One of the most important factors in determining your credit score is called your credit utilization ratio. This is the percentage of your available credit limit that you are using. For example, if your limit is $1,000 and your balance is $300, your utilization is 30 percent.
In my work helping people rebuild their credit, I’ve seen that utilization is often the fastest factor to change. Keeping balances under 30 percent will keep you safe, but if you want to move your score up more quickly, the sweet spot is 10 percent or less.
Lenders read that as a sign you’re using credit wisely without relying too heavily on it. A low utilization rate shows them that you don’t need to use your credit cards to pay for your living expenses. This tells them that you are unlikely to pay a bill late or max out your credit cards and get yourself into financial trouble.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about your utilization rate, how to lower it, and what you can do to leverage the rules of credit scoring in your favor.
Credit card utilization is the percentage of your available credit limit that you’re currently using. It makes up about 30% of your FICO score, making it the second most powerful factor in determining how quickly your score improves.
Your utilization rate (or ratio) is calculated by dividing your balance by your credit limit. For example, if you have a $1,000 limit and carry a $250 balance, your utilization is 25%.
Key takeaway: Utilization is your credit card balance divided by your limit. Keeping it low has a major and positive impact on your score.
You should keep your credit card balances under 30% of your limit, and you’ll see your credit score climb even faster if your balances are always under 10% of your limit.
Here’s why keeping a low utilization is important: It tells the lenders that you are in control of your finances and managing debt wisely. If you have a high utilization, the lenders will assume one or two things (or both): 1) you are struggling to pay your monthly expenses and turning to credit cards; and/or 2) you are buying things you don’t need and being irresponsible with your budget.
Essentially, your FICO score is an answer to this question: How likely is this borrower to be 30+ days late in the next 24 months? A low utilization communicates that you are low risk, which translates to a high score.
Here’s how utilization levels usually affect your credit:
Utilization
Impact on Your Score
What Lenders Think
<10%
Excellent
You borrow lightly and pay responsibly
<“30%
Good
You use credit, but not too much
<“50%
Risky
You may be leaning on credit too heavily
>51%+
Harmful
You are a high risk borrower
Key takeaway: Keep your utilization under 30%. If you want to rebuild credit faster, aim for 10% or less.
FAQ: Does using more than 30% of my credit card hurt my score?
Yes. High balances signal to lenders that you may be overextended. Even if you make your payments on time, the percentage of your limit in use matters. For example, a $1,000 balance on a $2,000 card (50% utilization) will likely cause your score to drop.
FAQ: Is it better to pay off credit cards in full or keep a balance?
It’s always better to pay off your credit cards in full rather than keeping a balance. Keeping a balance does not improve your score. Plus, you’ll pay interest rates on balances older than 30 days.
FAQ: How often should I pay my credit card to lower utilization?
Pay your balance before it is due, and any time it exceeds 30% of your limit (or 10% if you are aiming for a lower utilization rate to improve your score more quickly). This means that you might make multiple payments a month.
Credit card companies usually report your balance on your statement date, not your due date. That means if you make an extra payment before your statement closes, the balance that gets reported to the credit bureaus is smaller.
FAQ: Does credit utilization affect FICO and VantageScore the same way?
Yes, both FICO and VantageScore factor in utilization heavily. While the exact formulas differ, both scoring models weigh credit utilization as one of the top factors. High balances relative to your limit will hurt you in both systems, and low balances will help in both.
FAQ: Does each card’s utilization matter, or only total utilization?
Both your overall utilization and individual card utilization matter. Lenders and scoring models look at your total credit use across all cards, but they also look at whether you’re maxed out on any single card. A single card at 90% utilization can still drag your score down, even if your overall use is below 30%.
FAQ: Can high utilization on one card hurt my score even if others are low?
Yes, one maxed-out card can still lower your score, even if your overall utilization looks fine.
For example, if you have three cards with $1,000 limits and you owe $900 on one but nothing on the other two, your overall utilization is only 30%. But lenders still see that one card at 90% as risky behavior. You would be better off transferring some of your balance to the cards with $0 balance so the each card has a 30% utilization.
FAQ: How quickly does lowering credit utilization improve your score?
Your score can improve within a month once your lower balance is reported to the credit bureaus. Since utilization updates when lenders send data to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion (usually every 30 days), a big payment can have a quick effect. Many people see noticeable gains the very next billing cycle.
FAQ: What’s the fastest way to lower credit card utilization?
The fastest way is to pay down your balances before your statement closes. Other strategies include requesting a credit line increase, transferring part of a balance to another card, or spreading charges across multiple accounts. But nothing beats simply lowering your balances early.
Philip Tirone started his career as a mortgage broker more than 30 years ago and quickly realized something troubling: his clients were intentionally kept in the dark about how credit scores really work. Poor credit forces people to pay thousands more in interest, straining their budgets and making it even harder to stay current on future payments. That cycle of financial stress can last for years, even decades, while banks profit from late fees and high interest rates.
This realization shaped his mission: to pull back the curtain on credit scoring, teach people how to take control, and give them the tools to build lasting financial freedom. He authored 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score first as a book, later turning it into a free online credit-eduction course, which has now graduated more than 200,000 students.
Quick Definitions: Don’t confuse a credit repair course with a credit repair company.
Credit Repair Course
“Credit repair” in this context usually means “credit education” in the form of a course that teaches you how to manage your own credit.
You do the work on your own behalf.
You receive education in the form of tools, knowledge, and strategies.
The course is not regulated by the Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA).
Credit Repair Company
“Credit repair” in this context usually refers to a credit repair company.
The company does the work for you (e.g., disputes errors and negotiates with creditors and credit bureaus on your behalf).
Credit repair companies generally do not offer credit education.
Credit repair companies are regulated by the Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA). Per CROA, credit repair companies cannot charge in advance and must give you a written contract explaining your rights.
4 Key Things to Look for in a Credit Repair Course
Do-It-Yourself Skills: Teaches you to fix and build credit yourself so you can maintain it for life.
Clear Curriculum: Walks you step-by-step through disputes and adding new positive accounts.
Built-In Support: Offers Q&A, checklists, or a community to keep you accountable.
Real Proof: Shows genuine testimonials, before-and-after scores, or case studies.
1. Do-It-Yourself Skills: Lifetime access to the online credit- education portal.
2. Clear Curriculum: We’ll walk you through the exact seven steps for improving your credit. And if you have been through a bankruptcy or identity theft, we’ll also give you free legal support in reviewing your credit report and identifying errors.
3. Built-in-Support: Join our monthly Q&A calls where you can ask all your credit questions. Plus, you’ll be invited to our Facebook community.
When I first started teaching people how to rebuild credit nearly 30 years ago, online credit repair courses didn’t exist. If you wanted a better score, you had three options: read books and figure it out yourself, learn through trial and error, or hire a company to send dispute letters on your behalf.
That’s why I created 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, a free online credit education course built from decades of reviewing credit reports, working with lenders, and coaching people who wanted access to a credit repair course. I know what it takes to get results because I’ve seen the data and the transformations firsthand.
(Students who follow the rules in 7 Steps can see their scores increase to 720 a year or two after getting started!)
If you’re shopping for a credit repair course, here’s what really matters. The best courses give you clear, doable steps you can put into action right away. For instance, they should teach you how to spot and fix harmful errors on your credit report and build good credit around older, bad credit.
A good course won’t promise instant results or claim it can erase legitimate negative marks, because that’s not how credit works. Instead, it will teach you the rules of credit scoring so you can start improving your score now and keep it strong in the future. Credit is a lifelong tool, so the better a credit repair course educates you and builds your understanding, the more your credit will work in your favor … now, and in the years to come.
Enroll for free in our credit-education course, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score.
Below you’ll find a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions about credit repair courses, each with a short, fact-backed answer you can trust. These are based on research from trusted sources like the CFPB, FTC, Urban Institute, New York Fed, and FINRA, along with years of hands-on experience helping 200,000+ people rebuild their credit.
A credit repair course is an educational program that teaches you how to improve your credit score yourself. While many people use the term “credit repair course,” most reputable programs are actually credit education courses.
A credit education course shows you how to:
Read and understand your credit report (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau)
Spot and dispute errors
Build positive credit history that lenders want to see
Credit repair, by contrast, is a service regulated under the Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA). CROA applies to companies that take money to work on your credit for you, such as sending dispute letters to creditors or credit bureaus on your behalf.
Credit education courses are not regulated by CROA because they don’t perform the work for you. Instead, they give you the knowledge, tools, and step-by-step strategies so you can take control of your own credit, and keep that control long term.
For clarity, this article will use the term “credit repair course” since that’s what most people search for, but it’s important to understand that credit repair services and credit education courses are different industries with different rules.
Takeaway: A true credit repair course teaches you how to fix and build your credit yourself, while a credit repair company does it for you. The right course gives you skills that last a lifetime.
FAQ : What should I look for in a credit repair course?
A good credit repair course gives you a clear, step-by-step process for fixing errors on your credit report and building new positive credit so your score improves and stays strong.
Avoid any course that promises overnight results or the removal of legitimate negative marks. The best programs:
Teach you how to repair and build credit yourself, giving you skills you can use for life.
Offer a clear curriculum covering both disputing errors and adding positive accounts. Provide built-in support such as Q&A sessions, checklists, or community groups to keep you on track.
Show real proof of success through testimonials, before-and-after scores, or case studies.
When you follow a legitimate, well-structured plan, it’s realistic to raise your score to 720 within 12 to 24 months after a financial setback.
Listen to this testimonial from a 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score graduate! Travis filed bankruptcy and two years later, bought a brand new home for his family with a 3.5% interest rate. Enroll in our free credit education course, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score.
Key takeaway: Choose a course that teaches you the process, supports you along the way, and backs up its claims with real results.
FAQ : What does a credit repair course teach that I cannot do myself for free?
A credit repair course (whether free or paid) teaches you the same information you can learn on your own, but organizes and simplifies the information so you get faster, more reliable results. It may also include accountability systems, checklists, and coaching on how to interpret responses and choose your next move.
For instance, our free credit-education course, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, includes monthly Q&A sessions where you can ask a credit expert your specific questions about your credit report and credit score.
What You Can Do Yourself for Free
What a Quality Course Adds
Pull your credit reports for free. Federal law gives you free reports, and the bureaus now offer free weekly online reports through AnnualCreditReport.com (Consumer Advice).
A proven sequence so you complete steps in the right order, from pulling reports and gathering documentation to disputing errors and building new credit.
Use the CFPB’s step-by-step instructions to dispute errors with both the credit bureaus and the company that furnished the information. Guidance includes what to include and how timelines work (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau).
Clear checklists, timelines, and reminders so you don’t stall between steps.
Send disputes with free DIY letter templates provided by the CFPB, including downloadable forms you can customize.
Accountability through regular milestones, progress tracking, and staying on task.
For people who have been through a bankruptcy or identity theft, our credit-education course, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, includes free help in disputing errors from a law firm.
Know your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. You have the right to see what is in your file and have errors corrected (Federal Trade Commission).
Templates plus coaching on how to tailor them and what evidence to attach.
Reality check on “removing” negatives. Accurate and timely negative information generally cannot be removed. Be skeptical of anyone who promises otherwise.
Guardrails against bad advice, focusing on legal rights, documentation, and sustainable habits that raise scores over time.
Key takeaway: While you can repair your credit by doing research on your own, a quality course (free or paid) gives you structure, expert feedback, and accountability that make success more likely.
FAQ : Is a credit repair course better than hiring a credit repair company?
A credit repair course is often the better choice because it teaches you how to repair and build your credit yourself, gives you lasting skills, keeps you in control, and is frequently free. Credit repair companies are sometimes unethical, making promises they can’t keep or disputing accurate information illegally. That said, hiring an ethical credit repair company can make sense for some people if they need quick improvements.
7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score is a free credit-education program that provides long-term results. Students who follow the rules as outlined can see their scores improve to 720 in as little as 12 to 24 months. And because the program includes a free credit report review and legal support for students who have been through a bankruptcy or identity theft, some students see their scores jump 50 to 150 points in the first three months.
Key takeaway: If you want control, lasting results, and proven strategies without paying high fees, a credit repair course, especially one like 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, is usually the smartest choice.
FAQ : How fast can a credit repair course improve my score?
It depends on your starting point, but most people who enroll in reputable credit repair courses and follow the instructions closely see measurable gains in 3 to 6 months. That’s because payment history and credit utilization make up 65% of your FICO® score, and both can be improved fairly quickly.
Example: Lowering your utilization from 70% to under 30% could raise your score dozens of points in a single month, according to FICO. Pair that with on-time payments and one or two new positive accounts, and you can see a 50- to 150-point jump in a matter of months.
Key takeaway: With the right actions, credit scores can improve within 3 to 6 months, and following a program like 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score can put a 720 credit score within reach in as little as 12 to 24 months.
FAQ : What should I expect from a reputable credit repair course?
A reputable credit repair course gets straight to the point, offering both education and action steps based on a thorough analysis of the rules of credit scoring. Expect a clear curriculum that includes:
The dispute process for correcting errors on your credit report
An explanation of high-priority errors and low-priority errors so that you focus your time on errors that matter
Credit utilization strategies for lowering credit card balances and raising your score
Budgeting basics so you stay out of debt while simultaneously improving your credit score
Myth-busting of common credit misconceptions
Guidance on when and how to open new credit accounts
Our free 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score course walks you through each of these areas step-by-step and includes monthly Q&A calls where you can get answers to your specific credit questions.
Key takeaway: The best courses simplify credit scoring rules into a clear plan of action, so you know exactly what to do and when to do it for the biggest impact.
Yes, credit repair courses are both safe and legal, assuming you choose a reputable one that focuses on education instead of trying to game the system..
A legitimate course will teach you how credit scoring works and give you clear, step-by-step guidance you can follow yourself. It will never claim it can remove every negative mark from your credit report, especially if that information is accurate. Claims like that are a red flag and often signal a scam.
Be cautious of any program that skips the “why” behind its advice. Without understanding the rules of credit scoring, you could accidentally hurt your score by closing the wrong account, applying for too much new credit at once, or disputing legitimate information.
Key takeaway: Safe, legal credit repair courses educate you, set realistic expectations, and show you how to raise your score without risky or illegal moves.
FAQ : What is the difference between a credit repair course and credit counseling?
Credit counseling helps you budget and manage debt, while credit repair courses help you improve your credit score.
Credit counseling agencies are approved and overseen by the U.S. Trustee Program (U.S. Department of Justice, 2025), which is part of the Department of Justice. Their credit counseling courses focus on budgeting and debt management, and they help people decide whether they want to file bankruptcy. These courses can be helpful if your main challenge is managing monthly expenses and negotiating with creditors. (Click below to enroll in Evergreen Financial Counseling’s credit counseling course.)
