Tactics
- Multiple payments per month so statements report low balances.
- Spread balances across cards; avoid any card >30% (ideally <10%).
- Ask for higher limits (soft pull preferred).
- Keep old cards open to preserve total available credit.
- Time large purchases after the statement date so they don't report.
Do not
- Close your oldest credit card just to "clean up."
- Max out cards—even briefly—before a major loan application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best utilization percentage?
Under 10% overall, with no individual card over 30%.
When should I pay my credit card?
Before the statement date to report lower balances, but keep one card with small usage.
Will asking for credit increases hurt my score?
Ask if it's a soft pull first. Hard pulls may lower score temporarily but increase available credit.