If you took advantage of getting your free FICO credit score ^[2], congratulations! You now know what lenders know about you and you’re in a much better position to take charge of your personal financial situation. But did you know there are ways you could kill your credit?

The problem with credit scores is that most people don’t even know they have a problem until after the fact. Your credit score ^[2] is an asset, and like many assets, you can damage or even lose them if you aren’t careful. And if some rich guy on the radio claims you don’t need a credit score ^[2], remember that it’s used by employers, utility companies, and landlords too. A good score only helps you, whether you use credit or not.

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What behaviors can kill your credit score?

1. Failure to pay your bills

On time payments are the best way to build your credit score ^[2] and failing to pay on time is the best way to kill it.

2. Neglect

Neglecting to ever check your score or your credit report means that lenders are sharing information about you that you don’t know. Don’t bury your head in the sand. Don’t neglect your credit score ^[2] and don’t neglect to check it.