Since the single most important factor in credit score is payment history, using credit and paying off your balances on time will have the greatest impact on your score. Carrying a balance every month may incur interest charges, so if you can, pay off the cards in full and on time.

The best way to build a solid credit score is to manage all your accounts properly. Best practices include paying all your credit obligations on time every month, applying for credit only when needed, and keeping balances on credit cards as low as you possibly can if you cannot pay them in full each month.