Simple Habits That Can Improve Your Credit Score in 90 Days

19th Jul 2025

Improving your credit score doesn’t need to take years. By following a few smart habits and staying consistent, you can start to see real improvements in just 90 days.

Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, a loan, or simply want more control over your finances, these simple steps can help.

✅ Why 90 Days Matters

Credit scores are updated monthly, meaning you have at least three reporting cycles to make a difference. These habits help show lenders you're reliable - increasing your chances of approval and better rates.

1. Pay Every Bill On Time

Payment history is the most important factor in your credit score. Even one missed payment can damage your record for years.

Tips to stay on track:

• ·       Set up direct debits for minimum payments
• ·       Add payment reminders to your calendar
• ·       Keep a small buffer in your bank account

Three months of on-time payments can show stability and build lender trust.

2. Keep Your Credit Utilisation Low

A key habit to improve your credit score is managing how much credit you use.

Aim to stay below 30% of your available credit limit. For example, if your credit limit is £1,000, try not to use more than £300 at any time.

Quick tip: If you regularly exceed 30%, ask for a credit limit increase - but don’t increase your spending. This lowers your utilisation ratio and supports your score.

3. Check Your Credit Report for Errors

Errors on your credit report can unfairly hurt your score. These include wrong addresses, duplicate accounts, or incorrect late payments.

Use a free credit score checker to review your report. If anything looks off, raise a dispute with the relevant credit reference agency.

Fixing errors can sometimes result in a quick score boost.

4. Avoid Multiple Credit Applications

Too many credit applications in a short time can hurt your score. Each one leaves a “hard search” on your report and may suggest financial stress.

Do this instead:

• ·       Use eligibility checkers with soft searches
• ·       Space out your applications
• ·       Only apply for credit you truly need

This shows lenders you're in control of your borrowing.

5. Register on the Electoral Roll

Being registered to vote at your current address helps confirm your identity - a key part of credit checks.

Visit your local council’s website to register. It’s quick to do and can improve your score within one reporting cycle.

6. Build a Positive Credit History

If you’ve never used credit, lenders don’t have enough information to assess your reliability. That can lower your chances of approval.

Ways to build history:

• ·       Put utility bills or a phone plan in your name
• ·       Get a credit-builder card or small loan
• ·       Always pay on time

In 90 days, you can start creating a trustworthy credit profile.

7. Break Financial Links That No Longer Apply

If you've shared credit (like a loan or joint account) with someone in the past, their financial behaviour could still affect your score.

If you're no longer financially connected, ask the credit reference agency for a financial disassociation. Removing these links can help clean up your credit report.

8. Don’t Close Old Accounts

Closing old credit accounts may seem like a good idea, but it can actually lower your score.

Why it matters:

• ·       Reduces your overall credit limit
• ·       Shortens your credit history

Unless the account has fees or encourages overspending, keep it open - even if you rarely use it.

9. Check Your Credit Score Monthly

Make checking your credit score a monthly habit. It helps you track progress, spot changes, and stay motivated.

Use a free credit score checker to monitor updates and stay informed without overchecking. Monthly is enough to stay on top of trends.

10. Avoid Payday Loans and Risky Credit Products

High-interest loans like payday loans can harm your score, even if you repay on time. Lenders may see them as a sign of financial trouble.

Use safer alternatives like:

• ·       Credit-builder cards
• ·       Secured credit
• ·       Low-interest personal loans

These show responsible borrowing and help your score long term.

Final Thoughts: Be Consistent, Not Perfect

There’s no trick to fixing your credit - just consistent, smart habits. These simple changes, if followed for 90 days, can significantly improve your score and put you in a better financial position for the future.