Does asking for a credit limit increase help lower my utilization?

Yes. Utilization is your balance divided by your limit, so raising the limit while keeping the balance the same instantly lowers the ratio, which can help your score. If you owe $3,000 on a $6,000 limit that's 50% utilization; bump the limit to $10,000 and you're at 30%.

The catch: some issuers run a hard inquiry for a limit increase, which can ding your score a few points temporarily. Ask your issuer whether the request is a soft or hard pull first. Also, only do this if you trust yourself not to spend into the new room. A higher limit is a tool for a better ratio, not permission to carry more debt. You can simulate the score impact at wealthserene.com/tools/credit-score-simulator.