A credit repair course, on the other hand, focuses on your credit reports and scores. It teaches you how to correct errors, add positive accounts, and strategically manage credit so your score improves. (We recommend the free credit education course 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score.)
Key takeaway: Credit counseling helps you manage debt; a credit repair course helps you improve your credit score.
FAQ : How long will it take me to raise my credit score to 720 if I take a credit repair course?
Most people who follow a reputable credit repair course can reach a 720 credit score in about 12 to 24 months, depending on their starting point and how consistently they follow the plan. Here’s what research and expert sources say:
According to Bankrate (2025), the time it takes to rebuild your score varies based on the reasons your score is low, but on-time payments and responsible credit use typically start producing results in months, with larger improvements in a year or two.
WalletHub (2024) notes that while some score gains (like a few points) can happen in weeks, significant improvements usually take months or even years. Reaching fair credit may take 12–18 months for many with damaged histories.
A recent Investopedia article (June 2025) explains that the impact of negative credit items diminishes over time, and consistent positive behaviors, like on-time payments, can accelerate recovery from missed payments or worse.
At 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, we expect our students to reach a 720 credit score after following the program for 12 to 24 months.
Key takeaway: With commitment and consistency, a well-designed credit repair course can support your journey to a 720 credit score in 12 to 24 months, while still delivering noticeable and meaningful improvements within the first few months.
FAQ : What results should I expect in the first 90 days of a credit repair course?
The size of the increase depends on your starting point, but you can safely expect a 10- to 50-point increase within the first 90 days of starting a reputable credit repair course. That said, you might see major jumps in your credit score if you significantly reduce credit utilization and remove harmful errors.
According to FICO (2025), payment history and credit utilization together account for about 65% of your FICO® score, so improvements in these areas can have a fast impact. For example:
Lowering utilization from over 50% to under 30% can raise your score within the next reporting cycle (FICO, 2025).
Correcting inaccurate negatives can produce immediate score changes once the bureaus update your file.
Adding a new positive trade line, like a secured card or credit-builder loan, can start contributing to your score after your first on-time payment.
Clients who consistently follow a structured plan often see measurable improvements in as little as three months, enough to qualify for better credit products even before hitting their long-term goal.
In 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, many students see their first significant progress update within 90 days, which builds momentum for the 12–24 month path to a 720 score.
Key takeaway: If you start with high utilization or clear report errors, you could see big score gains in the first 90 days, but results vary based on your starting point and how quickly you act.
FAQ : Will taking a credit repair course help me qualify for a mortgage in 12 months?
Yes, following a reputable credit repair course can often help you qualify for a mortgage within 12 months, especially if you are within 60 to 100 points of the lending minimum. Typical score requirements by loan type:
FHA loans generally require a minimum credit score of 580 to qualify for the standard 3.5% down payment program; borrowers with scores between 500 and 579 can still qualify but with a larger down payment (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2025).
USDA loans typically require a minimum credit score of 640 for streamlined processing, although some lenders may approve lower scores with additional documentation (U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2025).
Conventional loans typically require a minimum score of 620, with the best interest rates available at 720+.
Students who follow the 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score generally reach a 720 credit score in 12 to 24 months.
Enroll for free in our credit-education course, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score.
Key takeaway: If you’re not far from the score threshold, a structured credit repair course can realistically help you become mortgage-ready within a year.
FAQ : Will a credit repair course help me qualify for a first apartment or lower insurance?
Yes, improving your credit through a reputable credit repair course can make it easier to qualify for a rental and may help lower your insurance premiums. Many landlords check your credit score when deciding whether to rent to you, and insurers in most states use credit-based insurance scores to set premiums. Raising your score can expand your housing options and reduce long-term costs.
Landlords often check credit reports during rental screening to assess payment history and debt management. While there’s no universal minimum score, many property managers prefer applicants with scores of 620 or higher. In a RentRedi-Bigger Pockets survey of landlords, nearly 80% of landlords report verifying credit scores as part of their tenant screening process, making credit health a key factor in rental approval.
In many states, insurers use credit-based insurance scores to set auto and homeowners insurance rates. The Urban Institute reports that better credit is often linked to lower premiums, meaning an improved score can directly save you money. One student found that drivers with very poor credit pay approximately $4,581 more annually than those with exceptional credit, an increase of over 270% (The Zebra, 2025).
Key takeaway: A higher credit score can improve your chances of getting approved for an apartment and may reduce your insurance costs.
FAQ : Can a credit repair course remove accurate negatives from my reports?
Some companies may claim they can remove accurate negative items from your credit report, but ethical, reputable credit repair courses will never tell you they can remove accurate negative information. No one can legally erase accurate, timely negative information from your credit report (Federal Trade Commission, 2025).
If an organization urges you to dispute items you know are accurate, this is a red flag that you are not working with an ethical company. In fact, credit bureaus are only required to remove negative information that is inaccurate or has aged beyond its reporting limit (usually 7 years, or 10 years for bankruptcies).
Creditors and collections agencies must verify negative information when challenged, but accurate entries must stay until the legal time limit is reached (15 U.S. Code § 1679c).
FAQ : What percentage of people are “credit invisible,” and how does a course help them start?
According to 2025 data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, only 2.7% of U.S. adults (approximately 7 million people) are truly “credit invisible,” meaning they have no credit history with the major credit bureaus.
While being a cash-only citizen might sound responsible, it’s a serious problem. Without a credit history, lenders have no way to measure your reliability, so they assume the worst. That means you’ll often face higher interest rates, bigger deposits for utilities or rentals, and limited access to credit in the first place.
Some people avoid credit entirely to sidestep debt, but that can backfire. A reputable credit repair (or credit education) course can teach you how to build credit without going into debt by using secured cards, credit-builder loans, or on-time reporting of bills you’re already paying. This approach gives you the benefits of a strong credit profile while keeping your financial life debt-free.
Key takeaway: Being credit invisible doesn’t protect you; it costs you money. Building credit without going into debt is the safer, smarter option.
FAQ : Is there proof that coaching or education improves credit outcomes?
Yes, multiple rigorous studies show that financial coaching and education can lead to meaningful improvements in credit scores and behaviors.
A randomized controlled study from the American Economic Association found that participants who received financial coaching experienced an average 44-point increase in credit scores, raised the likelihood of being rated “good” by 10 percentage points, and improved access to credit and car loan rates.
A review by the Center for Financial Security found coaching clients gained an average of 21 credit score points, alongside reduced debt and improved financial behaviors.
Students in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Scoreincrease their scores to 720 within 12 to 24 months when they follow the steps as outlined.
Key takeaway: Evidence from randomized trials and program evaluations demonstrates that financial coaching and education are powerful tools for improving credit outcomes.
FAQ : What score factors do credit repair courses focus on first?
A credit repair course should focus on what will have the fastest impact: removing errors, lowering utilization, ensuring on-time payments, and building a solid credit history with strategic new accounts.
Here are the five key factors that shape your credit score, according to FICO:
Factor
Weight
Why It Matters
Payment History
35%
Credit bureaus assign you a score based on the answer to this question: What is the likelihood that this borrower will be 30+ days late on a bill in the next two years? Your payment history is the biggest indicator in how often you will pay your bills on time in the future.
Amounts Owed (Utilization)
30%
The less you owe as a percentage of the limit (or original loan amount), the more financially stable you are. By contrast, the higher your credit card balances, the more financial strain the credit bureaus assume you are under. Therefore, lowering your credit balances to below 30% (ideally to 10%) can lead to big jumps in your credit score. Likewise, when loans such as auto or mortgage accounts are new, you have less equity built up, so lenders view you as having less to lose if you walk away.
Length of Credit History
15%
This factor measures how long your accounts have been open and how recently they’ve been active. A longer history of responsible credit use works in your favor. Opening new accounts will temporarily reduce your average account age, but over time those accounts age into your history, boosting this portion of your score.
Credit Mix
10%
Lenders want to see that you can manage different types of credit, such as revolving accounts (credit cards) and installment loans (auto, mortgage, personal loans). A healthy mix signals that you can handle varied financial obligations, which can help improve your score over time.
New Credit (Inquiries)
10%
Every time you apply for new credit, a hard inquiry is added to your report, which can temporarily lower your score. Too many inquiries in a short period can signal financial instability to lenders. Grouping necessary applications within a short time frame (such as when you’re shopping for a car or mortgage) can minimize the impact.
FAQ : What will a credit repair course tell me to do if my utilization is high?
If your credit utilization is high, a credit repair course will teach you how to lower your credit card balances below 30%, and if you can, 10%. That’s where you’ll start to see the biggest jumps in your score.
There are a few ways to accomplish this:
Pay down balances as much as you can. A credit repair course will teach you various strategies, such as paying off the higher-interest credit cards first, or starting with those with the smallest balance.
Call your card issuers and ask for a credit limit increase.
Move balances to other cards, or even consider a short-term personal loan from a friend, family member, or bank. This strategy might be a good one to employ if you are in immediate need of a higher credit score.
Key takeaway: High utilization drags your score down more than almost anything else—tackle it first and watch what happens.
FAQ : Will a credit repair course tell me which accounts to open and when?
Yes, a good course will guide you through which types of new accounts to open and when, using best practices for building your credit score quickly. This might include a mixture of secured credit cards, authorized user accounts, and credit rebuilder accounts.
Unlike some courses that suggest spacing out new credit applications, 7 Steps recommends opening all the accounts you need right away. Here’s why: 15% of your credit score comes from the average age of your accounts. Every time you open a new account, that average age drops. If you spread out applications over months or years, you’ll keep resetting the clock and hurting your score each time.
By opening all accounts at once, your score will take an initial dip, but then those accounts will start aging together. Over time, your average account age will grow steadily, which benefits your score in the long run.
Enroll for free in our credit-education course, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score.
Key takeaway: The right course will teach you about what types of accounts will best help your credit score. It will also guide you on the best timing for opening these accounts.
FAQ : Will a credit repair course focus on my FICO or VantageScore?
A credit repair course should focus on your FICO score, because about 90% of top lenders use FICO when evaluating applications (FICO, 2025). This is the score mortgage lenders, auto lenders, and most credit card issuers rely on to make approval and rate decisions.
Here’s where it gets confusing: the score you see when you check it yourself is often not the same one a lender will use. Services like Credit Karma, Chase Credit Score, Credit Sesame, and Credit Hero Score show you a VantageScore 3.0, which is designed for consumers, not lenders. These scores can be useful for tracking your progress, but they can be dozens of points higher or lower than the FICO version a lender pulls.
That doesn’t mean VantageScore is irrelevant. Its newer 4.0 model incorporates alternative data such as rent and utility payments, which could help an estimated 5 million more borrowers qualify for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgages. However, until lenders adopt it more widely, improving your FICO score will give you the biggest advantage.
Key takeaway: A good credit repair course will train you to boost your FICO score first, while using a consumer score like Credit Hero to monitor progress. This ensures you’re improving the same score lenders use to decide approvals and interest rates.
FAQ : How often should I check my credit reports during a course?
Check your credit reports monthly during active dispute or repair phases, then shift to quarterly checks once stabilized. This aligns with CFPB guidance to review your credit report at least annually and more often when important financial actions are underway (The Week, 2025; Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 2025).
Key takeaway: Check monthly during action phases, then quarterly, then at least once a year to stay on top of your report.
FAQ : Can a credit repair course help after bankruptcy?
Yes, a credit repair course can be one of the fastest ways to rebuild your credit after bankruptcy because it gives you a structured plan for taking advantage of the fresh start bankruptcy provides.
It’s often easier to repair credit after bankruptcy than while you’re still in debt. This is because you have the breathing room to pay bills on time, avoid new delinquencies, and follow proven strategies for raising your score.
A good credit repair course will show you exactly how to:
Establish new positive payment history right away (the single biggest factor in your score).
Open the right types of accounts to create a healthy credit mix without falling back into unmanageable debt.
Use credit strategically so you get maximum score gains in the first 12–24 months.
Key takeaway: Bankruptcy resets your financial future and makes it possible to rebuild your credit score much sooner than if you continue to stay in debt and struggle to pay your bills.
FAQ : Do credit repair courses work if I have late payments right now?
Yes, but the results will be slower if you’re still missing payments. A credit repair course can help you dispute errors, lower your utilization rate, and open new accounts strategically, but your score will continue to drop as long as late payments keep hitting your report.
Payment history makes up about 35% of your FICO score, so the most important step is to stop the damage by paying at least the minimums on time going forward. Once you stop making late payments, you will be able to improve your score much faster.
Key takeaway: Consistent on-time payments are the foundation for meaningful score improvement, so credit repair courses work best when you’ve stopped making late payments.
FAQ : Can a credit repair course help with identity theft clean-up?
Yes, a good credit repair course can walk you through the process of removing fraudulent accounts and restoring your credit history after identity theft. Many courses walk you step-by-step through removing fraudulent accounts and restoring your credit history. This often includes placing fraud alerts or credit freezes, filing disputes with the credit bureaus, and working directly with creditors to remove accounts that aren’t yours.
Once the fraudulent information is deleted, the best courses also guide you in rebuilding positive credit by opening new accounts strategically, keeping utilization low, and paying on time to restore your score.
The free credit-education course7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score even offers free legal representation to people recovering from identity theft and struggling to get their credit report corrected.
Key takeaway: A structured credit repair course gives you a clear recovery plan from stopping further fraud to cleaning up your report and rebuilding strong credit for the future.
FAQ : Do buy-now-pay-later accounts help or hurt while I am in a credit repair course?
Buy-now-pay-later options like Klarna, Affirm, or Afterpay can hurt your credit repair efforts more than help, depending on how they are managed. On-time buy-now-pay-later (BNPL)loanstypically don’t help your credit score as of August 2025 because most BNPL plans aren’t reported to the credit bureaus. That means you miss out on building positive credit history.
But missed BNPL payments can damage your credit. Many providers report late payments or send delinquent accounts to collections, which appear on your credit report and drop your score.
All that said, FICO is expected to launch a new model that includes BNPL data. That means responsible users who pay on time may see benefits, while missed payments will carry real consequences.
Key takeaway: For now, BNPL won’t help you rebuild credit, but according to upcoming score changes, responsible use could help (or hurt if payments are missed).
FAQ : Should teens or young adults take a credit repair or “credit building” course?
Yes, teens and young adults should take a credit repair course because starting early gives them a serious head start. The lack of credit education in colleges and high schools leaves many young people unprepared for financial reality. A credit-building course can fill this gap and teach them how credit works, how to open accounts responsibly, and how to avoid costly mistakes like high utilization or missed payments. Building positive credit in the late teens or early twenties can make it easier to qualify for apartments, auto loans, and low-interest credit cards later on.
