Credit Cards for No Credit

5 of the Best Ways to Build Credit With No Credit History

In today’s day and age, it’s more important than ever to build a strong credit history. If you don’t have a credit history, there are several things you can do to jumpstart your credit report and put yourself on the right track.

While it’s true that you “need credit to get credit,” there are a few tricks you can use to get ahead of the curve. Here are five of the best ways to build credit with no credit history:

1. Opt for a Secured Credit Card

This is one of the best ways to build a credit history, as secured credit cards are available to almost every type of consumer. With this, you’re required to make a security deposit that acts both as collateral and your credit limit. Use your credit card as you see fit, all the while paying your bill on time every month. Tip: before signing on the dotted line, verify that your payment history will be reported to the three primary credit bureaus.

2. Apply for a Department or Online Store Credit Card

You may not be in position to secure a traditional (unsecured) credit card right now, but that doesn’t mean that department stores will turn you down. If you have a favorite department store, learn more about its credit card program. As long as you keep your spending in check, this is another great way to build your credit history. Just the same as a secured credit card, verify that all activity is reported to the credit bureaus.

3. Find a Co-Signer

Just because you can’t qualify for an unsecured credit card or loan on your own, it doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. With the help of a co-signer, you can secure a credit card or loan in no time. This can help you build credit history, but remember one thing: your co-signer is on the hook if you miss a payment or are unable to stay current.

4. Consider Your Rent Payments

If you pay your rent in full and on time every month, you’ll want to use this to your advantage. There are many rent reporting services that add rent payments to your credit report, thus helping you establish your credit and boost your score.

5. Become an Authorized User

Will your spouse add you as an authorized user on his or her credit card? How about a parent or sibling? There are many benefits of this, including the ability to access credit and the opportunity to build credit history. This is an idea to consider, but only if you set clear spending parameters with the primary card holder. You don’t want this arrangement to ruin your relationship.

Conclusion

Everyone starts with no credit. While some people actively take steps to build a strong credit history, others sit back and wonder what they should be doing. If you’re ready to forge ahead, implement one or more of the five strategies above. These will help you build your credit from the ground up.