 TITLE: What Is the Average Credit Score in the U.S.? CONTENT: How to Increase Your Credit Score\n---------------------------------\nImproving your FICO® Score can be helpful before applying for a new line of credit such as a credit card, mortgage or personal loan. A higher score can help you secure better terms and lower interest rates available. Here are some actions that can help improve your FICO® Score:\n*   **Pay all of your bills on time.** This will help ensure your payment history is unblemished and shows lenders that you have a history of paying on time.\n*   **Pay down credit card balances.** Keeping balances on your credit cards low will help keep your credit utilization at a good level.\n*   **Apply for credit only when you really need it.**\n*   **Enroll in Experian Boost™† .** Adding your positive cellphone, utility and streaming service payment could help boost your credit scores instantly.\nKnow your financial profile to understand what lenders see when they look at your credit report so you can make sure to get the best interest rates and terms on loans and credit cards. END