Letting your debt add up: Only borrow money and use credit cards when you have to. Never use credit cards for regular purchases like groceries or gas. The more you debt adds up, the higher the risk of getting into deep financial trouble.

Making late payments: Late payments look bad on your credit report. Make sure you know when bills are due, and try to mail in your check at least a week before the due date of the bill.

Help from for-profit agencies: There are many companies out there that promise to repair you debt or combine all of your debt into one easy payment. Remember that that are no quick fixes to repairing your credit. If you seek assistance with credit problems, always go with a nonprofit credit-counseling agency. Find a nonprofit agency

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