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How can I build a positive credit rating?

Last Updated: March 06, 2008

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The best way is to pay your bills on time—starting now! Your bill-paying history may be reported to a credit reporting agency (e.g., Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion … or one of hundreds of affiliates and smaller agencies), and this history can be reviewed by credit grantors, insurance companies, potential landlords, and potential employers.

Another way to build a good credit history is to get a secured credit card that is backed by money you deposit and keep in a bank account. This deposit account serves as security for the credit card in case you do not pay off your credit card bill. Shop around, though, because costs and fees vary widely.

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