Jun 10, 2020 / Credit

How Long Does It Take to Rebuild Credit?

When life throws expensive little surprises your way, your credit might need some extra love later on. Maybe you had to pivot during a tough season, cover unexpected costs, or focus on getting through a lot all at once. Sound like your situation? Don’t sweat it! 

At Utah First, financial setbacks don’t define you. We’re big believers in fresh starts, judgment-free support, and helping you feel good about what comes next. Rebuilding credit takes time, but the exciting part is that progress can start happening earlier than you might expect. 

If you’re wondering what the timeline could look like, let’s break it down!

Your Credit Comeback Timeline

While everyone’s credit comeback timeline looks a little different, here’s a general idea of what progress can look like when you’re putting in the work.

1 to 3 Months (Quick Wins)

Since credit bureaus update regularly, those small, positive changes add up quickly. Paying on time and lowering high credit card balances may start boosting your score in just a month or two! Who doesn’t love a little instant gratification?

6 to 12 Months (Building Consistency)

This is where the magic of showing up for yourself starts to kick in. A strong track record of on-time payments can seriously strengthen your credit health over the course of a year!

1 to 7 Years (The Long Game)

Bigger financial bumps in the road, like collections or missed payments, can stick around on your credit report for up to seven years. But thankfully, their impact matters less over time. Every smart financial step you take now helps outweigh the past and move your score in a healthier direction!

How Utah First Tools Make Your Credit Comeback Easier

Rebuilding your credit is a gradual process, but the right resources make it way easier to stay on top of your goals and monitor progress. That’s why Utah First gives you all the tools you need to stay informed and in control!

• Digital Banking Credit Intelligence: Keep tabs on your score in real time, opt into helpful alerts, and get personalized insights to stay in control and moving toward healthier credit! 
• Digital Banking Budget Tool: Watch your spending, keep everyday finances in check, and work toward your goals with confidence from wherever you are.
• Debt Consolidation Loans: When you’ve got multiple due dates and payments slicing your budget up too many ways, a debt consolidation loan can help you free up funds with one manageable payment and one due date.
• Courtesy Pay: Life doesn’t always have perfect timing. For just $14.95 (Utah’s lowest overdraft protection), eligible members can use Courtesy Pay to cover qualifying transactions when funds come up short. You’ll avoid declined transactions and have a little extra breathing room for when life happens!

Let’s Keep the Good Momentum Going

If there’s one thing we hope you take away from all this, it’s that a lower credit score isn’t forever. Rebuilding credit might not happen overnight, but positive progress adds up fast — especially when you stay consistent and give yourself a little grace along the way!

And as a friendly reminder, Utah First is always in your corner. Whether you’ve got questions, need guidance, or just want help figuring out your next best move, we’re here with all the support and none of the judgment. Reach out online or visit one of our branches to chat with us today. 

You’ve got this!