I was hoping for a nice increase but not this much. My EX score had jumped 27 points per CCT from 647 to 674. I was hoping my TU would jump near 700.
Last March I couldn't even generate a score. I got a secured CC through NFCU.
In June I got a secured loan also through NFCU. They only would allow a 6 month term.
In October I finally got a score. My TU score was around 640. I had 2 Public Records on TU.
In November I paid off a state tax lien. TU dropped it off my report. My TU score jumped to 659.
In December I went on a mini-app spree. I got 3 new CC. I also made the last payment on my loan.
In January 2016 I paid the price. TU score fell to 643. I picked myself up, brushed myself off, and went back to work.
I got another secured loan. I paid down my balances.
In February my scores were TU 638, EX 647, EQ 654. My balances were paid down to 3%. My AAoA was .3 years.
In February I called Transunion to get an EE for my BK13. They granted it.
In March my scores were TU 719, EX 674, EQ 683. My balances were paid down to 2%. My AAoA was .4 years.
So what have I learned?
You don't need a lot of cards. You do need to keep the balances down on the cards you have. I PIF all cards but one and keep that card under 9% just like you have taught me.
I worked to clean up the reports.
I have also found you really don't need a huge credit line. My total credit line is $5,900. That is not a misprint. Plus $1000 is actually mine from my secured credit card.
Keeping your INQs down is important. It may only be 5-10 points but they count.
My thanks to those on the myFICO forums for the great information. I also want to thank those who have shared their inspiring stories. It really helps to hear good news when your scores have fallen. I hope this post gives inspiration to others.
Here is my Walmart TU FICO 8 score progression.
