IMHO, you've put way too much energy in scores. And not enough on actually using your credit and showing use.
Allow some accounts to report usage. Only the CC companies you are currently with know your usage.
Future ones just see scores and almost no credit card use.
I've done some massive apping over that last 4 years. Taking my very thin file with 2 CCs and 3 installment loans, opened and closed. To almost 80 accounts reporting currently.
Last update on my FICO 9 Equifax had me at a 822. Oldest account is only 12 years young.
Stop stressing and just use your credit as intended. Life is way too short.
Allow some accounts to report usage. Only the CC companies you are currently with know your usage.
Future ones just see scores and almost no credit card use.
I've done some massive apping over that last 4 years. Taking my very thin file with 2 CCs and 3 installment loans, opened and closed. To almost 80 accounts reporting currently.
Last update on my FICO 9 Equifax had me at a 822. Oldest account is only 12 years young.
Stop stressing and just use your credit as intended. Life is way too short.
Honestly, if you build a strong enough file it doesn't really matter.
I have to beat my file like a rented mule to move substantially downward: even a stupid recent 60D late on Transunion doesn't even matter, I'm still above even 760 on TU FICO 4 which is the one used for mortgage underwriting and FICO 8 is there too.
Somewhat surprisingly they're not that much below the basically clean files (admittedly TU has zero inquiries and new accounts don't matter there and it's missing my CFA which I'm still waiting to drop off in 2021 sigh) but end of the day it's about doing what works for you. I won't take any account that doesn't have any automatic payment on it and I autopay the minimum. When I get busy or distracted or stupid, it's a simple yet effective financial defense strategy. I don't have the discpline or the patience or the energy to try to pay 4 times a month but if it works for you, go for it.
800 isn't a relevant line, 760 is. Build a decently thick file, play reindeer games with an installment loan (hell just play reindeer games if your lender supports it with your mortgage if you're paying ahead anyway... my USBank auto loan is going to get left with $5 on it for years and I will probably do similar with my mortgage after that) and beyond that only apply for useful things. It's simple and easy to maintain a score once you've worked out what you are willing to do... I am far more lazy than you these days with credit and even still, ain't no trouble even with that dumb late.
