I tend to make more than one payment per month on my credit cards accounts. Will this raise my credit scores?
- STA
Dear STA,
Making more than one payment each month on your credit cards won't help increase your credit score. But, the results of making more than one payment might.
What Impacts My Credit Scores the Most?
The number of payments you make each month is not listed in your credit report, and credit scoring systems don't take that into consideration.
However, two things are likely to happen when you make multiple payments each month. First, the minimum amount you owe will almost certainly be paid each month. That means you won't have any late payments. Making all your payments on time is the most important factor in credit scores.
Second, by making multiple payments, you are likely paying more than the minimum due, which means your balances will decrease faster. Keeping your credit card balances low will result in a low utilization rate, which is good for your score. Your credit utilization rate, also referred to as your utilization ratio, is the second most important factor in credit scores.
Making Multiple Credit Card Payments Can Be Beneficial
Paying your credit card balances in full each month isn't just good for your credit scores. It also means you won't be spending money on interest fees. Ideally, you should pay your credit card balances in full each month.
Keep in mind that even if you pay your credit card bill in full every month, your credit report may not reflect a zero balance. This is because the amount reported to Experian is typically the balance you see on your billing statement.
For more tips on improving your credit scores, visit our blog.
Thanks for asking.
Jennifer White, Consumer Education Specialist