If you've ever watched TV's "The Biggest Loser," you know that it's easier to maintain a healthy weight now than try to lose weight and overcome possible health conditions later.

The same is true of your credit history, which affects everything from your purchasing power to your ability to get a reasonable loan rate or land a job. Building a healthy credit history from the start – rather than trying to overcome mistakes later – can save you time, energy and money.

To get an idea of your credit history, potential lenders will examine your credit score. A high credit score can make it easier to get a credit card or loan, and may result in the lender setting a lower interest rate. To boost your credit score, remember these tips:

1. Pay your bills on time. Sometimes automatic bill pay or payment transfer options are options.
2. Pay down your debt. Consider a refinance loans to consolidate your debt. A member service officer can also help you create a debt management plan.
3. Reconsider closing accounts. You may be tempted to close an old credit card account because you no longer use the card. But the longer responsible borrowing history you have, the better your score.
4. Think twice about opening accounts. Applying for a lot of credit at once can harm your credit score.
5. Fix errors. Review your official records from all three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) and be sure any incorrect information is corrected. You can order a free credit report from each agency once a year at www.annualcreditreport.com.

We can do a loan analysis and recommend help for you to achieve financial fitness and a healthy credit history. Contact us at 623.340.0934 or email korene@wjbradley.com or visit www.klcsloanteam.com to learn more.