While it might be tempting to contact one of the many credit repair services easily found online when you need to boost your credit score, experts agree there is nothing they have to offer that you cannot do yourself, writes Martha C. White for Money.com.

In some cases, they also might carry out unethical or illegal activities that will go right back on your report once discovered. This includes adding your name to somebody else’s credit account, also known as “tradeline,” which is viewed as deceptive by lenders and credit reporting agencies.

Instead, you can use other ways to improve your score.

You can check if there is any incorrect information on your report and file a dispute yourself. You can also use a nonprofit to boost your score. This includes National Foundation for Credit Counseling program called Sharpen Your Financial Focus.

Other services, such as Experian Boost and UltraFICO can also help.

Read more about credit repair services at Money.com.

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