Without guidance, many young people fall prey to predatory marketing. While the Credit CARD Act of 2009 banned on-campus giveaways in exchange for signing up, students are still targeted off-campus or through online ads with offers that often carry high interest rates.
Beyond that, having a poor or nonexistent credit score can block life opportunities. For instance, without a credit history, young adults may struggle to rent on their own because landlords often check tenant credit. One survey found that close to 90% of landlords check credit scores when screening applications, and many require a score of 600–620 to rent (Urban Institute, 2022; TenantCloud, 2024).
Open accounts responsibly and keep utilization low
Make on-time payments every month (because payment history accounts for 35%-40% of FICO)
Spot and avoid predatory offers
Build a credit mix gradually and wisely
Understand how credit affects housing, loans, and financial independence
Key takeaway: Schools won’t teach your kids how credit works, and lenders are counting on that. A credit-building course can protect and empower teens and young adults, helping them avoid traps and enter adulthood financially confident.
Philip Tirone started his career as a mortgage broker more than 30 years ago and quickly realized something troubling: his clients were intentionally kept in the dark about how credit scores really work. Poor credit forces people to pay thousands more in interest, straining their budgets and making it even harder to stay current on future payments. That cycle of financial stress can last for years, even decades, while banks profit from late fees and high interest rates.
This realization shaped his mission: to pull back the curtain on credit scoring, teach people how to take control, and give them the tools to build lasting financial freedom. He authored 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score first as a book, later turning it into a free online credit-eduction course, which has now graduated more than 200,000 students
If you’re searching for free credit repair courses and tools, here’s the bottom line: You can repair your credit for free, but most services advertising “free credit repair” are either incomplete, misleading, or come with strings attached. The most effective credit repair often comes from understanding how credit works, fixing legitimate errors on your report, and rebuilding positive credit over time. In this article, I’ll break down what to watch for, how to fix your credit the right way, and where to get real support without getting scammed.
I’ve spent over two decades helping people recover from financial setbacks. As the creator of 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, I’ve worked with thousands of people after bankruptcy, collections, and credit disasters … and I’ve seen firsthand what works and what wastes your time.
What is free credit repair, really?
When people talk about “free credit repair,” they usually mean one of two things:
Disputing inaccurate items on your credit report at no cost
Using free tools or credit repair courses to learn how credit works and how to rebuild your score
That sounds simple enough. But here’s the catch: A lot of companies use “free credit repair” as a sales hook. They offer a free consultation or a few automated disputes, then pressure you into paying for subscriptions, loans, or shady services. The real value comes when you understand your credit and take action on your own or with the help of a nonprofit.
How can I repair my credit for free?
Here are the steps to take if you want to start repairing your credit without paying anyone:
Get educated. Look for a credit education program that shows you how to navigate credit reports, use new accounts strategically, and avoid common mistakes. One popular option is 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, a nonprofit-backed course designed for people rebuilding after financial setbacks.
Enrollment in this credit-education course is free, and if you’ve been through a bankruptcy or identity theft, you’ll also get free support from an attorney. I created this program specifically for people who’ve been through tough financial situations like bankruptcy. I designed it to be simple, practical, and based on how credit scoring really works.
Pull your credit reports. Go to www.AnnualCreditReport.com and request your reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Check for late payments, collections, duplicate accounts, or unfamiliar debts
Dispute real errors. If you find something incorrect, file a dispute with the credit bureau reporting it. The bureau must investigate within 30 days. If they can’t verify it, the item must be removed.If you’ve been through a bankruptcy or identity theft, you can get free legal support by joining 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score.
Lower your credit utilization. Pay down credit card balances so you’re using less than 30% of your available credit. Under 10% is even better.
Make every payment on time. Payment history is the biggest factor in your credit score. Set up autopay or reminders to avoid late payments
Add positive credit. If you don’t have at least three credit cards and one installment account in good standing, consider:
The Credit Rebuilder Program is not a free credit repair service, but it does offer a low-cost option to those who want to improve their credit quickly.
What should I watch out for in “free” credit repair courses, offers, and tools?
Be skeptical of any service that:
Promises to remove accurate negative items
Pushes loans or debt settlement programs
Uses vague language about how they fix your credit
Warning: Some companies file mass disputes on everything negative in your report, hoping something sticks. This can backfire. If credit bureaus see a pattern of frivolous disputes, they can flag your report. That makes future disputes harder, even if they’re valid.
I’ve reviewed hundreds of credit repair companies over the years. Some play by the rules, but many don’t. If you’re not sure who to trust, start with a credit education program that can walk you through the legal process in plain English and connect you with legal help if your rights are being violated.
Check out the FAQs below to see if free credit repair is right for your situation.
Philip Tirone is the founder of 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score and the former chairman of the Board of Directors of Evergreen Financial Counseling, a nonprofit approved by the Department of Justice to provide bankruptcy credit counseling courses. He has spent three decades helping people rebuild their credit scores after a bankruptcy.
Sometimes, but most of the time, a company that offers credit repair for free is baiting you. That said, there are free credit-education options, and these often work just as well (if not better) than credit repair. It helps to understand the difference.’
Credit repair usually refers to services that file disputes with credit bureaus to try and remove negative items from your report. Some of these services are legitimate, especially when they help correct real mistakes. (And real mistakes happen often: About 34% of consumers have found at least one error on their credit reports, according to a study by the Federal Trade Commission.)
That said, a lot of companies take advantage of the term “credit repair.” They might charge upfront fees or sign you up for monthly subscriptions, and many rely on aggressive or questionable tactics. Even the ones that advertise free services often circle back with hidden charges, upsells, or pressure to join a debt settlement program.
Credit education, on the other hand, teaches you how credit works, how to manage it, and how to rebuild it in ways that reflect well over time, like lowering your utilization, opening the right accounts, and making consistent payments. Free courses do exist, including 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, offered by Evergreen Financial Counseling.You can enroll for free here.
Here’s a breakdown of credit repair vs. credit education
Credit Repair
Credit Education
Goal
Removes negative items from your credit report
Improves long-term financial habits and credit use
Method
Files disputes on your behalf
Teaches you how credit works and how to rebuild it
FAQ: What can I realistically expect from free credit repair?
Assuming the credit repair organization is ethical, you can expect steady, meaningful progress that will vary based on where your credit score starts. If the organization is unethical, you can expect a temporary score increase followed by a drop, and you may even lose the ability to get real errors investigated in the future.
Here’s what should happen:
An ethical credit repair service will look at your credit reports, identify actual mistakes, and help you dispute them under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). That law gives you the right to an accurate credit report, and it requires credit bureaus to investigate any item you challenge within 30 days.
The organization should follow up with the credit bureaus after that 30-day window. If the bureau can’t verify the information, the error must be removed.
If the credit bureau fails to remove an unverified or clearly incorrect item, the credit repair organization can take further action. In many cases, they can sue the credit bureau or introduce you to an attorney who will represent you. If you think your rights have been violated, join 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score for free. We will introduce you to a law firm that will represent you free of charge in FCRA disputes.
On the other hand, a shady credit repair organization will dispute everything negative on your report, accurate or not.
At first, this type of credit repair might seem like it’s working. Your score could go up when those accounts temporarily disappear during the investigation period. But once the credit bureaus verify that the information is accurate, the disputed items will come right back, and your score will return to where it started.
Even worse, if the credit bureaus notice a pattern of frivolous or dishonest disputes, they can flag your report, which means future disputes, even the valid ones, might not be investigated unless you provide extra documentation. In some cases, they may refuse to review the dispute altogether.
A woman I worked with saw her score jump 80 points after a company removed several negative but accurate items. A month later, those derogatory marks came back, her score dropped again, and her file was flagged for frivolous disputes. That flag made it harder for her to get real mistakes corrected later on. We enrolled her in our free credit-education course, which walked her through the steps to rebuild her credit the right way, without shady tactics or shortcuts. Her score eventually rebounded, but it took much longer than it should have.
In other words, don’t try to game the system. Use a legitimate credit repair organization, or, better yet, enroll in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, a free credit education course. If you have been through a bankruptcy or have experienced identity theft, this credit-education course includes a free review of your credit report.
FAQ: How do I know if a free credit repair service is legitimate?
Start by checking how they talk about results. A legitimate credit repair service will never promise to erase accurate negative information. They’ll be upfront about what’s possible, explain how disputes work under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and walk you through your rights.
You’ll also want to check their reviews, but dig a little deeper than star ratings. Look for detailed reviews that mention specific outcomes, timelines, or support experiences. Be cautious if every review sounds the same, was posted within a short window of time, or is overly vague (e.g., “This company is amazing!” with no context). You can also check for complaints through the Better Business Bureau or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s public database.
There are a lot of companies out there claiming to offer credit repair, but not all of them play by the rules. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns consumers to steer clear of services that:
Charge upfront before doing any work
Pressure you to sign up immediately
Guarantee they can remove all negative marks
Fail to explain your rights
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has received over 100,000 complaints related to credit repair services. In one multi-state investigation, the FTC shut down a credit repair operation that illegally collected over $213 million from consumers using false promises.
If you’re looking for a safer, longer-lasting option, credit education is often a better route. 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score is a free credit-education program that teaches you how credit really works and how to rebuild it legally and effectively. It’s helped hundreds of thousands of people raise their scores after bankruptcy, collections, or repossessions, without shady tactics or fees.
Comparison: Shady vs. Ethical vs. Credit Education
Shady Credit Repair
Ethical Credit Repair
7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score
Cost
Hidden fees or upfront charges
Upfront charges or pay-after-results
Free
Dispute Strategy
Disputes everything, even accurate info
Disputes only errors or unverifiable info
Focuses on building new positive credit, teaches you how to dispute errors, and offers a free credit report review for people who’ve been through bankruptcy or experienced identity theft
FAQ: What’s the difference between free credit repair and paid credit repair?
Free credit repair focuses on education and long-term solutions. It teaches people how to read their credit reports, fix real errors, and build strong credit habits. Paid credit repair usually means a company files disputes on your behalf, often without teaching you anything about how credit works.
Free credit repair is typically offered by nonprofits or law firms, especially to people recovering from bankruptcy or identity theft. For example, Evergreen Financial Counseling’s program, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, helps people rebuild their credit from the ground up and includes access to a law firm that assists with removing valid errors from credit reports at no cost. These programs are designed to give people the tools they need to manage their credit confidently over the long term.
Paid credit repair services, on the other hand, often charge monthly fees—usually between $50 and $130—to send disputes to credit bureaus. While some companies follow the law and help challenge actual mistakes, many take a one-size-fits-all approach and dispute every negative item, even if it’s accurate. That kind of strategy can backfire by triggering fraud flags with the credit bureaus, making it harder to correct real problems later on.
Another downside of paid repair services is that they rarely explain the “why” behind your score. They might help remove a few items, but if you don’t know how credit scoring works, you’re more likely to fall into the same patterns that hurt your score in the first place. Without education, people often pay for results that don’t last.
FAQ: What’s the catch with “free” credit repair ads I see online?
When you see ads offering “free” credit repair, there’s often something going on behind the scenes. Some companies might give you a couple of free dispute letters or a basic credit report review, but that’s really a way to get your contact information. From there, you might get upsold into a monthly subscription, pushed toward pricey add-on services, or passed along to a partner company that wants to sell you something else.
Here’s what to watch out for:
It may be a lead-generation trap. Many of these ads exist to collect your data. The company running the ad might not even be the one offering the service. Instead, they sell your name, phone number, and email to credit repair companies, lenders, or debt settlement firms.
You may get hit with upsells. A student of ours once responded to a “free credit repair” ad and got a phone call the next day. The rep told him they could remove all his negative items for $129 a month. It sounded like a magic fix, so he signed up. Six months later, his score hadn’t changed, and every time he called to ask why, he was told that he needed to be patient. Turns out they were sending generic dispute letters and not really doing much else.
He enrolled in the Credit Rebuilder Program, and took advantage of free access to 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score. Once he understood how credit really works, and what actions make a difference, things started to turn around. He hit a 720 credit score 11 months later.
Read the fine print. Some companies advertise free services but hide important details in the terms and conditions, like cancellation fees, automatic renewals, or limits on what the free version actually includes.
If you’re serious about rebuilding your credit, start with a trusted nonprofit or a proven educational program. Make sure you know exactly what you’re signing up for, and don’t give out your personal information unless you trust the source.
FAQ: Is there a government program for free credit repair?
No, the government does not offer a dedicated program for credit repair, but the government does require that you be given a free copy of all three of your credit reports annually through www.annualcreditreport.com. From there, you can enroll in free credit-improvement courses offered by non-profits, such as Evergreen Financial Counseling’s 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score.
Evergreen is approved by the Department of Justice to issue credit counseling certificates and offers the credit-improvement program for free.
FAQ: What free credit repair resources actually work?
The best ones give you a process and explain the logic behind credit scoring so that you can apply these principles any time your credit needs a boost. If you want to see real progress, you need a step-by-step plan that shows you where to start, what to fix, and how to build new positive history that lasts.
7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score is one of the most effective free credit-improvement options. The program explains how credit works in plain English. It shows you how to read your credit report, spot real errors, open the right accounts, and understand what lenders and credit bureaus are looking for. You also learn how to keep your credit strong over time, not just temporarily.
Yes, credit repair can hurt your credit score. Some credit repair companies dispute every negative item on your report, even the ones that are accurate. This might get a few things temporarily removed, but once the credit bureaus verify the information, those items usually come right back, plus, your credit report will be flagged, making it even harder for you to remove legitimate errors.
We’ve seen people pay hundreds or thousands of dollars for this kind of service, only to end up in the same (or worse) position.
Even do-it-yourself credit repair can cause problems if you don’t understand how the system works. For example, paying an old collection might reset the clock on that debt, keeping it on your credit report longer than if you’d left it alone.
Now let’s talk about credit rebuilder programs. These aren’t technically credit repair, but they can help raise your score when payments are made on time. The catch? With many of these programs, missed payments get reported to the credit bureaus, which can actually hurt your score.
The Credit Rebuilder Program offered through Evergreen Financial Counseling, a nonprofit, is different. Only positive payments are added to your credit report, so it will not hurt your score. It’s one of the only paid credit-building tools out there that offers real progress without the risk.
Can It Hurt Your Score?
Why?
Solution
Credit repair companies
Yes
Disputing accurate items can lead to flagged reports and short-term removals only
Research and find ethical credit repair organizations.
DIY credit repair
Yes
Easy to make mistakes if you don’t understand the rules—like restarting the debt clock, mishandling disputes, or unknowingly validating a debt
Enroll in free credit-education programs, like 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, so that you understand the rules of credit reporting.
FAQ: Can I fix my credit myself without paying anyone?
