How to Build a Credit Score With Partial Credit Card Payments

If you're unable to make a full payment on your credit card, partial payments are an alternative to keep your account in good standing while simultaneously building your credit score. Before you decide to pay a portion of your credit card bill, you must set up a payment plan with your creditor, who is usually willing to accept partial payment for a limited time if you explain your current financial situation.

Instructions

1

Write a formal payment plan request letter. Include your name and address, and the creditor's name and address at the top of the letter.

2

Explain your current financial difficulties. According to Brette McWhorter Sember of "The Complete Credit Repair Kit," it is important to state the payment plan request is temporary, and to explain in detail what you are able to pay per month.

3

Request that the creditor reports a positive listing, which shows you are responsible and still making payment on the account. Sign the letter and send it to the creditor. If accepted, the creditor will respond with a letter that outlines the payment plan agreement.

4

Pay on time. Once a payment plan has been agreed upon, it is absolutely necessary that you pay on the account on time to keep your account in good standing. Failure to make on-time payments can result in a cancellation of the payment plan.