Look at some other options on how to rebuild credit without a credit card.
How to Build Your Credit Using Debit Cards
If you’re looking to build your credit but don’t want to take on the risk of using a credit card, you can do so by using a debit card. Here’s how:
Use Your Debit Card Regularly
The more you use your debit card, the more likely your card issuer will report your activity to credit bureaus. This way, you can establish a positive credit history.
Make Sure Your Transactions Are Reported
Some debit card issuers don’t report transaction activity to credit bureaus. If you’re using your debit card to build a credit history, make sure your card issuer reports your activity. This will help ensure your credit file is being updated.
Make Sure Your Payments Are on Time
Like with a credit card, late or missed payments can negatively impact your credit score. Paying your bills on time can help build a positive credit history.
Keep Your Balances Low
Using a high percentage of your available credit can hurt your credit score, so keeping your balances low is essential.
Check Your Credit Report Regularly
If your debit card activity is reported to the credit bureaus, it’s important to check your credit report regularly to ensure everything is being reported accurately.
By following these simple tips, you can use your debit card to help build your credit. Building credit takes time and effort, but it’s worth it in the long run. By using a debit card responsibly, you can improve your credit score and get access to better financial opportunities.
Other Ways to Build Credit
In addition to credit and debit cards, you can use these other methods to help improve your credit score:
Apply for a Credit Builder Loan
Credit builder loans are designed specifically to help people build their credit. The loan is paid back over time, and making on-time payments helps improve your credit score.
Get a Secured Credit Card
A secured credit card is a good option for people with bad credit or no credit history. It requires a security deposit, which acts as your credit limit. Then, as you use the card and make on-time payments, you build your credit.
Become an Authorized User on Someone Else’s Credit Card
If you have a friend or family member with good credit, you can ask them to add you as an authorized user on their credit card. This way, you can piggyback off their good credit and build your own.
Use a Credit Monitoring Service
Credit monitoring services can help you track your credit score and report any changes to the credit bureaus. This can help you catch any errors or fraudulent activity dragging down your score.
Report Alternate Payments
Alternate payments, such as utility bills and rent, can be reported to credit bureaus; this way, you can build your credit history even if you don’t have a credit card. Ask your landlord or utility company if they report payments to credit bureaus.
If You Missed Payments
If you fall behind on debt payments, your account may be turned over to a collection agency. This can happen if you default on a loan or fail to make credit card or utility payments. Once your account is with a collection agency, they’ll try to collect the debt from you.
If you ever defaulted on a payment schedule, you need to know how to find out which collection agency you owe. Here are some things you can do:
Check Your Credit Report
Collection agencies will often report debts to credit bureaus. If you check your credit report, you may see which collection agency is listed as the creditor.
Look for Collection Notices
If a collection agency tries to contact you, they’ll typically send you a notice in the mail. This notice will list the collection agency’s information and the amount you owe.
Contact Your Original Creditor
If you’re unsure which collection agency holds your debt; you can try contacting your original creditor. They may be able to give you the contact information for the collection agency. Once you know which collection agency you owe, you can begin working on a payment plan.
Lenders use different credit bureaus when considering auto loans, so checking all three of your credit reports is important to find out which credit bureau is most used for auto loans. Experian is the most commonly used credit bureau for auto loans, but a potential lender may also consider your TransUnion and Equifax scores.
If you’re unsure which credit bureau a lender will use, you can check all three of your reports. This way, you can have the most accurate information when applying for a loan.
In Summary
Debit cards can be a great way to manage your finances and build your credit. By using a debit card responsibly, you can improve your credit score. Remember to use your debit card wisely, keep track of your spending, and make timely payments. With a little effort, you can use your debit card to help build your credit and improve your financial future.