My 3 FICO scores drop an average of 11 points each when none of my credit cards report a balance. They also drop a few points if more than 2 cards report a balance.
So, to maximize my FICO scores, I let 1 or 2 of my dozens of cards report each cycle. To ensure that number, I push over-payments to my cards via Alliant CU.
BillPays scheduled before 11 pm Eastern show up the next morning on my cards. I also have AutoPay of statement balance set for all of my cards that offer that service. Just in case.
It?s a game of trying for the highest FICO scores possible while still applying for new cards and their benefits.
Current Scores:
Equifax FICO (300-850) = 816 Experian FICO (300-850) = 823 TransUnion FICO (300-850) = 825
CreditSesame NES (360-840) = 828