As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to take a quick financial checkup — starting with your credit score. Your score tells lenders how responsibly you manage credit, and it can impact everything from loan approvals to interest rates.

Here are 3 simple tips to help you monitor and protect your score as you head into 2026:

1. Review your credit report regularly.

You’re entitled to a free credit report every year from each of the three major bureaus. Look for errors or unfamiliar accounts that could hurt your score.

2. Avoid opening too many new accounts at once.

Each new credit inquiry can cause a small dip in your score. Instead, space out applications and focus on building a strong history with the credit you already have.

3. Keep balances low and payments on time. Even small changes, like paying down a bit more each month or setting up auto-pay, can make a big difference over time.

A little attention now can set you up for a stronger financial start to the new year.