LENGTH OF ESTABLISHED CREDIT (15 percent)

The longer you’ve had credit accounts higher you will score in this area. The age of your oldest account and average age of all your accounts are used in determining your score. Old accounts that have gone unused are also considered. The key to a higher score: Establish good credit and keep accounts active.

APPLICATIONS FOR NEW CREDIT (10 percent)

Opening multiple credit accounts within a short period of time represents a greater risk of becoming overextended. Each time you apply for credit an inquiry is made into your credit history and these inquiries show up in your credit report. A high number of credit inquiries will lower your score.

Some inquiries are not considered in your score. These include: requests by you for your credit report, inquiries from companies for pre-approved offers or companies that already do business with you, along with inquiries from potential employers. Some requests for credit are treated as a single inquiry especially when you are shopping for best loan rate. The key to a higher score: Only apply for and open new credit accounts when you need them.

YOUR CREDIT MIX (10 percent)

This category examines types of credit accounts you have and how many of each. Can a person have too many accounts? Yes and no. It really depends on whether you have an established credit history or no credit history at all. The key to a higher score: Open credit accounts only if you intend to use them.

Don’t despair if you have a low score or are just beginning to establish credit. Your credit score will change for better or worse depending on how well you understand and use these five keys to your advantage in planning your financial future.

3. Take classes, take up a hobby or acquire a skill. How do your spend most of your time? Do you waste valuable hours lamenting in self-pity, bad luck or a disadvantaged set of circumstances? Or will you take active control to resolve situation?

If there is an interest there is a class for it. And now that there's internet taking a class is just as easy as leisurely clicking a link. There are many available classes that are free, or via email and some that may cost a bill or two to enter a site.

Or if you'd prefer, take a class at local colleges or universities which offer that immediate one on one support available through that type of arrangement. Your local library or museum may schedule classes or speakers covering a variety of subjects, too. Some locations even award certificates after completion if that is your requirement.

Increasing your knowledge or skills over long term not only provides confidence and mastery of skills developed by use of what is called putting in your "sweat equity" by taking necessary courses and steps, but it will also provide flexibility by creating for you a new source of income using your newly developed talent(s) or expertise. You may offer for a fee a service, provide a product (or product line),to sell your knowledge or in any of combinations listed through your choice of method at a profit giving you unlimited possibilities.

When used separately or together above suggestions work effectively over time giving to you increase that you've longed desired. Use your spare time moments to work for you effortlessly and automatically...even with family, friends or loved ones.