There’s no need to pay anyone to “repair” your credit; you have all the tools you need to raise your FICO number.

A hard credit inquiry could lower your credit score by as much as 10 points, though in many cases, the damage probably won’t be that significant. As FICO explains, “For most people, one additional credit inquiry will take less than five points off their FICO Scores.”

Having a high credit score buys the average consumer more than bragging rights. Read on to find out how else you could benefit from a top-notch credit score.

If there are errors in your credit report (such as incorrect loan balances or missed payments recorded in error), you can dispute them with credit bureaus such as CRIF.

Your credit record could be the silent culprit behind your struggles to secure a loan, credit card, mortgage, or even a basic bank account. If you've been repeatedly turned down for mobile phone contracts or any form of borrowing,