Always paying the minimum on my credit cards led to reduced limits and a score drop - how can I fix this?

When you go for a stretch of time only making your minimum monthly payments, it can be a red flag. Credit card companies may reduce your credit limit in this situation, risking a huge hit to your credit score.

Carrying a balance allows your credit card issuers to charge you interest, which helps their bottom line while hurting yours. Thus, they may prefer you don't pay your balances in full.

Read at 24/7 Wall St.