08/14/2026
Today is National Financial Awareness Day and we wanted to share some quick tips on how to build and maintain an excellent credit score. Your credit score can impact your ability to qualify for loans, secure competitive interest rates, and reach important financial goals.
➡Have several active credit cards
If you are building credit, consider starting with a beginner-friendly card. As your credit history grows, having several open accounts and using them responsibly can help demonstrate good credit management.
Consider a credit card with OSFCU! osfcu.com/visa-credit-cards
➡Work on paying down debt
Choose a strategy that works for you. Showing the credit bureaus that you’re on track to pay off your debt can do wonders for your score.
➡Pay your bills on time
Paying credit card bills when, or before, they’re due is a major factor in your score. Remember, you can set up automatic monthly payments for your bills so you’re always on time.
➡Bring down your credit utilization ratio
Your credit utilization ratio refers to the amount of available credit you use. Keep your utilization under 30%, or even 10% if you can. A lower utilization rate can show lenders that you are managing your available credit responsibly.
Building excellent credit does not happen overnight. Stay consistent, manage your debt wisely, pay on time, and keep your balances low. Your future self will thank you!