Markia Brown: How To Improve Your Credit Score Fast | Ep. 197

I low key hate when people ask me that question... people are so focused on the number and not where that number came from.

• Markia explains that people want 'tricks' to boost numbers rather than understanding credit as a representation of payment ability. She references cultural messaging (Lil Baby lyrics, 'credit is a scam' trends) that discourage credit building.

It's going to take a lot more than you just throwing money at me to fix your credit. We got to talk about your mindset.

• Markia shares that clients expect her to 'make their credit look cute' with money alone. She requires Zoom calls to convey seriousness and asks the critical question: 'What are you willing to do to get where you want to be?' She emphasizes her credibility comes from lived experience, not textbooks.

• Step one: Pull your credit report (now available weekly since COVID via annualcreditreport.com). Know what's on it, not just your score. Learn to identify derogatory information and balance discrepancies across bureaus.

• The five scoring categories: Payment history (35%), Credit utilization (30%), Length of credit history (15%), Mix of accounts (10%), New credit/inquiries (10%). Work through each section systematically.

Pay your bills on time is probably the most underrated piece of advice... life happens. And we get that.

• Don't avoid creditors when struggling. Many have hardship programs (Victoria's Secret payment coverage, car payment deferrals). Contact them BEFORE becoming late. Late payments aren't reported until day 31.

They just want the money. They would rather work with you... than go to court and repossess the car.

• Young adults lacking credit history can become authorized users on a parent's card with perfect payment history and low utilization. However, monitor this - remove yourself if the account's high utilization hurts your score.

• Don't obsessively check your score daily. Understand what causes fluctuations. Close unused cards proactively rather than letting creditors close them unexpectedly.

• TikTok (@themoneyplug.co) has 200+ videos. YouTube channel 'WWTMPD' (What Would The Money Plug Do) archives live sessions. Join email list at MarkeiaBrown.com for credit tips and news alerts.