Because the healthiest relationships start with trust and that includes your financial one.
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice. See Lexington Law’s editorial disclosure for more information.
Between flowers, dinners, gifts, and weekend getaways, relationships can also put pressure on your wallet and your credit.
Whether you’re with a partner or single and showing yourself ‑a little self-care, prioritizing your credit ‑is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your future self.
Here are 14 ways to show your credit some real love this month.
1. Check in on your credit report
Healthy relationships require honesty. The same goes for credit. Review your credit reports at least once a quarter for accuracy, outdated information, or unfair negative items that may be holding your score back
2. Set a date with your budget
Even a 20-minute weekly or monthly “money date” can help you better understand where your money is going and where you want it to go. Use this time to check in on your checking and savings accounts, review recent spending, and make sure upcoming bills are on track. It’s also a great opportunity to glance at your investments or retirement accounts to stay connected to your long-term goals. Think of it as quality time with your finances.
3. Pay at least the minimum on time
Payment history is one of the most important factors in your credit score. Even one late payment can have a negative impact. Paying at least the minimum amount by the due date helps you avoid late fees, penalty interest rates, and negative marks on your credit report. Setting up autopay or calendar reminders can make staying on track much easier.
4. Show your credit card balances some affection
High credit utilization can weigh your score down. . Aim to keep balances well below your credit limits, and if possible, pay them down throughout the month instead of waiting for the statement due date. Even small reductions can help improve utilization over time.
5. Send a little love to old accounts
The length of your credit history matters because it shows lenders how long you’ve been managing credit. Older accounts add stability to your credit profile, so closing them can shorten your history and potentially lower your score. If an older account has no annual fee, consider keeping it open and using it occasionally to keep it active.
6. Unsubscribe from temptations
Sale emails and one click shopping make impulse spending easy. Removing temptations can help you stick to your financial goals without feeling deprived.
7. Build an emergency fund — even a tiny one
Unexpected expenses are one of the most common reasons people rely on credit cards. An emergency fund helps break that cycle. Start by setting aside $20 a month to begin building your emergency fund and help reduce future reliance on high interest‑ debt.
8. Celebrate small, meaningful financial wins
Paid off a balance? Avoided an impulse buy? Increased your credit score even a few points? Celebrate it. Progress builds momentum.
9. Talk openly about money with your partner
Financial transparency strengthens relationships. Discuss credit goals, spending habits, and any existing debt so you can plan together. Whether you keep finances separate or shared, being transparent builds trust and supports healthier financial decisions.
10. Be cautious about combining credit
Joint accounts or cosigning is a serious commitment because it ties your credit to someone else’s behavior. If one person misses a payment, both credit reports can be affected. Before sharing credit, talk through expectations, payment responsibilities, and exit plans.
11. Review your credit mix
A healthy blend of credit types can help your score over time. If you’re building or rebuilding credit, consider options designed to help establish positive history like secured cards or credit builder‑ loans.
12. Focus on fairness, not fear
If your credit is struggling, you’re not alone. Mistakes, inaccuracies, or unfair negative items can hold you back, but you have rights and steps you can take to fight them.
13. Choose experiences that don’t stress your wallet
You don’t need expensive gifts to show love. A home‑cooked meal, handwritten note, or thoughtful experience can be just as meaningful without risking high credit card balances.
14. Ask for help when you need it
Every relationship benefits from support. If you’re feeling weighed down by inaccurate or unfair negative items on your credit report, professional help can make all the difference. You don’t have to navigate it alone.
Final Thoughts: Give Your Credit the Love It Deserves
Focus on the relationship that impacts nearly every financial opportunity in your future: your credit. Small actions today can lead to lasting financial confidence and more room for the things (and people) you love.