5 Quick Credit Score Wins for Military Members

Credit scores have gotten complicated with all the different factors and scoring models flying around. As someone who’s watched my own credit through multiple PCS moves and deployments, I learned everything there is to know about quick credit wins. Today, I will share it all with you.

1. Set Up Automatic Payments

Payment history makes up 35% of your credit score. That’s what makes auto-pay endearing to us military folks — with deployments and PCS moves disrupting your routine, automatic payments ensure you never miss a due date. Set them up for at least the minimum payment on every account. I learned this one the hard way after getting hit with a late payment during a field exercise.

2. Check Your Free Annual Reports

Active duty service members can request free credit reports weekly from AnnualCreditReport.com. Review them for errors, especially after PCS moves when address changes can cause mix-ups. I found an error on mine after my last move that would have cost me 30 points.

3. Keep Old Accounts Open

Probably should have led with this section, honestly. Credit history length matters. That credit card you opened at 18? Keep it open and use it occasionally. Closing old accounts shortens your credit history and can hurt your score.

4. Request a Credit Limit Increase

Lower credit utilization improves your score. If you’ve had a card for at least six months with on-time payments, request a limit increase. This lowers your utilization ratio without changing your spending. It’s one of the easiest wins available.

5. Become an Authorized User

If your spouse or parent has excellent credit, becoming an authorized user on their account can boost your score. Just ensure they have a low balance and perfect payment history.

These simple steps can add 50+ points to your credit score over the next few months. Start with one action today.