Hand holding blank cardIf you are concerned about your credit score, there is new information about what credit scoring companies deem important. One change that is being made is that there is a significantly more negative importance on a person that carries their credit balance near the limit. Experts are suggesting that people try to keep all balances owed near 30% of available credit. Another important fact is that you should never close an account with a zero balance. If you close the account, it can alter your total Debt to Credit ratio. It works in your favor to have a long credit history. Also, do not apply for too many credit cards, especially from companies that do not set a spending limit.  To raise your score, always pay your debts ON TIME. Your payment history makes up 35% of your score. A late payment can actually drop your score by up to 100 points and these late payments could last on your report for seven years. Bankruptcies last for ten years. If your score is below 620, people assume you are a bad risk dooming you to credit denial, sub prime interest rates, higher home insurance premiums, and possible checks form landlords withholding a lease. To order a free report go to annualcreditreport.com.