1. You have 3 credit reports. Since there are three nationally recognized credit reporting agencies: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion - each creates its own report by gathering information from many of the same and sometimes different data sources.

2. Your credit report is constantly changing. Reporting agencies update their files daily. And companies reporting update these Reporting agencies at different times. So it is quite possible for your report to change from one day to the next.

3. You must contest incorrect information in your report.  You are entitled to challenge any information in your credit report that you believe to be inaccurate. Important note, however, you should check all three reports and correct each individually.

4. Negative records stay on your credit report for 7 years. The good news - - your good history stays there indefinitely.

5. Co-signing impacts your credit. Remember, if you are obligated on a loan as a co-buyer, it will show on your credit report. Should the other co-buyer default or pay late, it will be reported as if you did. Bottom line, think twice before co-signing.

6. Maxing out credit cards lowers your score. Most credit reporting agencies will tell you that keeping your balance below 35% of the limit is the key.

7. Closing old accounts is a bad idea.  Your credit report is made up of your credit history; so closing an old account could make that history appear shorter. If in doubt, close the newer account.

8. Small fines and old debts can haunt you. Review your credit report for old debts such as library fines or possibly that Compact Disc selection you ordered.

9. Checking your own score has no affect. Don’t worry about looking at your own score - it won’t bring it down and it doesn’t count as an “inquiry.”

10. If you don’t like your score, change your behavior. Remember the definition of insanity - expecting different results from the same behavior.