Credit scores: we often don’t think about them until we need to. Those three little digits can impact so many aspects of our financial lives, from getting a loan or mortgage to renting an apartment or even landing a job. A low credit score can cost you thousands of dollars over time in the form of higher interest rates and denied opportunities.

The good news is that you’re not powerless when it comes to improving your credit score. While building a strong credit history takes time, there are some quick fixes you can implement today to give your score an initial boost. Here are eight strategies you can use to start taking control of your credit and improve your financial prospects:

First, obtain a copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You are entitled to a free report from each bureau once a year, which you can access through AnnualCreditReport.com. Review your reports for any errors or discrepancies, such as incorrect late payments, inaccurate account balances, or accounts that aren’t yours. Dispute any errors online or by mail, providing supporting documentation if possible. This process can help to quickly raise your score by removing inaccurate negative information.

Another strategy is to reduce your credit card balances. Your credit utilization ratio, which compares your credit card balances to their limits, is a significant factor in determining your credit score. The lower your balances, the better. Aim to keep your utilization rate below 30% of your total available credit, and below 10% for an optimal score. Making early payments during the billing cycle before the statement date can also help, as it reduces the balance reported to credit bureaus.