Paying off question

[SSH0126]

Okay so I am looking to build my credit. I have been told and have read that you should pay the balance off in full each month but when? After the bill comes out or before the statement cut off date? 

Also should I only charge 10% or less each month? on each card. 

Thanks in advance 

[somotao]

You should strive to pay your balance off before your statement date. your balance at statement date is usually what is reported to the credit agencies.

[SSH0126]

So it is not bad to show a zero balance month after month and doing so will allow you to gain points? 

I thought it was good to show some activity correct me if i am wrong. 

[nicholasyud]

1 card report balance and the rest $0.

Rotate them if needed.

Maximum score possible.

[SSH0126]

okay and the amount should be no more than 7% or 10%? 

[SnackTrader]

Just never pay interest. 

http://ficoforums.myfico.com/t5/Credit-Cards/Best-ratio-of-balance-for-multiple-cards/m-p/1898337#M5...

[Gunnar419]

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@SSH0126 wrote:

okay and the amount should be no more than 7% or 10%? 

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Yes, that's what you let report. You can actually spend a lot more than that -- as long as you pay it off before the monthly statement cuts.

Some people who are new to credit and/or want to keep balances low will pay their cards once a week -- or even pay after every purchase. This can be especially helpful for people whose cards have low credit limits.

[SSH0126]

Basically 9% and below

[SSH0126]

So if I have three card let two report as 0 or 1 percent and let the third one report as 9% or lower. ???

[SnackTrader]

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@SSH0126 wrote:

So if I have three card let two report as 0 or 1 percent and let the third one report as 9% or lower. ???

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As each of the 4 links I provided you state: generally having multiple cards report a balance will lower a score compared to only one reporting a balance.