Credit Repair: Simple Steps to Fix Your Score

If your credit score feels stuck, you don’t need a magic trick—just a clear plan. Credit repair is about cleaning up mistakes, paying down debt, and showing lenders you’re reliable. The good news? Most of the work you can do yourself, without paying a high‑price service.

Step 1: Get Your Credit Reports

The first move is to pull your free credit reports from the three major bureaus. You can do this once a year at www.transunion.co.uk, Experian or Equifax. Look for late‑payment marks, collections, or accounts you don’t recognize. If you spot anything wrong, flag it right away—mistakes happen, and they can drag your score down.

When you find an error, write a short dispute letter. Include your name, the account number, and why the entry is wrong. Send it by certified mail and keep a copy. The bureau has 30 days to investigate, and most mistakes get corrected fast.

Step 2: Dispute Mistakes and Build Good Habits

After you’ve cleared the errors, focus on the habits that lenders love. Pay at least the minimum on every bill, but aim to keep your credit‑card balances below 30 % of the limit. If you can, pay the whole balance each month to avoid interest and show lower utilization.

Avoid opening new credit cards or loans unless you need them. Each hard inquiry can shave a few points off your score, especially if you have a short credit history. If you do need fresh credit, consider a secured credit card—deposit cash, use it responsibly, and watch the score climb.

Older accounts are a boost, so don’t close them just because you’re not using them. A long, positive payment history outweighs a brand‑new card with a perfect record. If a credit‑card provider wants to close an idle account, ask them to keep it open.

Sometimes a short‑term plan helps. Take a “pay‑more‑than‑minimum” approach for a few months to knock down high balances quickly. This reduces your utilization ratio, which can lift your score in as little as 30 days.

If you feel overwhelmed, a reputable credit counseling agency can coach you through budgeting and debt‑management plans. Choose a non‑profit that’s accredited by the Financial Conduct Authority and watch out for firms that promise a “quick fix” for a fee.

Finally, keep monitoring your progress. Set a reminder to check your score every three months. Seeing steady improvement fuels motivation and helps you spot any new issues before they become problems.

Credit repair isn’t a one‑time fix; it’s a series of small, consistent actions. By reviewing your reports, disputing errors, and practicing good credit habits, you can raise your score without paying hefty fees. Start with the free reports, clean up the mess, and stay disciplined—your future self will thank you.