Credit Utilization

The share of your available credit limit you are currently using.

Credit utilization is balances divided by limits, and it is one of the largest inputs into a credit score. Scoring models generally treat a low share favourably, and the figure usually reflects the balance on the statement date rather than whether the card is paid off in full afterwards. Paying before the statement closes, or asking for a higher limit, both lower it.

Keeping her credit utilization below a third of the limit helped her score more than paying a day early did.