How can I continue to improve my score? I have 25k to use

[Anonymous]

I have been checking out the forum for a few months but this is my first post.

Here is a quick summary of my credit repair progress.  I began 2015 with a

653 Transunion

646 Equifax,

647 Experian.  

I have been tracking my score through myfico.com.  Right now my scores are as follows:

717 Transunion

674 Equifax

683 Experian.

I have lowered my utilization rate to less than 10% and have paid two of the 4 collection accounts. ($35 and $611).  One of the remaining collection accounts will close July'15 and the other will close next year (May'16).  I do not intend on needing my credit score until late next year (knock on wood).  I have a creditone bank card with $800 limit (went up from $500 a few months ago) and are paying all my student loans on time. I also have a secured loan for $1,000 in good standing.  What are other things that I can do now to improve my score?  I have $25,000 in a savings account.  I have the savings deposited in a credit union that I have used for past 8 years.  It reports to the credit bureaus each month.  Would it be a good idea to open a secured card using some of those funds?  Any other suggestions?  

Thanks!

Jose

[takeshi74]

Always carefully research before addressing unpaid derogs.  Paying them is unlikely to help your scores though they are holding you down.  You really want to negotiate PFD's where possible to remove them from your reports.  Don't overlook the Rebuilding subforum.

[Anonymous]

Your savings account reports to the credit bureaus? Yes, your credit union should be the first place you try for adding a new credit card.