There is so much more that you can do once you’ve gone through the process of getting your credit score to make sure that you are in the savviest financial position you can possibly be in – and none of it will cost you a cent.

1. Check it

Credit scores and credit files are used by banks, lenders, telcos and other credit providers to make decisions about you. Now you have access to this information. So take the time to go through your credit report and make sure everything on there is legitimate and applies to you. Is there anything on there that doesn’t seem right? Take action to get these things removed at no cost by contacting your credit provider.Find out how to get incorrect things removed from your credit report >Find out how the scores are calculated >

… regularly

Your credit file and hence your credit score can change very quickly so it pays to keep on top of things. Credit Savvy provides you with the tools to easily track and monitor your credit reputation, saving you time and worry.

To make this as easy as possible we will send you a monthly score update and alerts when anything new is added to your file. Plus, it’s a good habit to log in regularly and check your score the same way you check your bank accounts to make sure everything is as it should be.

2. Compare it

Finding out where you stand is the key to utilising your score. Using Credit Savvy’s Credit index tool, you can track your score over time and see how your score stacks up against the whole country, your state, postcode, age group and more.

3. Use it

A good credit score could give you more bargaining power when negotiating the terms of your contract with your credit provider. You may be able to negotiate a lower interest rate or have some fees and charges waived.

Knowledge is power and by knowing your score you’ll have that extra bit of confidence when speaking to your lender. Some lenders have special rates or reduced fees for those of you with a good credit history, so the better your credit score, the more you could save!

4. Learn from it

Research shows that only 2 out of 10 Australians currently know their credit score or have accessed their credit report. You may be surprised to see the sorts of things that get listed on your report (e.g. credit applications that you didn’t end up taking out, or utility bills that you forgot to pay) which can result in your score being lower than you expected it to be. Learning about the factors that can have an impact on your credit report and avoiding these when possible will put you in the best possible credit worthiness position for the future.

Credit Savvy’s top tips are:

• Be careful about constantly switching credit card providers • Notify your credit providers of your new address when you move • Research and compare products thoroughly before applying for credit and only apply when you’re sure it’s the product for you – start comparing now • Consider setting up direct debits to help ensure bills are paid on time • Protect your identity from fraud • Get your free credit score at Credit Savvy and monitor it regularly