 TITLE: Can an Installment Loan Help Improve Your Credit Score? CONTENT: Using Installment Loans to Improve Credit\n-----------------------------------------\nIt's wise to only apply for the credit you need. Applications for new credit can have a brief negative effect on your credit score, and it's risky to take on new debt without the means to pay it off.\nBut if you were already in the market for an installment loan to buy a new car or home or attend college, improving credit can be a valuable secondary outcome of taking out a loan. Make all monthly payments on time so you can make the most of the credit-boosting opportunity an installment loan provides. END