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Understanding Credit

5 Ways to Build a Healthy Credit History

Building a healthy credit history from the start – rather than trying to overcome mistakes later – can save you time, energy and money. 

To boost your credit score, remember these tips:


  1. Pay your bills on time. Learn more about our bill pay and automatic payment transfer options. Rockland Trust's Online and Mobile Banking make it easy to pay your bills electronically. 

  2. Pay down your debt. Paying off your credit card balances every month is key to a strong credit score. If you do have balances, its important  to pay them down to below 25% of available credit. Consider a home equity loans to consolidate your debt.  A financial counselor 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 your responsible borrowing history, the better your score.

  4. Think twice about opening accounts. Applying for a lot of credit at once can harm your credit score. And every line of credit you apply for will stay on your record for at least seven years, even if the account is only open for a day or two.

  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.

    With healthy rates on savings and low-rate loans, Rockland Trust can help you achieve fiscal fitness and a healthy credit history.

    Contact us at 800.222.2299 or visit a branch near you to learn more.