Before you start on this campaign, you should first know that it doesn't look good on your credit history to have a lot of credit applications and you need to avoid this if at all possible. However, if you make several applications within a week or two, they are looked on as one, and won't count against you in the same way - they are viewed simply as shopping for the best rate for one loan or credit requirement.



An easy way to establish creditworthiness is to use a cosigner. Choose a cosigner with a long history of good credit. Get permission from a cosigner for your access to their credit. Becoming an authorized user on an already established account with a good history can help boost your credit rating.

If the account is older, it will reflect well on your credit report, once it appears there. If you only wish to establish credit and not use your cosigner's, you don't even need to get a card. This way, your friend's information and billing statements remain private, while benefiting your score because the good credit history is associated with you now. If you do use the cosigner's credit, be careful with it, as mistakes can destroy your cosigner's credit as easily as it can destroy yours.

Another way of achieving a good score quickly, which is possibly the oldest technique around, is to open secured credit card accounts, using and paying them back regularly. It's suggested that you open about three accounts in succession, borrowing money on each that you put into a separate bank account that you use to pay them back in installments.

While this is a great option, it is not free. Cash deposits are required for secured accounts. You will also be responsible for the interest and any fees associated with the account. At first, you score will be lower, since you will have to access your credit history to apply. After a few months, you will increase your score for paying on time and earning the credit card company a little interest, which they like.

Most people like to pay off the balance each month, but little do they know, this is not a way to get a better score. Leaving some balance on the card earns a higher score. It shows that you can handle some burden, while maintaining expenses. Credit card companies like this, as that is how they earn their money. Try to keep the balance at less than 25% of available credit on each line. It will definitely help your score if you keep your balance percentage low.

Finally, always remember to make your payments in good time, as late payments count heavily against your credit score. If you are determined to increase credit score, you may want to make a habit of paying bills when you receive them, rather than trying to leave the payments until the final week, so that you don't risk mail delays upsetting your careful work. If you follow the directions above, you may just be surprised how much you can increase credit score in a few months.