It seems counterintuitive, but if done correctly, adding more debt can actually improve your 609 credit score. The same can happen when negative information comes off your credit report. That, of course, seems more obvious.
Combined with a slow, methodical approach, both of these tactics did the trick for CredEvolv client Laura H.!
Laura came to the CredEvolv platform with 609 credit score. She established two new tradelines while her credit counselor coached her on how to use them. Her counselor also had several negative accounts removed from her credit report. Laura stuck with her success plan for 13 months and voila! She achieved a 699 credit score and her lender submitted her home loan application to underwriting.
What is a tradeline on a credit report?
A tradeline is an industry term for a credit account that a lender reports to a credit bureau. Each credit account has its own tradeline, which includes information about the account, the creditor, and the type of credit, such as the account balance, payment history, and account status.
A person can have multiple tradelines on their credit report, one for each credit account in their name. Credit bureaus use tradelines to calculate a borrower’s credit score and assess their creditworthiness. Adding tradelines can have a positive effect on your 609 credit score by way of improved credit history, payment history, credit utilization, and more.
What can and can’t be removed from my credit report?
In a past Credit Education blog, we explored an essential topic: understanding what can and cannot be legally removed from your credit report. The key to strengthening your 609 credit score isn’t about erasing past financial decisions. It’s about ensuring accuracy and taking meaningful steps to build a healthier credit future.
Unfortunately, misinformation about credit repair is everywhere. Some companies claim they can eliminate all negative marks from your report. That’s simply not how it works. In reality, removing valid negative information is against the law.
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), credit bureaus are required to report only accurate, verifiable information. If you’ve missed payments or defaulted on a loan, those records may legally stay on your report for up to seven years. Bankruptcies, on the other hand, can remain for as long as 10 years.
At CredEvolv, we believe in full transparency. The fact is, no individual or company has the legal ability to erase legitimate negative items from your credit report. However, our platform provides access to certified, nonprofit credit counselors who can help you dispute errors or outdated information that might be unfairly dragging down your 609 credit score.
Our counseling partners specialize in identifying inaccuracies and unfair reporting practices. By correcting mistakes, they help ensure that your credit report is a true reflection of your financial standing. This gives you a real opportunity to improve your 609 credit score over time like Laura did!
Read more credit success stories here!