How to Boost Your Credit Score Using Your Monthly Rent Payments
- Author: Jessica Williams
- Posted: 2026-02-19
Experts say this is a positive trend. Having rent payments on your credit report can provide a clearer picture of your financial habits, which can lead to better loan options and interest rates in the future.
Who Benefits the Most?
Rent reporting is especially helpful for people who are "credit invisible"—those who don’t have much experience with credit cards or loans.
- Significant Gains: On average, consumers who include rent in their reports see their scores increase by about 60 points.
- Younger Generations: Since younger adults (Gen Z and Millennials) are more likely to rent and have shorter credit histories, they are currently using these services the most.
How It Works
Rent reporting services track your payment history and share that data with the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
However, it is important to remember that this can be a double-edged sword. While on-time payments help your score, late payments could hurt it depending on which service you use.
5 Questions to Ask Before Signing Up
Before you enroll in a rent reporting service, experts recommend asking yourself these five questions:
1. Do I really need it?
2. What are the fees?
While some services are free, others charge a monthly fee (usually between $7 and $10) or a one-time setup fee that can cost up to $95. Check if your landlord is willing to cover these costs before you pay out of pocket.
3. Does it report to all three bureaus?
There are three main credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Some services only report to one or two. If a future lender checks a bureau that doesn’t have your rent data, all your effort (and money) won't help you get that loan.
4. What kind of data is being shared?
Some services only report positive, on-time payments. Others will report if you are late or miss a month. If you are worried about job security or your ability to pay rent in the future, you may want to wait before signing up.
5. How do I cancel?
Because these services are relatively new, they don't all have the same rules. Make sure you understand how to stop the service and how canceling might look on your credit report before you commit.
The Bottom Line
Reporting your rent is a great way to claim a bill you are already paying. If you are consistent with your payments and choose the right service, it can be a powerful tool to jumpstart your financial future.
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