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If your credit score has taken a hit from overdue bills, you’re not alone. And no, you don’t need a perfect financial situation to start rebuilding.
Here’s how to build better credit even when you’re in the middle of dealing with debt.
1. Keep Something Active (and On Time)
Your payment history is still the #1 factor in your credit score. If you have any account, credit card, phone plan, Buy Now Pay Later, even utilities, that’s active, keep paying it on time if you can.
It won’t erase the past, but it starts creating a new pattern.
2. Use What You’ve Got
Already have a credit card? Lowering the balance by even a little can improve your utilization rate. That helps your score, even if you’re not paying it all off.
You don’t need to bring it to zero. Just lower than last month is progress.
3. Consider Low-Risk Credit Builders
There are tools that let you build credit by paying a small amount monthly toward:
- Your rent (like through apps that report rent to bureaus)
- A self-backed loan you repay slowly
- Monthly subscriptions or bills
⚠️ Just be careful. Some of these charge monthly fees or enroll you in loans you don’t need. If you’re already stretched, focus on the tools that report your existing payments rather than taking on new ones.
4. Focus on What’s Dragging You Down
If your score is mostly hurt by large, overdue debts… you might not be able to build until you deal with the root issue.
Relief was built for this. We help people request savings on debt that’s already behind, no phone calls, no paperwork. And if it helps you lower what you owe, you’re one step closer to breathing room (and better credit).
💡Learn more on the pros and cons of relief programs here.
Reminder: You Don’t Need Perfect Credit to Get Better Credit
You just need to start where you are.
⚠️ Disclaimer: Relief does not provide financial advice. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional financial guidance. Please consult a certified financial planner or advisor for personalized support.
Links to external websites are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Relief is not affiliated with these third-party sites and does not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of their content.
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