Low credit?
Here's the playbook.
Your score is a habit, not a verdict. Follow these steps and most Canadians see real, steady gains within 6 to 12 months. No gimmicks, no credit repair scams.
The 6 steps that actually move your score
Pay on time, every time
Payment history is ~35% of your score, the single biggest factor. Set autopay for at least the minimum on every card and loan. One missed payment can cost you dozens of points.
Keep utilization under 30%
If your card limit is $1,000, keep the balance under $300. Below 10% is even better. High utilization quietly drags your score down even if you pay in full.
Use a credit-building tool that reports to the bureaus
If you have thin or damaged credit, a product that reports your activity to Equifax and TransUnion builds history fast. KOHO's credit building feature does this with no hard credit check, so it works even if you've been declined elsewhere. See how it works →
Don't close your oldest card
Length of credit history helps you. Keep old accounts open (use them once in a while) so your average account age keeps climbing.
Dispute errors on your report
Pull your free report from Equifax and TransUnion. Errors are common, and fixing a wrong late-payment or a stranger's account can jump your score quickly. It's free to dispute.
Apply slowly
Every hard inquiry dings you a little. Space out applications and only apply for credit you actually need.
Start building your credit →
FAQ
How long until my score goes up?
Most people who stick with these habits see meaningful improvement within 6 to 12 months. Results depend on your starting point and history.
Does credit building hurt my score?
No. Tools like KOHO's report positively and use no hard credit check to start.
Are credit-repair companies worth it?
Usually not. Anything they do, you can do yourself for free. Be wary of anyone promising a guaranteed number.