Yes, you can. Fixing your credit on your own is often simpler than people think. In fact, learning how to fix your credit is an important part of your education because credit isn’t a one-time thing. Your credit score will impact your life for years to come, whether you’re buying a car, applying for a loan, renting an apartment, or even getting a job.
Here’s an overview of how to fix your credit score. For a deeper understanding, be sure to enroll in our free credit-education course, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score:
Dispute errors on your credit report.
Pull your credit reports for free from www.annualcreditreport.com. Then, check each report (Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian) for anything that doesn’t look right, such as accounts you don’t recognize, incorrect balances, or payments marked late that were actually on time.
If you find errors, file a dispute with the credit bureau that’s reporting the mistake. You can usually do this online. The bureau has 30 days to investigate. If the error isn’t corrected after the 30-day window, you can file a lawsuit under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, which is a federal law that protects your right to an accurate credit report. If you have been through a bankruptcy or are a victim of identity theft, be sure to enroll in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, our free credit-education course. We will introduce you to an attorney who can represent you at no cost.
Lower your credit utilization
Pay down credit card balances so you’re using less of your available credit. Try to keep your balances on each credit card below 30% of your limit, or even better, under 10%.
Make every payment on time
Payment history is the biggest factor in your credit score. Set up autopay or reminders so you never miss a due date.
Add positive credit
If you don’t have many accounts, or if you have been through a bankruptcy, consider opening a new credit card (you should have three credit cards that are in good standing that are reporting to the credit bureaus) or enrolling in the Credit Rebuilder Program, which reports on-time payments to all three bureaus.
If you want a program that walks you through all of this with simple explanations, checklists, and videos, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score is a free course that’s helped hundreds of thousands of people raise their scores. This is just a brief overview, but the course breaks it all down into manageable steps and gives you a plan you can actually stick to.
FAQ: What’s the best first step in repairing my credit for free?
The first step in repairing your credit is to pull your credit reports. You can get them for free at AnnualCreditReport.com, which is the government-approved site. Make sure you get all three: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
Once you have them, sit down and go through each report carefully. Look for things that don’t seem right. That could be an account you don’t recognize, a payment marked late that you know was on time, or a balance that looks way off. According to the Federal Trade Commission, about one in three people find at least one error on their credit reports.
If you find a mistake, you can file a dispute directly with the credit bureau that’s reporting the error. They’re legally required to investigate within 30 days. If they can’t verify the information, it has to come off your report.
If you’re not sure what to look for or how to handle the next steps, the 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score program can walk you through it. The credit-education course is free and built for people who want to take control of their credit, especially after a major financial meltdown like bankruptcy.
FAQ: How long does it take to repair credit using free tools?
If you follow the right steps, most people see meaningful improvement in 12 to 24 months, and sometimes even faster. Many people assume that it takes seven years to recover from bad credit, but that number refers to how long negative information stays on your credit report and not how long it takes to improve your score. The credit bureaus pay much more attention to recent behavior, so even if you have older late payments or collections, you can still see a significant increase if you start managing your credit differently today.
People who follow the 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score program as outlined raise their scores by an average of 70 to 100 points within the first year, based on internal survey data. Some see improvement in just a few months. Some see significant improvements in the first few months, especially if they improve their payment history and lower their credit utilization, which are the two biggest factors in your score, according to FICO.
7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score walks you through the process step by step, for free. It teaches you how to fix mistakes, rebuild positive credit history, and avoid the traps that keep people stuck. You can enroll for free here.
If you want to take control of your credit, there are three tools that work especially well together: 1) 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score gives you a step-by-step plan to raise your score; 2) AnnualCreditReport.com shows you everything lenders see so you can catch and correct errors; and 3) free credit score tools like Credit Karma and Credit Sesame help you track your progress week to week.
Each one serves a different purpose, and when used together, they can give you a full picture of your credit health, plus a plan to make it stronger.
AnnualCreditReport.com is the official site where you can access your full credit reports from all three bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax at no cost. This is where you go if you want to review your entire credit report for errors, late payments, collections, or anything that might be hurting your score.
Free credit score tools like Credit Karma or Credit Sesame let you check your scores regularly without hurting them. They’re helpful for tracking your progress and catching any big changes between full report checks, but be sure to read more about the different types of credit scores (such as Credit Karma, Credit Sesame, and Credit Hero) so you understand the limitations.
7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score is an education-based credit-improvement program designed to walk you through the credit rebuilding process. It teaches you how to understand and use your credit reports and scores to your advantage. Unlike the first two tools, which show you your credit, this one helps you improve it, step by step.
Tool
What It Does
Best For
AnnualCreditReport.com
Gives full credit reports from all 3 bureaus
Checking for errors, late payments, collections
7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score
Provides a full strategy to improve your credit
Understanding what to fix and how to build credit the right way
FAQ: How do I fix errors on my credit report without paying?
Join 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, which will give you step-by-step instructions for fixing errors on your credit report. If you’ve been through a bankruptcy or identity theft, you’ll also receive a free review of your credit report and legal support in getting errors removed.
What should I avoid when trying to fix my credit for free?
Mistake to Avoid
Why It Backfires
Paying old collections without a plan
Restarts the statute of limitations on collecting debt and can hurt your credit score
Disputing everything on your credit report
Makes you look unreliable to credit bureaus, weakening future legitimate disputes
Ignoring credit utilization
Using too much of your limit hurts your score—even with on-time payments
Closing old credit cards
Lowers your average credit age and increases your utilization ratio
Opening new credit cards one at a time
Each new card lowers the average age of your credit history, hurting your score repeatedly
Let’s talk about the last one, because it trips up a lot of people: a common mistake is spacing out your new credit card applications.
You need three credit cards in good standing that are reporting to the credit bureaus at all times. If you don’t have three, start by fixing any that are in bad standing. If that’s not possible, open new ones, and open them all at the same time.
Why? Because credit-scoring bureaus care about the average age of your accounts. Older is better. If you open one card now, another in six months, and another next year, your average age keeps getting pulled down. But if you open all three at once, your average age takes a single hit, and then starts aging up again right away.
Your score may dip a little at first due to all the new credit accounts, but opening the cards together sets you up for long-term success.
Yes, you can fix your credit if you are unemployed. But there’s a catch: You’ve got to be able to stay current on any existing bills, keep your balances low, and clean up any errors on your credit report.
Rebuilding your credit while unemployed is possible, but it can be tough. If you’re already behind on bills or dealing with high-interest debt, credit rebuilding might feel like trying to build a house on quicksand. Every month you’re late or maxed out, your score takes another hit.
That’s why, for many people, the first step to rebuilding credit isn’t opening a new account or paying down balances: It’s getting out of debt. When you eliminate the burden of unmanageable debt, it frees up your income, gives you a fresh start, and puts you in a position to use credit the way the bureaus reward: wisely and consistently.
FAQ: What’s the role of credit disputes in free credit repair?
Credit disputes are a legal right under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which gives you the power to challenge any information on your credit report that’s inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable. And that matters because payment history makes up the biggest part of your credit score. Even a single mistake in your record, like a payment marked late when it wasn’t, can drag down your score significantly.
A 2021 study from Consumer Reports found that more than a third of people have at least one mistake on their credit report. And from what we’ve seen, that number is even higher for people who’ve been through a bankruptcy. In fact, about 40% of our clients in that situation had an error that was actively hurting their score.
Most of those mistakes had to do with payment history, which happens to be the most important part of your credit score. So if you’re trying to rebuild, one of the smartest things you can do is check your credit report and make sure everything on it is actually right. If it’s not, disputing it could give your score a serious boost.
A successful dispute can raise your score fast. For instance, we worked with a client who had a 120-day late payment reported on a loan. The payment had actually been made on time, but it was misapplied by the loan servicer. After gathering her payment receipts and filing a dispute with the credit bureaus, the error was removed, and her score jumped by nearly 30 points in just one month.
If you’ve filed bankruptcy or been the victim of identity theft, our free credit-education program includes a free credit report review through a law firm that will handle those disputes for you. For everyone else, we walk you through how to do it yourself, legally and strategically, without falling into common traps.
Sometimes, but not the way most companies do it. Many credit repair services send out blanket disputes, which can backfire and hurt your chances of removing real errors later. A better approach is to verify the debt first, then try to negotiate a letter of deletion in exchange for payment. This works best if the collection is recent and the creditor agrees to remove it from your report. If the debt is old, paying it might actually hurt your score or restart the statute of limitations, so proceed carefully.
A letter of deletion is a written agreement from a creditor or collection agency stating that they will remove a specific account from your credit report. It’s different from a paid-in-full or settlement letter, which confirm payment but don’t remove the item from your credit report. A letter of deletion actually erases the account, which can boost your score if the item was hurting it. Not all creditors will agree to this, but it’s always worth asking for a letter of deletion before you pay off a collection account.
Yes, medical debt disputes can work, especially if the debt was sent to collections by mistake or if the billing was inaccurate. But they can also be tricky because healthcare providers often outsource to third-party collectors, and the paper trail gets messy fast. That’s why it’s so important to verify or validate the debt before jumping into a dispute.
Verification and validation are your first line of defense. When a debt collector contacts you, you have the right under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) to request proof that the debt is legitimate, that they have the right to collect it, and that the amount is accurate.
Validation usually refers to your request for documentation within 30 days of being contacted by a debt collector. They must provide evidence—like a billing statement or contract—that backs up the claim.
Verification is a broader term that covers confirming the details of the debt at any point, especially if something looks off or unfamiliar.
Medical bills are notorious for errors: duplicate charges, services you never received, or insurance payments that didn’t get applied. If you dispute a medical collection without first validating it, you risk wasting time or even having the dispute denied. But when you start by asking for validation, you put the burden on the collector to prove the debt is real and accurate.
One last tip: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recently announced that paid medical collections and any medical debt under $500 should no longer appear on your credit report. Still, outdated or incorrect debts might slip through. Disputes are one of the best tools you have to challenge them, especially when paired with documentation and follow-up.
Yes, it’s possible to remove a late payment from your credit report for free, especially if the late payment was a one-time mistake. The most effective tool is something called a goodwill letter. It’s a short message you send to the lender asking them to remove the late mark as a gesture of goodwill, often because you’ve otherwise had a good history with them.
Here’s a quick example of a goodwill request:
Dear [Creditor], I’ve been a customer for [X years], and I truly value the relationship. I recently had a late payment on [Date], which was due to [lost job, medical issue, etc.].
Now that things are back on track, I’m writing to ask if you would consider removing the late payment from my credit report. I’ve been current since and plan to continue that trend.
Thank you for your time and understanding.
How likely is this to work?
Sometimes it works on the first try
Sometimes it takes two or three letters
Sometimes they say no, but it’s still worth asking
Another option? Set up automatic payments to avoid this problem going forward.
No, most people can repair their credit without a lawyer, provided they have some general credit education. We have enrolled hundreds of thousands of people in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, which teaches the basic principles of credit improvement and shows people how to reach a 720 credit score in 12 to 24 months.
That said, there are situations where legal help is essential, like when your credit report includes errors caused by identity theft, or when your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) have been violated.
Let’s look at a few examples:
Situation
What Happened
Outcome
Was a Lawyer Needed?
Darren – Self-repair
Started with a 580 score. Didn’t trust paid services or lawyers. Used the free 7 Steps course, disputed errors, paid down balances, opened secured cards.
Score rose to 692 in 10 months and 721 in 13 months, all without a lawyer or credit repair company.
No
Erica – Identity theft
Had medical collections from identity theft. Tried disputing herself, but bureaus wouldn’t remove them. Enrolled in the program and was connected to a free attorney.
Accounts were deleted, and the lawyer pursued damages at no cost to her.
Yes
Desmond – Bankruptcy
Accounts included in his bankruptcy were being reported as late. Enrolled in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score and took advantage of the free credit report review with the law firm
Errors were deleted once the law firm sent dispute letters.
Not necessarily. Desmond might have had the same results, but letters from law firms can certainly be helpful!
In short, you don’t need a lawyer, but if your case involves fraud, harassment, or FCRA violations, legal support can make a huge difference, and you shouldn’t have to pay for it. Enroll in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, and we’ll connect you with a law firm that provides free credit report reviews and legal representation in qualifying cases.
FAQ: What if I’m dealing with identity theft? Can free tools help?
Yes, and you need to act quickly. If you enroll in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, you’ll get access to free legal support from a law firm that handles identity theft cases.
FAQ: Are nonprofit credit counselors helpful for credit repair?
They can be, especially when you understand what they do and don’t do. Most nonprofit credit counseling courses, including the one required during bankruptcy, aren’t designed to fix your credit directly. Instead, they focus on helping you understand your financial situation, explore your legal options, and build a realistic budget. That clarity alone can set the stage for better financial choices, but it won’t walk you through how to raise your credit score.
That said, Evergreen Financial Counseling enrolls its students into 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score 30 days after they complete their required debtor education course. This is where the real credit help begins. You’ll learn how to rebuild your credit from the ground up, avoid the most common post-bankruptcy mistakes, and use new credit lines to your advantage.
Evergreen is one of the only organizations that offers this kind of post-bankruptcy credit education at no cost.
FAQ: What if I have no credit? Can free credit repair still help?
Yes, free credit repair can absolutely help, especially if you have no credit. Having no credit history can be just as limiting as having bad credit because credit bureaus don’t give you the benefit of the doubt. If they don’t see anything in your file, they assume you’re a risk and assign you a low credit score.
We worked with someone who filed for bankruptcy and decided to walk away from credit completely. They became a cash-only citizen, thinking it would be smarter to wait ten years for the bankruptcy to fall off their credit report before trying again. No credit cards. No loans. Nothing.
When they finally joined 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, they realized they were starting from zero. No recent credit activity meant no score at all. And even though the bankruptcy had disappeared from their report, they still had to build a new credit history from scratch.
It took two full years to reach a 720 score.
Here’s the kicker: if they had started rebuilding right after the bankruptcy, it still would’ve taken about two years. But instead, they waited ten years before taking action. So that’s twelve years total to get back on track.
Here’s a better strategy if you’re starting from zero:
Start immediately. Regardless of whether you have horrible credit or no credit, you will need about 12 to 24 months to improve your credit score.
Open three credit cards. These can be traditional credit cards or unsecured credit cards. Use them at least once a month, and pay them off in full or keep the balance under 30 percent month-round. You can find a list of credit cards likely to approve people with poor credit here.
Get an installment account. This could be a car loan or a program like the Credit Rebuilder Program through Evergreen. Installment accounts show the bureaus you can manage regular monthly payments.
Pay on time, every time. This is the single most important factor in your score.
Check your credit reports each year. Make sure there are no errors holding you back.
FAQ: Is there a way to rebuild credit after a divorce using free tools?
