How to Ask for a Credit Limit Increase (And Why It Can Help Your Credit Score)

Raising your credit limit can be a smart financial move—when done strategically. Not only can it boost your purchasing power, but it can also improve your credit score by lowering your credit utilization ratio. But timing and approach matter. Here’s how to ask for a credit limit increase the right way.

1. Why Request a Credit Limit Increase?

A higher credit limit doesn’t just give you more room to spend—it plays a key role in your credit health. Here’s how:

• Lower credit utilization ratio: This is the percentage of your credit limit you’re using. Ideally, you want to stay under 20%. A higher limit makes it easier to keep your usage low, which can improve your credit score.

• Better credit score: Since credit utilization makes up about 30% of your FICO® Score, a limit increase can give your score a nice lift—without needing to open a new account.

• More financial flexibility: A higher limit can be helpful for emergencies, travel, or large planned purchases.

2. When’s the Best Time to Ask?

Timing matters. Requesting an increase when your financial profile looks strong gives you a better shot at approval. Consider asking when:

• You’ve had the account for at least 6–12 months: Lenders want to see how you handle credit over time.

• Your income has increased: A higher income signals a greater ability to repay debt.

• You’ve been making on-time payments: Consistency builds trust with lenders.

• Your credit score has improved: If your score has gone up, you’re more likely to get approved for a higher limit.

Avoid asking right after a missed payment, a recent credit application spree, or during a financial rough patch.

3. How to Ask for a Credit Limit Increase

There are two main ways to request an increase:

• Online: Most credit card issuers allow you to request an increase through your account dashboard. This is fast and easy, and sometimes automated.

• By phone: If you prefer a human touch—or want to explain your case—call customer service. Be ready to share your current income, employment status, and monthly housing payment.

Tips for the request:

• Be honest and accurate with your income.

• Highlight your responsible credit use and payment history.

• Ask for a reasonable increase—aiming for a 10% to 25% bump is usually safe.

4. Will It Affect My Credit Score?

It depends on the issuer. Some credit card companies do a soft pull, which won’t impact your credit score. Others may do a hard inquiry, which can temporarily lower your score by a few points.

Before you request, ask whether the inquiry will be soft or hard. If it’s a hard pull, make sure the potential score dip is worth it.

Requesting a credit limit increase is a practical way to improve your credit score—if you time it right and use the increase responsibly. Think of it not as permission to spend more, but as a tool to keep your credit utilization low and your score high.