How to improve your credit score

Why credit scores change over time

Credit scores are not fixed. They change based on how you manage credit, how often you borrow, and how consistently you meet repayment commitments.

Improving a credit score usually involves demonstrating reliable financial behaviour over a period of time, rather than making one quick change.

Practical steps that may help improve your credit score

While no action guarantees an immediate improvement, the following steps are commonly associated with healthier credit profiles:

• Make all payments on time, including credit cards and bills
• Reduce outstanding balances where possible
• Avoid using a high percentage of available credit
• Limit how often you apply for new credit
• Keep older credit accounts open where appropriate

Check your credit report regularly

Reviewing your credit report allows you to see what information lenders may be assessing.

It can also help you identify errors, outdated information, or accounts that no longer apply to you. Correcting inaccuracies may help prevent unnecessary issues.

How long does it take to improve a credit score?

Improving a credit score is usually a gradual process. Some changes may be reflected within a few months, while more serious issues can take longer to reduce their impact.

Consistency is often more important than speed. Lenders typically look at recent behaviour as well as past history.