Yes. Rebuilding credit after a divorce is absolutely possible, even if your score took a hit from shared debts, missed payments, or closed joint accounts. If you follow credit-scoring guidelines, your score can recover in as little as 12 to 24 months. Here’s how to start:
Figure out if you can realistically stick to your budget. If debt is piling up and you can’t make headway, explore debt-relief options before trying to rebuild credit. You can’t fix your score until the debt is under control.
Get your free credit reports. Visit annualcreditreport.com to check for errors or accounts that don’t belong to you.
Dispute inaccurate information. If there are errors on your credit report, submit disputes to the credit bureaus to have them corrected or removed.
Consider writing a goodwill letter to address negative marks. If your divorce caused derogatory items, like a missed payment your ex was supposed to handle, a goodwill letter might help. A goodwill letter is a written request asking a creditor to remove a negative mark from your credit report as an act of leniency.
You don’t dispute the accuracy; rather, you explain the circumstances and ask for compassion. A sincere, respectful letter that takes responsibility and explains the situation can go a long way. It’s not guaranteed, but it is a free option and might work if:
You’ve had a strong payment history otherwise
The issue was a one-time mistake during a difficult time (like a divorce)
You’ve resolved the account and are in good standing now
Address joint credit cards. If you’re listed as a joint account holder or authorized user and your ex still has access, remove yourself if possible. If the balance is paid off and the card is no longer needed, consider closing it—but only after you’ve opened new accounts in your name to avoid spiking your credit utilization.
Open three credit cards in your name. They don’t need to have high limits. Even secured cards can work. What matters is that they report to all three credit bureaus. (Check out this list of credit cards for people with poor to fair credit.)
Open one installment account. This could be a small personal loan or a credit-building program like the Credit Rebuilder Program, which reports your monthly payments as an installment loan.
Make all payments on time. Payment history is the biggest factor in your credit score. Even one late payment can hurt your progress.
Keep your credit utilization under 30%. This means you shouldn’t carry balances higher than 30% of your credit limits. The lower your utilization, the better your score will be.
FAQ: Can free credit repair help me qualify for a mortgage?
Absolutely. And probably sooner than you think. We enroll thousands of people into 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score every month, and these are primarily people who have been through a bankruptcy. One of the biggest misconceptions we hear from our students is that they assume that buying a home is out of the question for the next seven years.
But that’s not true.
With the right help, we’ve seen clients qualify for a home loan while still in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. And if you’ve completed a Chapter 7? You might be just 24 months away from closing on a home, possibly even less.
The first step is simple: clean up your credit report. That means removing any inaccurate or outdated information that’s dragging your score down. If you have been through a bankruptcy or are a victim of identity theft, we’ll help you do that for free if you enroll in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score.
Because here’s the truth: You will probably qualify for a mortgage if your score is low, but you will have a lot more options for loans if your score improves. A credit score over 580 can open the door to a mortgage, but a score over 620 opens up more loan programs, such as down payment assistance programs. Push it to 640 or 660, and suddenly, your interest rates drop, your monthly payments shrink, and your options widen.
Credit repair helps you get there faster. We’ve had many many clients go from bankruptcy to a 720 credit score in 12 to 24 months. And if you enroll in something like the Credit Rebuilder Program, which reports your on-time payments to the credit bureaus, you might start seeing improvement in as little as six months.
If you’re thinking about buying a home in the next year or two, now is the time to take your credit seriously. We suggest that you: 1) Enroll in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score or the Credit Rebuilder Program; and 2) Talk to a mortgage broker who specializes in working with people with poor credit.
FAQ: Can I repair credit after bankruptcy using free tools?
Yes. If you follow the behaviors that credit-scoring bureaus reward—like paying on time, keeping balances low, and opening the right kinds of accounts—it’s possible to reach a 720 score within 12 to 24 months.
FAQ: What are the biggest myths about credit repair?
The biggest myth is that you have to wait seven years to recover from bad credit. Credit-scoring bureaus pay more attention to your recent behavior (the past two years) than they do to older behavior, so even though negative information might stay on your credit report, it won’t be weighed as heavily as more recent activity. This myth is dangerous because it stops people from taking immediate action. The truth is, you can have a great credit score (720 or above) one or two years after you start following the rules of credit-scoring.
Here are a few other myths:
Myth
Truth
Myth #1: Bankruptcy will ruin your credit.
Bankruptcy often paves the way for your credit score to recover. If you’re struggling with debt, you’re probably paying bills late and carrying high balances, both of which hurt your score. Bankruptcy clears the path. If you follow the credit-building rules outlined in our course, your score can bounce back within 12 to 24 months of discharge or confirmation.
Myth #2: Pulling your own credit will hurt your credit score.
You can pull your own credit daily, and your score will not be harmed. That said, 10% of your credit score consists of inquiries, so if a creditor pulls your credit, your score may drop a few points. That said, the drop will be small, and your score will rebound a few months later.
Myth #3: Paying off a collection always helps your score.
If the collection is more than two years old, paying it might hurt your score because the account, which is not in good standing, will appear on your credit report as a current account.
Myth #4: You have to carry a balance to build credit.
Carrying a balance is expensive and unnecessary. Paying in full shows lenders you’re responsible and helps your score.
Myth #5: Disputing everything will clean your credit report.
If you file too many disputes, especially for accurate items, your file can get flagged for frivolous activity.
FAQ: What is a soft pull vs. a hard pull, and why does it matter for credit repair?
When someone checks your credit report, it’s called a pull or inquiry. Whether it’s soft or hard depends on who’s making the request and why. A soft pull is a simple credit check that doesn’t affect your score. It’s typically used for informational or promotional purposes. A hard pull is a full credit inquiry that happens when someone is reviewing your file for lending decisions. It can cause your score to drop slightly, usually by a few points, and too many hard pulls in a short time can make lenders nervous because it could signal that you are having cashflow issues and need access to credit to pay your bills.
Examples of soft pulls:
You check your own credit A lender checks your report to pre-approve you for an offer
You enroll in a service that gives you access to your credit report and/or credit score
Examples of hard pulls:
You apply for a credit card, auto loan, or mortgage
A landlord or utility company runs a full credit check
If you’re working on credit repair, be strategic about when and how often you allow hard pulls. They can slow your progress, especially if you’re applying for multiple accounts at once. That said, if you’re shopping for rates (like for a mortgage or auto loan), inquiries within a 14–45 day window for the same type of loan are generally treated as a single inquiry.
FAQ: How can I get a 720 credit score in 30 days fast?
Not everyone can get to a 720 in 30 days. It might be possible, but that depends on where your credit score is today and what you are capable of doing in the next 30 days. That said, you can see a major jump.
A lot of people don’t realize how fast their score can improve when one or two key things are fixed. I once had a student named James who came into the program with a 612 score. He had great payment history, but his cards were nearly maxed out. We showed him how to lower his utilization, and within a few weeks, his score jumped 72 points.
Why? Because credit utilization is one of the biggest factors in your score. Once that number dropped, his score shot up.
Another strategy that works in certain situations is becoming an authorized user on someone else’s credit card. If you have a family member with a long-standing card, low balance, and perfect payment history, and they add you to the account, that positive history can show up on your credit report.
I’ve seen people go from the low 600s into the 680s almost overnight—just from being added to one strong account. It doesn’t work in every case, but when the card is reporting the right way and the credit profile is solid, it can give your score a big boost.
But none of that happens without taking action. Whether your score improves by 20 points or 100, the goal is momentum. Inside 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, we show you exactly where to start based on your situation—and we do it for free.
FAQ: Are credit repair companies ever worth paying for?
Yes, but only in two specific situations. First, if you have a credit report error that isn’t related to bankruptcy or identity theft, and you don’t have the time or confidence to dispute it yourself, then paying for credit repair might make sense. Second, if you need to build new positive credit history, a paid credit rebuilder program could be a smart move. It’s not traditional credit repair, but it helps raise your score by reporting on-time payments to the credit bureaus.
If your credit report is mostly negative, or if you don’t have many accounts, a credit rebuilder program will report your on-time payments to all three credit bureaus, helping you establish a positive payment history, which is one of the key factors in a credit score.
But in most other cases, you’re better off starting with a free credit education program like 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, especially if your credit issues are tied to bankruptcy or another financial meltdown. That program includes a free credit report review through a law firm that handles disputes at no cost if the errors are caused by bankruptcy or identity theft.
Most people who pay for traditional credit repair end up disappointed. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has logged over 100,000 complaints about credit repair companies. Many of these involve hidden fees, vague promises, and little to no progress.
One man I worked with paid more than $1,000 over the course of a year. The company he hired kept disputing the same items without ever explaining what they were doing. His score didn’t budge. When he tried to cancel, no one responded. Eventually, he joined 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, and after following the steps for six months, his score started to rise … for free.
So if you’re thinking about spending money on credit repair, ask yourself what you’re really paying for. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Paid Credit Repair vs. Credit Education vs. Credit Rebuilder Program
You make on-time payments that get reported; you also receive a free credit education
Dispute Strategy
Often disputes everything
Focuses only on real errors; free legal representation in cases of errors caused by bankruptcy or identity theft
Focuses only on real errors; free legal representation in cases of errors caused by bankruptcy or identity theft
Education Provided
Rare
Central to the program
Included as part of the service
Long-Term Value
Temporary, depends on service
Skills and habits that last
Builds new positive credit history
Risk
High, especially with shady companies
None
None; late payments are never reported to the bureaus
If you’re going to pay for something, make sure it’s helping you move forward. Focus on services that offer real value, like building positive credit or giving you tools to understand and manage your score long-term. If it’s not doing that, you’re probably better off keeping your money.
After studying tens of thousands of credit reports, helping over 200,000 people, and spending decades as a mortgage broker, I’ve seen the same surprising truth play out again and again: most people are in a better position to rebuild after bankruptcy than they were before it. After all, they are no longer struggling to pay their bills.
In fact, with the right steps, your score can hit 720 in as little as one to two years.
The key is knowing what to do, and when to start. (Spoiler: it’s now.)
In this article, I’ll walk you through what happens to your credit score after bankruptcy, how to start building credit after a bankruptcy, and which credit-building moves make the biggest impact.
FAQ: How soon can I start building credit after a bankruptcy?
Answer: Right away. In fact, most people are surprised to learn that it’s easier to rebuild your credit score after bankruptcy than before. That’s because you’re in a better financial position after bankruptcy: your overdue balances are gone, and you’re no longer juggling payments you can’t afford.
On the other hand, before the bankruptcy, you were likely maxing out your credit cards, and you might have been paying your bills late, which are both things that can cause your credit score to drop.
If you start rebuilding your credit score right away, your credit score can increase to 720 (which is considered a great score) in just one or two years.
We recommend starting a credit-rebuilding strategy the same month your bankruptcy is discharged (Chapter 7) or confirmed (Chapter 13). Programs like 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score and the Credit Rebuilder Program are designed to guide you through this process from day one.
Watch & Learn: Will Bankruptcy Destroy Your Credit?
FAQ: Will my credit score go up or down when my bankruptcy is discharged?
Answer: It depends on where your score was before filing. If your credit was already low because of missed payments, maxed-out cards, or accounts in collections, your score might go up once the bankruptcy is discharged. That’s because many of your overdue balances get wiped out, and your debt-to-income ratio improves overnight.
If your score was high going into the bankruptcy, you might see a drop. But even then, the dip is usually short-lived if you take the right steps to rebuild your credit after the bankruptcy. Think of your bankruptcy as a clean slate. If you adopt new habits after the bankruptcy, your score can climb to 720 in 12 or 24 months. Namely, you should:
Open three new credit cards
Pay your credit cards on time and keep the balance low (no higher than 30 percent of the limit)
FAQ: What’s the fastest way of building credit after bankruptcy?
Answer: The key is to start right away. A lot of people think they have to wait 7 to 10 years for the bankruptcy to fall off their credit report before they can do anything, but that’s the slowest possible path.
Here’s what most people don’t realize: Credit bureaus care more about what you’re doing now than what happened in the past. The newer your positive behavior, the more weight it carries. So if you start rebuilding today, your score can start improving in just a few months. Most people who follow a focused plan see real progress within 12 to 24 months, even with the bankruptcy still on their report.
But if you wait seven years to get started, you’re really looking at eight or nine years before you’re back in good shape. That’s a long time to sit on the sidelines.
So what’s the game plan?
Open the right kinds of credit. That means that you open three new credit cards and one installment account after your bankruptcy has been discharged or confirmed. This gives the credit-scoring bureaus new information on your patterns of behavior after the bankruptcy.
Keep your balances low on your credit cards. Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit, but using less than 10% is even better. That tells lenders you’re not relying on credit to get by.
Pay on time, every time. Even one late payment can set you back. Automate where you can.
Fix reporting errors. After bankruptcy, your credit report can be full of mistakes related to the bankruptcy. Get them corrected so you’re not being unfairly penalized.
Follow a system. Programs like 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score and the Credit Rebuilder Program take the guesswork out of the process and help you stay on track.
Don’t wait. Every month you delay is a missed opportunity to show the credit bureaus that you’ve changed—and to get closer to the score you want.
Watch & Learn: Building Credit After Bankruptcy Through a Credit Rebuilder Program
FAQ: Can I qualify for a credit card after filing for bankruptcy?
Answer: Yes, though you may pay high interest rates on traditional credit cards. Credit cards designed for people with poor credit often come with a high APR, or Annual Percentage Rate. This is the total cost of borrowing over the course of a year, including interest and fees. The higher the APR, the more you’ll pay in interest if you carry a balance from month to month.
If you’re having trouble qualifying for a traditional credit card, you’re not out of options. One workaround is to apply for a secured credit card. Another is to ask someone you trust to add you as an authorized user on their credit card. Both can help you rebuild credit, but they work in very different ways, and each comes with its own pros and cons.
Building Credit After Bankruptcy Through a Secured Credit Card
A secured credit card is a great starting point if you’re rebuilding your credit, but it works a little differently than a traditional credit card. To open one, you’ll need to make a refundable deposit (usually a few hundred dollars) that becomes your credit limit. So if you put down $300, your limit is $300.
But here’s something a lot of people misunderstand: the deposit doesn’t go toward paying your monthly bill. It just sits there as collateral. You still use the card to make purchases, and then you’re expected to pay off those charges, just like you would with any other credit card. If you don’t pay the bill, the lender can keep your deposit and report your payment as late. If you use the card responsibly and eventually decide to close it, or if you graduate to an unsecured card, then and only then do you get your deposit back, as long as your balance is paid in full.
The upside is that most secured cards report to all three credit bureaus, which means every on-time payment helps rebuild your credit. Just make sure to pay the bill in full and on time, and keep your balance low.
