1
What describes you?
3
Your score trajectory
Score projection
Two paths — same card, different habits
Target by
~18 months
700+
Following this plan
Minimum payments only
The gap between the two paths at month 18 is roughly 100 points. That difference unlocks Chase Sapphire and Amex Gold — versus staying stuck with no rewards access.
4
18-month roadmap
1
Now
Apply and activate
Score target
Day 1
- Submit your application and get approved
- Set up autopay for the full statement balance immediately
- Make one small purchase ($5–$20) to activate account reporting
2
~2 months
Your score appears
Score target
~530–560
- Credit bureaus receive your first payment report
- A score file opens — your credit number exists for the first time
- Check Credit Karma or Experian Free to see your starting number
3
~6 months
Lock in the habit
Score target
~615–635
- Keep your balance under 10% of your credit limit at all times
- Pay the full statement balance every month — not just the minimum
- Consider a second card to diversify your credit mix
4
~12 months
Good credit unlocked
Score target
~650–670
- You qualify for most rewards cards now
- Targets: Chase Freedom Unlimited, Discover it, Wells Fargo Active Cash
- Keep your original account open forever — history length matters
5
~18 months
Premium tier
Score target
700+
- Chase Sapphire Preferred and Amex Gold are realistic targets
- Sign-up bonuses worth $750–$1,200 in year one
- Use the paycheck calculator to find your optimal card
Use the paycheck calculator to find your exact card at each tier
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