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How To Build Credit - Why It Is Important To Build Credit
By Greg McTaggart

Getting credit can be one of life’s Catch-22’s: it is hard to get credit if you don’t already have it, and if you already have it then you don’t need it. Young people and those who have never borrowed need to build credit over time so that they can qualify for larger loans when needed.

The Need to Build Credit

If you do not have a credit history, lenders do not know whether or not they should give you money. Without any credit history, they can’t tell if you are a responsible debt -payer or a bad risk. You need to build credit in order to prove your creditworthiness.

Who Needs to Build Credit?

Anybody without a history of using credit needs to build credit. You never know when the need for a loan will arise, and it is a lot easier to get a loan with a solid credit history.
Young adults who are just starting to learn about financial responsibilities need to build credit, and recent immigrants to the U.S. also find themselves without a credit history.

Ways to Build Credit

It is actually pretty easy to build credit. Try one of the following ideas:

 • Ask your bank or credit union about a secured credit card. You can make a deposit to your account and have a credit limit in the amount of your deposit. The bank takes little risk and you build credit slowly.
 • Use a co-signer on your first few credit accounts. Lenders will consider the co-signer’s existing credit. The co-signer essentially ‘vouches’ for you while you build credit. Note that this is a big responsibility – you can cause major headaches for the co-signer if you don’t pay as agreed.
 • Use credit programs for modestly large purchases



like furniture. For example, you may buy a television on the “$40/Month Payment Plan”. These programs can be easier to qualify for and they certainly help you build credit. Be sure that the retailer will report your loan to the major credit reporting companies.
 • Get a credit card with any reputable institution that will give you one. Again, you have to make sure they’ll report your timely payments to the credit reporting companies. Of course, you have to always pay at least the minimum before the due date.

Risks of Building Credit

Remember that credit can be a useful tool, but it can also get you in trouble. After you build credit, you may be inundated with offers. Banks, credit card companies, and others will want to loan you money because they'll know you're a good borrower. Don't take them up on every offer -- only borrow money when it truly benefits you.

About One, Inc.
Christian Credit One, Inc. is a national, non-profit Counseling organization dedicated to helping consumers achieve financial wellness through counseling and education.  Established in 1994, One has helped over two million individuals achieve financial security. One is one of the top members of the American Association of Debt Management Organizations (AADMO), One manages clients across the country. Personalized and confidential consultations are available in person, by phone or online.