Building Credit After Bankruptcy Through Authorized User Accounts
An authorized user account works a little differently. This is when a friend or family member adds you to their existing credit card. You don’t have to apply or put down a deposit. You’ll benefit from their payment history and length of credit, which can give your score a nice boost, as long as they’re responsible with the account. If they carry a high balance or miss payments, it can actually hurt your score instead of helping it. So make sure it’s someone you trust, and that they understand what’s at stake.
Neither option is perfect, but both can be powerful tools if used the right way. Some people even do both: they get a secured card to build their own credit while becoming an authorized user to strengthen their history even faster.
FAQ: How many credit cards do I need to start building credit after bankruptcy effectively?
Answer: Three. That’s the number we recommend if you’re serious about building your credit after bankruptcy.
That might sound surprising, especially if you’ve just been through a financial crisis like bankruptcy, but here’s the thing: this isn’t about going into debt. Opening credit cards after bankruptcy is about proving to the credit bureaus that you can use credit responsibly now, which is how you rebuild trust and how your score starts to improve.
Opening three credit cards gives you more room to show positive behavior. About 35 percent of your credit score is based on your payment history, so when you open three cards after a bankruptcy, and then pay them on time, you give the credit-scoring bureaus more data about your new-and-improved behavior.
And here’s an important tip: try to open them around the same time. One factor that affects your score is the age of your accounts. If you open one card now and wait six months to open the others, the new ones will drag down your average account age. But if you open all three close together, they’ll age together, and that helps your score in the long run.
You don’t need to spend much. Use each card for something small, like a streaming service or a gas fill-up, then pay it off in full every month.
It might feel strange at first, but these three cards can become the foundation of your financial comeback. And the sooner you start, the sooner they start working in your favor.
When I first started teaching people how to rebuild their credit almost three decades ago, one of the biggest sources of confusion was the credit score you get from banks (and now from apps). People would come to me saying, “Phil, Chase says my score is 720. Why did I get denied for a loan?”
I get it. It’s frustrating and confusing. But once you understand how credit scores are created, and which ones lenders actually use, it all starts to make sense. In this article, we’ll break it down so that you understand credit-scoring models and how to gauge your credit score.
What Credit Score Does Chase Show?
Chase provides something called a VantageScore 3.0, which is based on a mathematical formula pulled from your TransUnion credit report.
But here’s the important part: The formula applied to create the Chase credit score isn’t the same formula that is used to create a FICO score, which is the model most lenders use. And most lenders will take a look at not only your TransUnion credit report, but also your Experian credit report, and your Equifax credit report.
This might come as a surprise, because most lenders use your FICO score to make credit decisions. In fact, around 90% of lending decisions are based on a version of the FICO model, especially when it comes to mortgages, car loans, and major credit cards.
FICO and VantageScore pull from the same types of data: payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and so on. But they weigh those factors differently. That means your score can look different depending on which model is used, even though the underlying credit report is the same.
Think of it like two chefs using the same ingredients to make a dish. One might prioritize spice, the other sweetness. The final result looks similar, and the dish might be called the same thing by both chefs, but it tastes different. That’s what’s happening with your credit scores: same data, different recipe.
So if you’re monitoring your credit with Chase, it’s a great way to track trends and get a general sense of your credit health, but don’t assume that number is what lenders will see when they pull your FICO score.
Watch & Learn: Do You Feel Stuck in Debt?
VantageScore vs. FICO: What’s the difference?
So what’s the difference?
Your credit score is calculated using the information in your credit report, things like:
Your payment history
How much debt you’re carrying
How long you’ve had credit accounts
What types of credit you use
How recently you’ve opened new accounts
This information is plugged into a complex mathematical formula that spits out your credit score. But not all scoring models weigh those factors the same way.
FICO and VantageScore are two competing credit scoring systems.
Both use the same 300–850 scale, but the formula behind them is different.
That’s why you can have a 720 VantageScore and a 680 FICO score; both are “accurate,” just calculated differently.
In short: Your Chase credit score is a real credit score, but it is limited in its usefulness because it is not the one most lenders are using. While it’s helpful for tracking trends, don’t assume it’s what a bank will see when you apply for credit.
Why Is My Chase Credit Score Different From Other Scores I’ve Seen?
Here’s something that might seem a little confusing, so I’ll break it down. You have many credit scores. In fact, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reports that consumers can have dozens of scores depending on:
The credit bureau providing the report (TransUnion, Experian, Equifax)
The scoring model (FICO 8, FICO 9, FICO Auto Score, VantageScore, etc.)
The version of the scoring model
The date your data was pulled
Here’s an example: Let’s say Chase shows your VantageScore 3.0 as 720. But if a mortgage lender pulls your FICO Score 2 based on Experian, it could be 685. Both scores are accurate in their own right. They’re just calculated differently.
Making it even more confusing, when a lender pulls your FICO Score 2, they will get three scores: One from Experian, one from TransUnion, and a third from Equifax. They will ignore the highest and the lowest scores, and they will assign you an interest rate based on the middle score.
Watch & Learn: Building Credit Through a Credit Rebuilder Program
Can I Trust Chase’s Credit Score?
You can trust the Chase credit score to monitor trends and get a general idea of where you stand, but you cannot trust it to be an accurate indicator of the terms you will receive on a credit card, mortgage, or car loan.
Here’s an example: If your Chase score drops, there’s a good chance your FICO score dropped too. If it rises, your FICO likely did as well.
But don’t make major credit decisions like applying for a mortgage or car loan based only on the score you see in your Chase dashboard. Get your real FICO scores first. (You can likely get your FICO score by asking a mortgage broker to pre-approve you for a loan.)
Does a High Chase Credit Score Mean I’ll Qualify for a Loan?
Not always. Lenders rarely use VantageScore to make approval decisions. Even if you have a 730 score with Chase, your FICO could be in the 600s depending on:
Credit card balances
Recent inquiries
Derogatory marks
Age of accounts
If you’re preparing for a big financial step, like buying a home, leasing a car, or applying for new credit, check your FICO scores in advance.
What If My Chase Credit Score Is Low?
More than 30 years ago, I was a mortgage broker helping people buy homes. One day, I walked into the bank and found out I was overdrawn. When I tried to apply for overdraft protection, I was denied. That moment was humiliating and eye-opening. I knew I had to change something. So I started learning everything I could about credit scores: How they’re built, how they’re damaged, and most importantly, how to rebuild them.
If you’re looking to improve your credit score fast, Chase or FICO, the first step is to figure out why your score is low. For some people, it’s because they don’t have enough credit history. In that case, becoming an authorized user on someone else’s well-managed credit card can give your score an instant boost. For others, high credit card balances are the problem. Lowering your credit utilization, ideally under 30 percent of your limit, or even better, under 10 percent, can lead to major gains in just a few months.
Another powerful strategy is cleaning up errors on your credit report. We’ve seen clients jump 50 to 100 points simply by disputing accounts that should have been removed after bankruptcy or fixing reporting mistakes. If you have collections on your report, paying them off doesn’t always help your score, but negotiating a pay-for-delete agreement can. And even when deletion isn’t possible, resolving the debt can reduce stress and show future lenders you’re taking responsibility.
Finally, building new, positive credit history is key, particularly if you have been through a bankruptcy. Most people think it takes seven years to rebuild a credit score, but that’s a myth. With smart, consistent habits, you can often go from the 500s to the 700s in 12 to 24 months. Focus on what the scoring models care about: recent behavior, on-time payments, low balances, and a steady track record.
Need Help?
Our program, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, is built around the actual scoring models lenders use, and it works even after bankruptcy.
Want to raise your real credit score?
Join the thousands of people who have rebuilt their credit in just 12 to 24 months. Start the free credit-education program, and take control of your credit with a plan that actually works.
A credit score is a three-digit number that shows lenders how likely you are to repay borrowed money. It typically ranges from 300 to 850, and the higher the score, the better your chances of getting approved for credit with favorable terms.
Most people use the FICO scoring model, which calculates your score based on these factors:
Payment history (35%): Have you paid your bills on time?
Credit utilization (30%): Are you using too much of your available credit?
Length of credit history (15%): How long have you had your accounts?
Credit mix (10%): Do you have a variety of credit types, like credit cards and loans?
New credit inquiries (10%): Have you applied for a lot of new accounts recently?
Think of it like a financial GPA: it measures your behavior over time, not just one test.
In the 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score free credit-education program, we help people break this down even further. Most of our students have no idea how the scoring formula works when they begin, but once they understand it, they’re shocked at how quickly they can rebuild, even after a bankruptcy.
FAQ: What is a good credit score?
A good credit score usually starts at 700 on the FICO scale, but many lenders reserve their best rates for scores above 720.
Here’s a general breakdown:
Score Range
Description
720 or above
Your credit is excellent. You’ll qualify for just about any loan, and you’ll get the best interest rates available.
700 – 719
Your credit is very good. You’re seen as a low-risk borrower and will likely be approved, but you might not get the absolute best rates. Raising your score just a few points could help.
660 – 699
Your credit is in decent shape, but it’s not top tier. You might get approved if the rest of your application is strong, but you’ll likely miss out on the lowest rates. Some lenders may turn you down.
620 – 659
Your credit is borderline. You might still qualify, but you’ll probably face higher interest rates and less favorable terms. Lenders will look closely at the rest of your application.
Keep in mind, different lenders have different standards. A credit card company may approve you with a 680, while a mortgage lender might want to see 720 or higher to give you the best interest rate.
One thing we emphasize in 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score is that “good” isn’t just a number: it’s about opportunity. For many people, moving from the 600s into the 700s opens doors they thought were closed: car loans, mortgages, and even vacations paid for by credit card miles and rewards.
FAQ: What affects your credit score the most?
The single biggest factor affecting your credit score is payment history. If you pay your bills late, or miss them altogether, your score will take a hit.
Here’s how the major FICO categories break down:
35%: Payment history
30%: Credit utilization
15%: Length of credit history
10%: Credit mix
10%: New credit inquiries
In plain terms: Pay on time, use a small percentage of your available credit, and avoid applying for too much credit at once.
Many people assume paying off debt will automatically boost their score, but it’s more nuanced than that. If you pay off and close a credit card, your utilization might spike and your score could dip temporarily. In our free credit-education program, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, we teach people how to work with the formula, not against it. For example, we recommend keeping your old cards open and using them every month, then paying them off right away. We’ve seen people jump 30–50 points in just a few months by shifting a few simple habits.
FAQ: What is a good credit score for a college student?
There’s no separate credit scoring scale for students. Whether you’re 18 or 80, a good credit score is the same: generally 700 or above, with anything over 720 being a great credit score.
That said, many college students are just starting to build credit, so it’s normal for them to have lower scores, not because they’ve done anything wrong, but because their credit history is young. According to Experian, the average Gen Z credit score was 679 in 2023.
In 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, our free credit-education program, we help young people get a head start by showing them how to use credit responsibly from day one. We teach strategies like keeping utilization low, paying on time, and only opening accounts that serve a purpose. We’ve had students as young as 18 boost their score over 720 just by following the plan.
If you’re a student, focus on learning the rules early. A strong credit score can make life a lot easier when you graduate, whether you’re getting an apartment, financing a car, or landing a job that pulls your credit report.
FAQ: How does credit utilization impact my score?
Credit utilization refers to how much of your available credit you’re using, and it’s one of the most important factors in your credit score, making up 30% of your FICO score.
Here’s how it works: If you have a credit card with a $1,000 limit and you’re carrying a $500 balance, your utilization is 50%. The higher that percentage, the more it can drag your score down. A high balance-to-limit ratio tells the credit-scoring bureaus that you may be having a hard time keeping afloat, and that you are turning to credit cards to pay for day-to-day expenses. A low utilization rate, on the other hand, tells lenders that you have plenty of income to cover your expenses.
Most experts recommend keeping your utilization below 30%, but if you want to see real improvement, aim for under 10%.
Here’s the key: Utilization is calculated per account and across all accounts. That means even if your total utilization is low, having one maxed-out card can still hurt your score.
One age group stands out with the highest percentage of credit scores 620 or less, and it’s probably not the one you think. According to aggregated data from sources like CliffsNotes, ClassAce, and CourseSidekick, the biggest spike doesn’t happen at the beginning of adulthood. It happens later.
That surprised me… until I thought about what really happens during that stage of life. Bills pile up. Mortgages, student loans, kids, credit cards: All of it hits at once. It’s a pressure cooker.
So let’s take a closer look at what age group has the highest percentage of credit scores 620 or less, and more importantly, what you can do if your score is stuck in the low 600s … or lower.
What Age Group Has the Highest Percentage of Credit Scores 620 or Less?
If you’re wondering what age group has the highest percentage of credit scores 620 or less, it’s not the very young. It’s people in their 30s. Adults between the ages of 30 and 39 are more likely than any other age group to have a credit score of 620 or lower. While it’s easy to assume that younger adults would struggle the most due to limited credit history, the data tells a different story. The trend toward a lower credit score happens in the decade when financial responsibilities start compounding fast.
Here’s why this decade is the most credit-challenging:
Big life expenses: Mortgages, student loan payments, car loans, credit
cards, and kids. These pile up fast.
Risky borrowing patterns: Entry into higher-limit cards and large loans can
lead to missed payments or high balances.
Lingering credit damage: Mistakes from your 20s may still be dragging down
your score, and recovery takes time.
Not enough time to rebuild: Unlike older adults, those in their 30s haven’t
had decades to recover from credit missteps.
By contrast, people under 30 may have limited credit history, which does lower their score, but it also translates to fewer chances for serious damage, and people over 40 are often in the process of rebuilding or have already done so.
In your 30s, you’re often juggling student loans, car payments, mortgages, childcare, and credit cards, all while trying to build a stable life. It’s a lot. And when money gets tight, it’s easy for payments to fall behind, causing credit scores to drop.
Be sure to read this related article: “How Can I Improve My Credit Score Quickly?”
What Does a Sub-620 Credit Score Mean?
If you fall into the age group with the highest percentage of credit scores 620 or less, here’s what that means for your day-to-day finances:
Mortgage limitations: Conventional home loans often require a minimum score of 620.
High interest rates: Lenders may approve a loan, but at punishing rates.
Loan denials: You may not qualify at all, especially for auto or personal loans.
Increased fees and deposits: You might be required to pay security deposits for apartments, cell phones, or utilities.
In short, a low credit score makes everything more expensive, or unavailable altogether. By contrast, here’s what you can expect if you increase your credit score to 720:
Lower interest rates:You’ll save thousands over the life of a loan.
Higher credit limits: Lenders trust you with more borrowing power.
Top-tier credit cards: Get access to cards with serious perks.
Free travel: Use points and miles to cover flights, hotels, and upgrades.
Cash-back and rewards: Earn money or points on everyday spending.
