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Raising your credit score can be one of the most beneficial steps that you can take to improve your financial situation. Not only will a higher credit score make you a more attractive borrower, but it can also help you save money on interest payments and other lending fees. Here are some actionable tips to help you in boosting your credit score.

1. Pay bills on time. Payment history makes up 35 percent of your credit score, so it's the most important factor. Late payments, collections, and delinquent accounts can lower your score and make it harder to build credit. Make sure to make your payments on time, every time.

2. Pay down your debt. Having a high debt-to-credit ratio, often referred to as your “credit utilization ratio,” can lower your credit score. It's important to keep your debt levels in check by paying off as much as possible.

3. Check your credit report regularly. Checking your credit report is important to make sure that all the information reported is accurate. You should review your credit report at least once a year to make sure all of the information is accurate and correct any errors you may find.

4. Dispute any errors. If you find any errors on your credit report, it is important to dispute them immediately. First, contact the credit reporting agency and file a dispute. If they don’t respond or take any action, then contact the creditor and request the information be corrected.

5. Monitor your credit score. Tracking your credit score is an important way to recognize any changes that take place. Doing so helps you keep an eye on any suspicious activity, such as identity theft, as well as any improvements or decreases in your credit score.

These are just a few tips for how to raise your credit score. While raising your credit score takes time, it can be done with some financial discipline and planning. Taking these steps to improve your credit will give you access to better loan and credit card rates which can save you money and improve your financial health.