Try getting a credit card or loan without credit. Having "credit" means someone has determined that you are a low risk, and that you have proven yourself to be someone who repays their debts and makes payments on time.

Credit is built on the 3 C's – Character, Capital and Capacity. You have to show that you are responsible!

Your ability to use credit responsibly and repay creditors on time has a lot to do with how much access to credit you will have in the future. Building a solid credit history gives you more buying power when you need it, and that can be especially valuable when you are buying a car or home (in years to come!).

At Altier, we'll work with you to establish your credit.

A good way to start is when you turn 18. You can start with a small signature loan or vehicle loan with the co-signature of a parent or guardian. You can also consider getting a credit card with a low balance to start building credit. We look to see if you already have acquired things such as a savings account or other financial resources. Finally, you must have earning power (a job) from which to repay your loan or credit card.



In the future, if you do not repay a loan or are late with any payment (like on a credit card), it will follow you. Careless treatment of a loan will make it even more difficult for you to get loans in the future because everything is reported to the local credit bureau. The credit bureau then makes your credit report available to all companies or other financial institutions who want information on you to determine your credit risk.