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

8. Monitor Your Credit Reports Regularly

Even if you’re managing your cards perfectly, errors on your credit report can still harm your score.

You’re entitled to one free report every year from each major bureau: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion — available via AnnualCreditReport.com.

When reviewing your report, check for:

• Incorrect payment statuses
• Accounts you didn’t open
• Wrong credit limits or balances
• Inaccurate personal information

If you spot an error, you can dispute it directly through the credit bureau’s online portal. Correcting errors can quickly boost your score.