Decrease in score???

[vmoore0607]

I had a past due credit card. I paid the balance in full and it caused a decrease in my experian report. It's three points but I need all the points I can get. Someone explain this to me. Thanks

[vertekal]

Was this account in collections? If so, I believe it's due to the change in the recent date of activity. Did you request a PFD (Pay for Delete)? 

[vmoore0607]

No. It was a JC Penney card that I had. I fell behind on payments. I paid it off so it wouldn't go into collections

[Anonymous]

If you paid it to a zero balance that is why. Ideally you use between 1-9% of the availabe credit balance. 

[vmoore0607]

I did pay it to a zero balance and the card is closed. Thanks

[eric19k]

Send GW to creditor. Lates hurting your scores.