​How to Build Your Credit from Scratch

During the last article I posted, I went into detail about starting a home based business. That article was based on the valuable feedback I received from those that have read Start Winning With Money. After I wrote The Quick Start Credit Repair Guide however, another question pops up all the time that I thought deserved to be addressed in more detail as well.

What do I do if I have no credit whatsoever?

Building credit is a slow process for everyone. When you are faced with building your credit from the ground up however, it can sometimes be a longer process than having to rebuild your credit after you have made some mistakes. Below are some quick tips to help you get started on the right foot.

Find and Maintain a Stable Job

Having long term, stable employment is what's best for your finances. If you are not in this position, it should be your main focus in the immediate future. Stability in employment always looks good as far as lenders are concerned. If you have been working at the same place for years with a steady increase in your pay, you will come across as a stable individual who will be able to make regular loan payments.

Obtain a Bank Account

A bank account should also be at the top of your “to do” list. Any bank account is fine. The point is to open one and maintain activity. This will prove that you are able to keep a bank account running, along with managing its transactions.

Obtain a Credit Card

If you do not have one currently, obtaining a credit card is a goal that you should make for yourself. This is an essential way to make your dreams of building your credit come true. There are many options when you are searching for credit cards. Be sure to do your research and find the credit card that is the right fit for you. 

There are many types, from those that are high interest with no fees, to those with low interest for individuals who tend to carry a balance, to credit cards that have a reward point system. There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to credit cards, so research your options and ask friends and family what they love and hate about their own credit cards.

Pay Your Credit Card on Time

Once you have your credit card, make it a priority to pay it on time each month. It used to be believed that you should keep a balance on your credit card in order to build credit, but that has now proven to be false. A better way to build your credit is to pay on time, and in full. This will show lenders that you are a trustworthy individual who can make regular payments on time.

Live within Your Means

One of the best pieces of advice to someone who wants to build credit is to live within your means and not overspend. It won’t do your credit any good to have a job, bank account and credit card if you are constantly in debt and not paying it off in time. Instead, live frugally and stick within your budget.

As you can see, It doesn’t have to be difficult to build your credit from scratch. It simply takes a bit of planning and lots of patience. By using these steps, you can easily build your credit from scratch and be one step closer to the financial dreams of your future.