How can I fix my credit score?

There are a few things that you can fix quickly, and a few things that only time can heal.

Firstly, get any credit lines paid down. Even if you pay on time every month, if you stay close to your credit limit, it hurts your score. Even using up to 80% of your credit limit can be damaging.

Pay off any outstanding bills. Take care of anything hanging out on your credit report.

After everything is paid off, you can request that it is removed from your report. Companies do not have to remove things, but some of them will cut you a break if you took care of your debt. It's not one you can count on, but it is worth the try.

After that, you have to maintain it. Keep your available credit nice and open. Keep paying on time. Don't get anything new on your record. If you can do this for a while, your score will start climbing.