Stronger approval odds: Qualify more easily for mortgages, auto loans, and rentals.
If your credit score is below 620, the 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score free credit-education program can help you start turning things around today. Here are three tips from the course:
Keep Your Balances Low
Your credit utilization ratio, how much credit you’re using compared to your total limit, is one of the biggest factors in your credit score. The goal is to keep this ratio under 30%, but if you want to see real movement in your score, aim for 10% or less. That doesn’t mean you need to pay off your cards entirely. Just avoid letting balances creep too high.
Dispute Credit Report Errors
Mistakes on your credit report can drag down your score for years if you don’t catch them. And they’re more common than most people realize: Industry experts estimate that between 34% and 70% of reports contain at least one error. Check your report regularly at annualcreditreport.com, which gives you free access from all three bureaus. If you find anything that looks wrong, like a payment marked late when you know it wasn’t, dispute it in writing and follow up until it’s resolved. The 7 Steps program includes templates and step-by-step instructions to walk you through it.
Mix Your Credit Types
Credit scoring models reward variety. That means having both revolving credit (like credit cards) and installment accounts (like car loans, student loans, or credit-builder loans). If you only have one type, your score may be stuck, even if you’re doing everything else right. You don’t need to take on unnecessary debt, but adding a small, manageable installment account can give your score a helpful nudge.
Watch & Learn: Building Credit Through a Credit Rebuilder Program
FAQ
What does a credit score of 620 or less mean for your finances?
A credit score of 620 or lower can be a major barrier to financial opportunity. This is the cutoff that many lenders use to determine whether you qualify for loans, credit cards, and even rental agreements.
At this level, you’re in what’s often called “subprime” territory. That means even if you get approved for credit, it’s likely to come with high interest rates, low credit limits, or extra fees. For example, someone with a 620 score might qualify for a car loan with an 11% interest rate, while someone with a 720 score could get the same loan for under 6%. Over the life of the loan, that difference could cost you thousands.
You might also face added expenses like utility deposits, higher insurance premiums, or prepaid cell phone plans. In short, a low score makes everything more expensive. A low score also has an impact on your peace of mind. Many people report feeling stuck or ashamed, even when the low score came from events outside their control. But you’re not powerless. Credit scores are fluid, and with a focused credit rebuilding plan, you can climb out of the low-600 range in just a year or two.
How fast can you raise your credit score after it drops below 620?
With the right strategy, you can reach a 700+ score in as little as 12 to 24 months.
Credit scores are not fixed. They respond quickly to new behavior. The most important thing is to stop the damage and start showing positive activity. That means on-time payments, low credit utilization, and adding the right mix of accounts. Even one new positive tradeline (like a credit card or installment account) can begin moving the needle.
People often wait for the negative items to “fall off” their credit report, assuming that time alone will fix the problem. But that’s a mistake. A bankruptcy, for example, might stay on your report for up to 10 years, but your score can recover long before that. In fact, many participants in the 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score program see dramatic changes in their scores within the first six months, especially if they follow the credit-building steps exactly.
The key is not waiting for time to do the work. Your score improves when you start taking action. And the sooner you do, the sooner your credit begins to reflect your current behavior, not your past.
Is it better to pay off old debt or build new credit when your score is low?
You need to do both, but when it comes to raising your credit score fast, new positive activity often has the biggest impact.
Here’s why: Credit scoring models place more weight on current behavior than on the past. That means if you’re only focused on paying down old debt, your score may not budge much, especially if that debt is already charged off or in collections. On the other hand, adding new accounts and using them wisely gives the credit bureaus something positive to report.
For example, someone with a 620 score who opens a secured credit card, keeps the balance below 10%, and makes on-time payments each month can start to see their score rise within a few billing cycles. And if they add an installment loan, like the one offered through the Credit Rebuilder Program, the impact can be even stronger.
That said, paying down revolving debt (like credit cards) is still critical, especially if your credit utilization is high. But the real key is balance: clean up what you can, and start building new credit at the same time.
Should I stop using credit and go cash-only?
No, and here’s why: You need credit to build credit.
It’s completely understandable to want to ditch credit altogether, especially if you’ve gone through a bankruptcy or struggled with debt. Going cash-only can feel like a fresh start. But over the long run, avoiding credit entirely can hurt more than it helps.
Here’s the deal: Your credit score is based on your use of credit. If you don’t have active accounts reporting to the credit bureaus, there’s nothing to measure. That means even if you’re financially responsible, your score can drop because there’s no recent activity to track.
Eventually, you’ll need your credit score, whether it’s for renting an apartment, buying a car, getting a mortgage, or even setting up utilities. If you’ve been off the grid for too long, you might face high deposits, higher interest rates, or outright denials.
The smarter move is to use credit strategically. That means opening the right accounts, using them for small purchases, and paying them off in full each month. This builds a strong credit history without getting you back into debt. Programs like the free credit-education program, 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, are designed to walk you through exactly how to do this.
Will paying off my collections help my credit score?
Not necessarily. A lot of people assume that once you pay off a collection account, your credit score will go up. But that’s not always how it works.
Here’s why: Once a collection shows up on your credit report, the damage is already done, and simply paying it off doesn’t erase the mark. That collection can remain on your report for up to seven years, whether it’s paid or unpaid. And many credit scoring models, especially the older ones, continue to factor it in even after it’s been paid.
Some newer scoring models ignore paid collections entirely, especially if they’re medical debts. But most lenders still rely on older models, so it’s hard to know if paying the debt will actually improve your score.
There’s another risk, too: If the debt is past the statute of limitations and you make a payment, you might restart the legal clock. That means the account could become collectible again or even show up longer on your report.
One possible workaround? Negotiate a pay-for-delete agreement. That’s when you ask the collection agency to remove the item from your report entirely in exchange for payment. It’s not guaranteed, and it’s discouraged by credit bureaus, but it does happen. If successful, it could raise your score by 50 to 100 points. (Step 6 of the 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, our free credit-education course, walks you through how to do this.)
Even if deletion isn’t possible, paying the debt can still bring peace of mind and prevent future collection efforts. But if your goal is to boost your score, the biggest gains usually come from building new credit habits: on-time payments, low balances, and responsible use of credit going forward.
Most credit scores range from 300 to 850. Here’s how those numbers translate:
If you have a credit score of…
Then …
720 or above
You have amazing credit. This is the sweet spot. You’ll qualify for top-tier loans and interest rates usually reserved for borrowers with the strongest profiles.
700–719
You’re in excellent shape. You’re still considered a low-risk borrower, though some elite rates may be out of reach. Even a few-point boost can make a noticeable difference in your long-term borrowing costs. If you’re wondering—What is a good credit score for a college student?—anything above 700 is considered good. Anything above 720 is considered great!
660–699
This is considered fair to good. You may get approved for a solid loan, but only if the rest of your application (income, debt-to-income ratio, etc.) is strong. You won’t see the best interest rates, and some lenders might say no altogether.
620–659
Your score is borderline. Lenders will see you as high-risk. If you get approved at all, expect higher rates and less favorable loan terms.
Below 620
This is classified as poor credit. You’ll pay the highest interest rates and could get denied for credit altogether. The lower the score, the worse the terms.
So, what is a good credit score for a college student? Anything above 700 is a great place to be. Above 720 is ideal. And yes, the expectations are exactly the same no matter your age.
Why It’s Hard to Get Credit When You’re Young
The biggest challenge college students face is a lack of credit history. You might not have any missed payments or financial mistakes, but you also don’t have any track record that proves you’re a responsible borrower.
Lenders want evidence. Without it, they assume risk. This is known as being “credit invisible.” It’s like trying to get into a club without any ID. You’re not necessarily doing anything wrong. You just haven’t shown the proof they’re looking for. That’s why it’s important to understand what is a good credit score for a college student and how to take the first steps toward building one.
That said, there are a few things you can do to get credit and start building your credit history. Here are three:
1.Become an Authorized User
If you want to start building credit before you qualify for your own card, one smart move is to ask a trusted family member to add you as an authorized user on their credit card.
When you’re an authorized user, the account’s activity gets reported on your credit file, even though you’re not responsible for the payments.
This can help you:
Establish a credit history
Increase your score by association
Qualify for your own card more easily later on
Important: Only do this with someone who has a strong payment history and low credit use. Their habits will reflect on your score.
If you’re new to credit or have a low score, a secured credit card is one of the safest ways to start building responsibly.
Here’s how it works:
You put down a deposit (usually $200–$500)
That deposit becomes your credit limit
You use the card like any other card, buy something, pay it off
Your payments get reported to the credit bureaus
It’s a low-risk way to prove you can manage credit. And if you treat it like a debit card (never spending more than you can pay off), you’ll be in excellent shape.
Many secured card issuers will let you “graduate” to an unsecured card after several months of on-time payments.
3.Build Credit the Smart Way
Once you’ve got a way to start building credit, either through an authorized user setup or a secured card, it’s time to develop good credit habits.
These four actions will move your score in the right direction:
Pay on time, every time. Payment history makes up 35% of your credit score. One missed payment can set you back big time. Set reminders, use autopay, do whatever it takes.
Keep your balances low. Credit utilization (how much of your available credit you’re using) is the second-biggest factor in your score. Try to keep your usage below 30%—and below 10% if you really want to boost your score.
Don’t apply for too many cards. Each application results in a hard inquiry, which can temporarily ding your score. Space out applications and only apply for cards or loans you actually need.
Monitor your credit report. You’re entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) every year at AnnualCreditReport.com. Check for errors and dispute anything that looks wrong.
What is a good credit score for a college student? Over 200,000 people have learned the answer and built their credit with our proven strategies. Join our free credit-education program here.
Understand the Dangers of Credit Cards in College
Here’s the part most blogs skip: credit cards are risky if you’re not ready for them.
It’s easy to get into trouble fast:
Small balances turn into big balances
Minimum payments barely chip away at debt
Missed payments stay on your credit report for seven years
One late payment can tank your score by 100 points or more
College is already stressful. You don’t want credit card debt added to that mix. So if you’re going to open a card, do it with a plan.
Let’s say you got a card, overspent, and missed a few payments. Is it game over?
Not even close.
Credit scores are designed to reflect recent behavior more than old mistakes. Here’s how to start the recovery process:
Catch up on all payments immediately and stay current
Stop using credit cards temporarily if you’re carrying a balance
Pay down balances to reduce your credit utilization
Contact your creditor and ask for a goodwill adjustment if you have one late payment and a good history otherwise (some lenders will remove it)
Add a new positive account like a secured card or credit builder loan to get fresh data reporting to the bureaus
Within six to twelve months of consistent, responsible use, your score can see serious improvement.
Why Credit Scores Matter in College
Even if you’re not thinking about loans right now, your credit score still matters. A good score can help you:
Qualify for a student apartment without a cosigner
Get approved for your first car loan
Access credit cards with better rewards or lower interest
Secure a job (some employers check credit reports)
Build long-term financial stability before you ever need a mortgage
So, what is a good credit score for a college student? The same as it is for anyone else: Above 700 is great. Above 720 is ideal.
But the more important question is: What habits are you building today that will shape your financial future tomorrow? Start small. Start smart. Learn how credit works, use it responsibly, and set yourself up for more than just a good credit score. Set yourself up for freedom—financial freedom to travel, get approved for your dream apartment, buy a car, or even a house.
Your credit score isn’t a number that measures your worth. But it is a tool. And the earlier you learn how to use it, the better off you’ll be.
You might’ve heard that checking account activity doesn’t show up on credit reports, but does overdraft affect credit scores in other ways? The short answer is no, not directly. But there are some important exceptions. An overdraft won’t show up on your credit report right away, but how you handle it can set off a chain reaction that absolutely impacts your score.
Here’s what you need to know about overdrafts, credit scores, and the habits that can protect your financial health.
What Is an Overdraft?
An overdraft happens when you spend more than what’s available in your checking account, and your bank covers the difference, usually for a fee. You might have overdraft protection, which automatically pulls money from a linked savings account or credit card. Or you might get hit with multiple fees for each transaction that overdraws your account.
While this might seem separate from your credit profile, the way you manage your bank account can impact your creditworthiness down the line.
Does Overdraft Affect Credit Scores?
Let’s get this part clear. Overdrafts do not directly affect your credit score. Here’s why:
Credit bureaus don’t track checking account activity. Your credit score is based on data related to credit cards, loans, and other forms of borrowing. Overdrafts, which occur in checking accounts, are not part of that ecosystem because they aren’t related to debt and borrowing.
Overdrafts are not credit accounts. Unless your bank links overdraft protection to a credit card or personal line of credit, overdrafts are not viewed as “borrowing” in the eyes of the credit bureaus.
So in most cases, if you go over your balance and pay the fees, your credit score won’t take a hit.
Over 200,000 people have rebuilt their credit with our proven strategies. Join our free credit-education program here.
When Overdrafts Can Hurt Your Credit
Even though the answer to “does overdraft affect credit scores” is usually no, there are some situations where overdrafts can lead to credit damage if left unresolved:
Unpaid overdraft fees: If you ignore the negative balance and let it sit unpaid, your bank might eventually close your account and send the debt to a collection agency.
Collections: Once a debt is in collections, it will be reported to the credit bureaus, and that will affect your credit score.
ChexSystems: Banks report overdrafts and other checking account mismanagement to ChexSystems, a consumer reporting agency. This doesn’t impact your credit score, but it can make it hard to open new checking accounts.
So while the act of overdrafting won’t lower your credit score, neglecting to resolve it might.
What Factors Determine Your Credit Score?
If overdrafts don’t typically count, what does? Your credit score is a measure of how you handle credit, not your checking account. It changes frequently, sometimes daily, as lenders report new activity, old accounts fall off, or inquiries are added. Although FICO uses 22 criteria in its scoring algorithm, five major categories do most of the heavy lifting.
Payment History (35%)
This is the single most important factor. It includes your track record on credit cards, loans, mortgages, and other accounts. A late payment, especially one that’s more than 30 days overdue, can cause serious damage.
The following are included in your payment history:
Mortgage and car loan payments
Credit card payments
Collections and charge-offs
Public records like bankruptcy or foreclosure
But these aren’t:
A bill paid one day late
A bounced check that was quickly resolved
A utility bill, unless it gets sent to collections
Amounts Owed (30%)
This part of your score looks at how much you owe compared to how much credit you have available. Credit cards matter most here. If your cards are close to maxed out, your score takes a hit—even if you’re making payments on time.
A good rule of thumb? Try to keep the balance on each card under 30% of your limit. So if your card has a $1,000 limit, aim to keep your balance below $300.
Also:
Don’t move all your debt onto one card, even if it has a lower interest rate. That can hurt your score.
It’s better to spread your balances across a few cards and keep them all under that 30% mark.
