how do i improve my credit score without doing the obvious (paying on time)?

Question

there are two collections and a judgment on my report but they all show as paid.

Answer 1

Understand what goes into your credit score:

http://financialbasics.blogspot.com/2006/11/credit-reports-and-credit-reporting.html

Then you'll have a better idea of what fits your particular situation

Answer 2

Try to pay as much as you can off at once.


As for those collections and a judgment, they will remain as negative marks on your report for 7 years.

Answer 3

You hit it on the head with 'pay on time'.
But you can also quit applying for new credit.
When you apply, the company checks your credit.
Too many inquiries will reduce your score.
Pay off revolving credit (credit cards with high % rates).
The % of your total credit used has an effect on your score.
If you have $100,000 in available credit and $99,000 used, it looks like you're in trouble & the score drops.

Answer 4

Pay down any other debt so that your debt to income ratio is better. That should improve your FICO score.
Preferably all debt should be < 40% of income and non-secured should be less than < 10% but check with the credit counselor to get their actual ratio targets.

Answer 5

If the collections/judgements are resolved their impact will go away over time. While you wait, work on the other stuff (pay on time, pay down balances, don't open a bunch of new accounts, etc.)

Answer 6

If they show as paid, see about having them removed. Otherwise, even with perfect credit otherwise, those will cause lenders to shy away from you.

Answer 7

PAY DOWN THE BALANCES ON REVOLVING ACCOUNTS SUCH AS CREDIT CARDS THEY HAVE A MAJOR IMPACT ON YOUR SCORE

Answer 8

Pay of a loan that will help
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http://www.bestcreditrates.net

Answer 9

You don't!