You need to make sure that the soil temperature is correct for the seeds to sprout. I suspect it is too cold where you are so you would need to wait until it warms up in the spring.
You can put a dethatcher attachment on a lawn mower-- it replaces the cutting blade-- and use it on the lawn. Rake out the debris and Then spread the seeds and cover lightly with cow manure from a home supply place, like home depot.
Water heavy for the first several days and then make sure the seeds do not dry out until they sprout