Answer: -My understanding is that you have to start paying on those debts. Start with the ones that are in collection. If it is medical, send the credit bureau a letter explaining the circumstances and ask them to remove this from your report, if you paid it. -Obviously paying off the debts in collection is the first thing you need to do. It doesn’t matter if you pay the original creditor or the collections office. When you request a copy of your credit report you will get a couple dispute forms (or you can go to the credit bureau's website and print one off. Put down any changes you wish to see (additions and deletions) on the dispute form. The credit bureau will investigate your disputes and make the changes if it is a legitimate request.Also, look over all three reports very closely. If you have a common name you make have a few accounts reporting to your report that aren’t yours. Some things people don’t know lowers their score is frequent address changes (shows instability), high interest rates on loans, and closed credit cards. If you only have one or two cards it is better to leave them open with a zero balance than to close the account.Most banks are looking for about a 660 FICO score to finance a home in this market. Every point counts! -There is no arguing that a better credit score means better interest rates for your mortgage, auto, and all other areas where credit is used. By implementing these tips you could save hundred of dollars in interest in the long run and put cash back in your pocket in the short term.1) Avoid using cash and borrowing from family for all your purchases. In the eyes of creditors no credit history is the same as a bad credit history. You may get away with paying cash for your car but when you buy your first home it will come back to haunt you. Even if you can afford to borrow or pay cash try opening an account to buy your furniture, automobiles, or home improvements. A diverse credit background will help with your credit score.2) Your credit report tells all. Do not lie or stretch the truth to lenders, banks, or employers. They will easily catch you and the consequences are not worth it.3) Do not cancel credit card accounts to improve your credit. The intended affect may be the opposite of what you expect. You can hurt your credit by canceling your credit cards; especially if you have a long history with the account. Losing a ten or twenty year credit history isn't worth it. If you absolutely must stop using a card, try shredding it. An open account that doesn't have a balance looks far better then no credit account at all.