Affinity partners with Navicore Solutions¹, a trusted nonprofit organization that provides free credit counseling for Affinity members. If you prefer in-person support, Navicore also has an office in New Jersey. Their certified credit counselors work one-on-one with you to help you better understand your credit and develop a personalized plan that fits your life.

Here are practical steps you can take to start rebuilding your credit the right way.

1. Understand what you are working with

Before you focus on improving your score, make sure the information behind it is accurate. Errors on your credit report can drag your score down, even if you’ve been doing everything right. You can get your free credit reports from each of the three major bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com².

Review your reports carefully for anything that looks incorrect, such as accounts you don’t recognize, wrong balances, or late payments that should not be there. If you spot an error, you have the right to dispute it directly with the credit bureau.

2. Make on-time payments your top priority

If you want the biggest impact from one habit, this is it. Payment history carries a lot of weight, and missed payments can drag your score down quickly. The good news is that consistency works in your favor over time.

A few small changes can help you stay on track, like setting up autopay for the minimum payment, using calendar reminders, or picking one day each month to review bills before due dates. If you are behind, catching up as soon as you can is important. The longer a payment stays unpaid, the more difficult it can be to recover.

3. Bring balances down in a manageable way

Your credit score is influenced by how much of your available credit you are using. If your credit cards are close to maxed out, your score can suffer, even if you make payments on time.

If paying off debt feels overwhelming, focus on small wins. Paying more than the minimum payment whenever possible helps reduce interest and speeds up your progress. You can also choose a payoff method that matches your personality, whether that means tackling the smallest balance first for momentum or focusing on the highest interest rate first to save money long-term.

4. Avoid moves that can unintentionally set you back

When you’re trying to improve your credit, it can be tempting to open new accounts or apply for more credit to “boost your score.” Sometimes a new account can help, but too many applications in a short period of time may hurt more than it helps.

You also want to be careful about closing older accounts without thinking it through. Credit history length can matter, and removing accounts can change your overall available credit. If you are unsure what to do, it’s worth getting guidance before making big changes.

5. Watch out for credit repair scams

If someone promises they can erase accurate information from your credit report or raise your score overnight, that is a red flag. Improving credit takes time, and you should never have to pay upfront for results that sound too good to be true.

A reputable credit counselor will explain your options, outline realistic next steps, and help you build a plan that fits your situation.

Repairing your credit takes time, but you don’t have to do it alone. An Affinity Certified Wellbeing Coach³ can help you stay focused on your goals, and Navicore Solutions offers free, confidential credit counseling to help you build a plan that works for you.

This information is for informational purposes only, is intended to provide general guidance, and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Each person's circumstances differ and may not apply to the specific information provided. You should seek the advice of a financial professional, tax consultant, and legal counsel to discuss your particular needs before making any financial or other commitments regarding the matters related to your condition.

¹ Retrieved from: https://www.affinityfcu.com/financial-wellbeing/credit-counseling