How to Use Credit Cards to Improve Your Credit Score (15 Steps)

10. Use Credit Card Tools to Track Your Progress

Most modern credit cards come with free credit monitoring tools. These tools help you understand how your spending and payments impact your score in real time.

For instance:

• Discover Scorecard (free FICO score updates monthly)
• Chase Credit Journey (gives VantageScore and credit tips)
• American Express MyCredit Guide (alerts for credit changes)

Use these tools to see how changes — like lowering your balance or paying earlier — influence your credit rating over time.