Experian Boost allows homeowners to improve their credit scores with document proof of bill payments. Experian Boost connects to your bank account and allows users to select any utility, phone, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ or HBO bill that was paid in full and on time.

UltraFICO allows homeowners to improve their credit scores through documented sound financial behavior. UltraFICO connects to your checking and savings accounts and checks for a history of positive balances, frequent transactions and periods of consistent cash withdrawals to provide a free UltraFICO score that is typically higher than traditional FICO scores.

When paying off student loans or any other outstanding accounts, don’t pay it off all at once. Making full and timely payments will improve your score more than closing out the account will. Keeping an account with a $0 balance is better than closing it out.

Closing the account will lower your credit limit thus lowering your score and your utilization rate will go up should you have another outstanding credit card or loan.