Credit mix and account age

Why variety matters

The last 25% of your score comes from two smaller factors. Account age and credit mix.

Age rewards patience. The longer you've had credit, the more trustworthy you look. That's why closing your oldest card is one of the worst moves.

Mix rewards variety. Lenders want to see you can handle different types. A rounded profile scores higher than a narrow one.

Key points

• Never close your oldest card. Even unused, keep it open. If it has an annual fee, downgrade to a no-fee version instead of closing.
• Use dormant cards every few months. One small recurring charge (streaming service) so the issuer doesn't close it for inactivity.
• Ideal mix: 3 to 5 cards + 1 to 2 installment loans. Cards plus an auto or personal loan covers both types.
• Be patient. You can't shortcut age. Open early, keep them open, let time do the work.