Your credit score affects everything from mortgage rates to insurance premiums. A higher score can save you tens of thousands of dollars over your lifetime.

Pay down credit card balances. Credit utilization is the second most important factor. Keep it below 30%, ideally below 10%.

Never miss a payment. Payment history is the number one factor. Set up autopay for at least the minimum on every account.

Do not close old accounts. The length of your credit history matters. Keep your oldest card open.

Dispute errors on your report. About 1 in 5 credit reports contain errors. Check yours and dispute anything inaccurate.