Download Credit Karma
A free app to help you understand and keep an eye on your credit. Watch the video first.
Set up your first three credit-building accounts
Open these in order. Each one can add positive payment history to your credit reports when you pay on time.
SELF Credit Builder Account
Also known as SELF Lender
Sign up for the $25 monthly plan if it is available. This account reports to all three major credit bureaus as an installment loan. Although it reports as a loan, your payments go into a savings account. At the end of the term, you receive the savings minus interest and applicable fees. Make sure you have enough money in your bank account each month to cover the payment, and set up automatic payments, because late payments could hurt your credit. After at least three on-time payments and meeting other requirements, you may become eligible for the SELF Visa® Credit Card.
Sign up for SELF →CreditStrong Account
A credit-building program similar to SELF
CreditStrong works much like SELF, with different plans to choose from. Opening it soon can help you add more positive payment history to your credit reports. Review the payment amount and total cost before you sign up.
Sign up for CreditStrong →Kikoff Credit Account
A low-cost monthly plan
Kikoff currently offers plans starting at $5 per month. The account reports to all three major credit bureaus and can add another positive account to your credit profile when you pay on time. Review the plan details before signing up.
Sign up for Kikoff →