If you can get your credit utilization to 30 % or less, prioritize your monthly payments, and have a healthy
mix of credit accounts open, then using your credit card responsibly can help you build your score.
Not only does an installment loan create a
varied mix of credit accounts on your credit report, when you make your payments on time, it helps improve your payment history and credit score too!
In fact, people who have several active tradelines in good standing (no missed payments or maxed out credit), including a good
mix of credit account types and that have been open for at least two years, end up having higher credit scores.
The main factors used in determining your credit score include total credit limit,
mix of credit accounts, amounts owed and other factors.
The mix of credit accounts you have is a minor factor to consider when canceling a card.
The FICO formula rewards consumers who have a good
mix of credit accounts — credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, etc..
You can also build good credit by making loan payments on time, keeping the amount of debt you owe below 30 % and ideally at 10 % of your available credit limit, and adding
a mix of credit accounts over time.
Credit bureaus like to see that you can manage
a mix of credit accounts without relying on, say, credit cards too much.
The mix of your credit accounts is 10 % of your credit score, so having different kinds of accounts, credit card and loans, helps your credit score.
Carry
a mix of credit accounts in your credit portfolio to maximize how high you can get your credit score.
Also considered is
the mix of credit accounts you have (mortgages, credit cards, finance company loans, and so on).
Credit bureaus like to see that you can manage
a mix of credit accounts without relying on, say, credit cards too much.