Have to pay off the outstanding debts that are reported on your credit report and also have a couple, not too many, open credit accounts that are in good standing. A law passed last year that allows you to see your report for free once a year, if you go to any of the three companies you should be able to find info on how to do so...all three have set up a websit together about getting free report, which will not include your score but will show you which outstanding debts you have that can be paid to bring up a score..