Loans like car payments and mortgages also factor in, but new loans can hurt your score a little at first. Once you show you’re making steady payments, your score will start to recover.
Over 200,000 people have rebuilt their credit with our proven strategies. Join ourfree credit-education program here.
Length of Credit History (15%)
The longer you’ve had credit, the better it looks on your report. Lenders want to see that you’ve been managing credit for a while, not just a few months. They look at a few things:
How long your oldest account has been open
The average age of all your accounts combined
How recently you’ve used your accounts
Every time you open a new credit card or loan, it lowers the average age of your credit history, which can drag your score down a bit.
Also, don’t be too quick to close old accounts, even if you don’t use them often. That old credit card you’ve had forever? It’s actually helping your score just by being there. Unless there’s a good reason to close it (like high fees), it’s often better to leave it open.
New Credit and Inquiries (10%)
Every time a lender checks your credit because you applied for something, like a credit card, car loan, or mortgage, it creates what’s called a hard inquiry. That can drop your score a little, especially if you don’t have much credit history or if you’ve applied for several things in a short amount of time.
But not all credit checks hurt your score. When you check your own credit, that’s a soft inquiry … and it doesn’t affect your score at all.
Also good to know: if you’re shopping around for a car loan or mortgage, the credit bureaus give you a break. All those checks within a 14 to 45 day window only count as one inquiry, so you won’t get penalized for comparing your options.
Credit Mix (10%)
Lenders want to see a mix of credit types. A healthy profile might include:
It’s just as important to know what doesn’t show up on your credit report. Many people panic over things that won’t move the needle. Here are a few examples:
Overdrafts on your bank account (unless they go to collections)
Bounced checks (again, unless they are sent to collections)
Late payments under 30 days past due
Utility or cell phone payments (unless they’re in collections)
Your salary or job history
Your age, marital status, or education level
Interest rates or fees on credit cards
That said, new credit scoring models like FICO Expansion Score and VantageScore are starting to experiment with including things like rent and utility payments, but they’re not widely used yet.
How Long Do Items Stay on Your Credit Report?
Most negative items stay on your credit report for seven years. But they don’t affect your score equally over that time.
Recent late payments cause the most damage
Old bankruptcies still matter, but less so as time goes on
Inquiries stay for two years but affect your score for only one
Final Answer: Does Overdraft Affect Credit Scores or Not?
Not directly. But unpaid overdrafts that go unresolved can become collection accounts, and those do affect your score.
The best way to avoid trouble is to:
Monitor your checking account regularly
Use overdraft protection wisely
Repay any negative balances quickly
And remember, while overdrafts are unlikely to affect your credit report today, your broader financial habits matter more than any single mistake. If you’re working toward a stronger credit score, focus on the five core areas: paying on time, keeping balances low, building credit history, diversifying your credit, and applying for new credit strategically.
Your checking account is not part of your credit profile, but your financial discipline is.
Over 200,000 people have rebuilt their credit with our proven strategies. Join ourfree credit-education program here.
Do I Need a Debt-Collector Attorney? And If So, What Kind?
When people use the term “debt collector attorney,” they are usually referring to one of two types of legal professionals:
A bankruptcy attorney to help them get out of debt
A consumer protection attorney to help them fight back if their rights have been violated.
Let’s take a look at these two professionals.
Part One: You Need Help Getting Out of Debt
If your bills have become unmanageable, collectors are blowing up your phone, or you’re behind on major payments like a mortgage, car loan, or credit card, a bankruptcy attorney is often your best ally.
A bankruptcy attorney will:
Help you decide if bankruptcy is the right move
Determine which type of bankruptcy to file (Chapter 7 or Chapter 13)
Stop creditor harassment the moment your case is filed
Protect your wages, home, car, and bank account
Wipe out qualifying debts like credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills
Guide you through rebuilding your credit afterward
Let’s take a minute to dispel some myths about bankruptcy. After all, bankruptcy gets a bad rap. For decades, it’s been framed as a last resort or a personal failure, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Bankruptcy is a legal tool, written into the system, designed to help regular people reset after financial hardship. Job loss, medical bills, divorce, inflation: these are the kinds of events that push people into debt, not reckless spending. Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t mean you’ve given up. It means you’re choosing a path forward, one that stops the bleeding and gives you the structure, protection, and timeline you need to rebuild. And with the right plan, you can come out the other side with better credit, less stress, and a shot at real financial freedom.
Watch & Learn: You’ve Been Lied to About Bankruptcy
Consider calling a bankruptcy attorney if:
You’re behind on credit card or loan payments
You’re being sued by a creditor
Collectors are threatening wage garnishment
You’ve tried budgeting, settlement, or consolidation—but nothing’s worked
You’re stressed, stuck, and ready for a real reset
Here’s the part most people don’t realize: Filing bankruptcy immediately stops collection activity, including lawsuits, garnishments, and phone calls. That legal protection is called the automatic stay, and it goes into effect the moment your case is filed.
In other words, bankruptcy might not just be a last resort. It might be your most powerful financial tool.
If you need an introduction to a bankruptcy attorney, we are happy to help. Schedule afree consultation with a debt professional, and we’ll connect you with a bankruptcy attorney in your state.
Part Two: You’re Being Harassed or Misinformed
If you’re getting calls that don’t stop, letters filled with legal threats, or credit report entries that don’t look right, you may need a debt collector attorney who focuses on consumer rights. These attorneys, consumer rights attorneys, help when collectors or credit bureaus break the law. That includes violations of:
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
State-level consumer protection laws
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
This federal law limits what debt collectors are allowed to do. It protects you from harassment, lies, and intimidation. For example, collectors can’t call you at work if you’ve told them not to. They can’t call in the middle of the night, threaten you with jail, or misrepresent what you owe. If they do, they’ve broken the law—and a debt collector attorney can hold them accountable.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act
This law governs your credit report. It requires that the information reported about you is accurate, complete, and up to date. If a creditor or credit bureau reports something incorrectly, like a paid-off account showing as unpaid or an account that was discharged in bankruptcy, you have the right to dispute it. And if they fail to fix the error, an attorney can step in and potentially get you compensation.
State-level Consumer Protection Laws
Many states offer additional protections on top of federal laws. These can include stricter rules on how debt is collected, tighter timelines for correcting credit errors, or higher penalties for abusive behavior. A consumer protection attorney will know the laws in your state and can use them to your advantage.
How Can a Consumer Rights Attorney Help Me?
If you’re being harassed by debt collectors, receiving letters that feel more like threats than information, or spotting credit report errors that never seem to get fixed, a consumer rights attorney can step in and level the playing field. These attorneys specialize in holding debt collectors and credit reporting agencies accountable when they break the law, something that happens far more often than most people realize.
A consumer rights attorney can stop the harassment, challenge false information, and even take legal action on your behalf. If you’ve told a collector not to call you at work and they keep doing it, that’s a violation. If they’re calling before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., lying about what you owe, threatening arrest, or continuing to report a discharged debt after your bankruptcy, they’re breaking federal law.
Consumer rights attorneys can sue collectors who use illegal tactics, demand the removal of inaccurate credit entries, and pursue damages when your rights have been violated. And in many cases, if a company is found liable, they may have to pay your attorney fees, not you, and you might receive financial compensation.
You might want to contact a debt collector attorney if:
A collector is calling you repeatedly, even after you’ve asked them to stop
You’re getting confusing or threatening letters from companies you don’t recognize
You’re being asked to pay a debt that seems inflated or unfamiliar
Your credit report includes inaccurate, outdated, or duplicate entries
You filed bankruptcy, but collectors are still contacting you about discharged debt
Table 1: What Kind of a Debt Collector Attorney Do You Need?
If …
Call a …
You can’t keep up with payments and need a way out of debt
Bankruptcy Attorney
You’re being sued for a debt you may not owe
Consumer Rights Attorney
You’re being harassed by collectors
Consumer Rights Attorney
Your credit report has errors you can’t fix
Consumer Rights Attorney
You’ve already filed bankruptcy, but collectors won’t stop calling
Consumer Rights Attorney
You want a full legal reset and to start rebuilding your credit
Bankruptcy Attorney
In some cases, you may need both. For example, a bankruptcy attorney can help you eliminate the debt, and a consumer rights attorney can help you fight back if creditors break the law during or after the process. And in some cases, your debt collector attorney specializes in both bankruptcy and consumer rights.
In any case, debt doesn’t fix itself, and neither do violations of your rights. If you’re feeling stuck, ashamed, or overwhelmed, the best thing you can do is get clarity.
You don’t need to have all the answers before making the call. A good attorney will walk you through your options and help you understand your rights.
Lenders use your credit score to determine how risky it is to lend to you, with anything above a 720 generally being the lowest risk, and anything below 620 being the highest risk. A higher score means lower risk, which translates to better interest rates, better loan terms, and more flexibility in the homebuying process.
Even a small increase in your credit score could mean qualifying for a better rate, potentially saving you tens of thousands of dollars in interest over the life of your loan.
Here’s a comparison showing how much extra interest you could pay over the life of a 30-year, $375,000 mortgage depending on your credit score:
Table 1: Why Can It Be Beneficial to Increase Your Credit Score Before Buying a House?
Credit Score Range
Extra Interest Paid
(Compared to 720+)
700 – 719
$13,502.75
660 – 699
$45,330.55
620 – 659
$100,894.69
Below 620
$162,425.77
These numbers are based on average 30-year fixed rates as of July 13, 2025.
As you see, even moving from the 620s to the high 600s can make a meaningful difference. And breaking past 720 can result in significant long-term savings.
How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying
If your score is under 720, there are several steps you can take to boost it before applying for a mortgage. (And be sure join the 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score, our free credit-education course.) Let’s take a look at five of them.
1. Dispute Credit Report Errors
Start by reviewing your credit reports for inaccuracies. Look for duplicate accounts, late payments that aren’t yours, or accounts that were settled but are marked as open. If you’ve been through a bankruptcy, it’s especially important to verify that discharged accounts are properly reported. Our team estimates that about 40% of people post-bankruptcy have high-priority errors, and around 10% are legally actionable under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Your credit utilization ratio compares how much credit you’re using to your total available credit. For example, if you have a $5,000 limit and your balance is $2,500, your utilization is 50%. Ideally, keep this ratio under 30% … and under 10% if you want the biggest boost.
3. Open Three Credit Cards if You Have Been Through a Financial Meltdown
If you have been through some sort of a financial meltdown, the best way to show creditworthiness is to establish new, positive accounts. That means opening three credit cards in your name and using them responsibly. Why? Credit-reporting bureaus place more emphasis on new accounts and new behavior than on old accounts. We always liken it to a GPA: If you have bad grades your freshman year, but you start getting a bunch of A’s, your GPA will start to grow. And colleges will look at your transcripts and see that while you struggled in the past, you’ve turned over a new leaf.
4. Make On-Time Payments
Nothing matters more than a consistent history of on-time payments. One late payment can tank your score. Automate payments or set reminders to stay on track.
5. Add an Installment Account
Installment accounts, like car loans or credit builder loans, add another layer of positive history. If you want to speed up the process, our Credit Rebuilder Program reports small monthly payments to all three credit bureaus and can act like an installment account.
Watch & Learn: The Credit Rebuilder Program
What NOT to Do Before Buying a House
Here’s a warning: Don’t make major purchases within six months of buying a home. New debt increases your debt-to-income ratio and can trigger a hard inquiry, both of which can lower your credit score. Buying a car, financing furniture, or opening new credit cards during this time could jeopardize your mortgage approval.
Credit Score Isn’t Everything
While it can be beneficial to increase your credit score before buying a house, your credit score is not the only thing lenders evaluate. Here’s what else matters:
Income Stability: Lenders want to see consistent, reliable income. Job changes or gaps in employment can raise red flags.
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): This ratio compares your monthly debts to your monthly income. Lower DTI is better.
Down Payment Amount: A larger down payment can make up for a lower credit score or high DTI.
Cash Reserves: Lenders may want to see that you have savings to cover a few months of mortgage payments.
Recent Payment History: Even with a low score, no late payments in the last 12 months can go a long way.
Different Lenders = Different Rules
One of the most important things to understand when applying for a mortgage is that there is no universal rulebook. Each loan program, whether it’s FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional, comes with its own guidelines. And beyond that, individual lenders have their own overlays, meaning they may impose stricter requirements than the program itself. For example, FHA technically allows scores as low as 580, but many lenders won’t go below 620. Some lenders might require more documentation, higher reserves, or even deny an application due to a past credit issue that another lender would overlook.
This is why it’s so important to work with a knowledgeable mortgage broker or lending advisor who can shop your file around and find the right fit. Especially if your score is below 700, finding a lender who sees the full picture—not just the number—can make or break your ability to buy a home.
Let’s break down some of the key loan types and what they generally require. (And be sure to read the article called “How Much of a Home Loan Can I Get With a 650 Credit Score?”)
The chart below illustrates why it can be beneficial to increase your credit score before buying a house, with higher credit scores opening up loan options. Sure, you don’t need a high score to buy a home, but you’ll save money and have more options available if you do!
Table 2: Loan Types and Credit Scores Compared
FHA Loan
VA Loan
USDA Loan
Conventional Loan
Minimum Credit Score
580
Typically 620
640–650
620
Down Payment
3.5%
None
None
5% to 20%
Common?
No. Primarily for first-time or low-income buyers.
No. For veterans and active-duty military.
No. Limited to those in rural areas with income caps.
Yes
Loan Amount Cap
~$498,257 (standard); up to $1,149,825 (high-cost areas)
No official cap with full entitlement
No set cap, but income and property restrictions apply
$806,500 (standard); up to $1,200,000 (high-cost areas)
Notes
Mortgage insurance required; less credit-sensitive
No mortgage insurance; for eligible service members
Rural-only; income limits; modest homes only
PMI required if <20% down; more credit-sensitive
It’s worth noting that conventional loans are the most commonly used type of mortgage in the U.S. That’s because they’re available to almost everyone who qualifies based on credit, income, and down payment, unlike FHA, VA, or USDA loans, which come with specific restrictions.
So why can it be beneficial to increase your credit score before buying a house?
The numbers don’t lie: The difference between a good interest rate and a great one can mean saving tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars over time.
That said, while your score plays a big role, it’s just one part of the full financial picture lenders consider.
By taking a few focused steps, such as disputing errors, managing credit use, making on-time payments, and building new credit … you can shift your credit score into a higher tier and expand your loan options. More importantly, you position yourself to walk into homeownership with confidence, flexibility, and a stronger financial foundation.
If you’re planning to buy in the next 6 to 12 months, start today by joining 7 Steps to a 720 Credit Score for free. A higher score could mean a lower rate, a better loan, and a smoother path to the home you want.
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