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Updated about 6 years ago, 11/20/2018
Getting Credit Cards to build credit
Hello BP community,
I am trying to decide what other credit cards should I get to help build my credit. I have no previous credit history so the mortgage loan officers I've spoken to have said to start building credit and to have at least three lines of credit.
Currently, I am getting a discover secured card and I am considering getting a Best Buy credit card and then an airline card (I don't know which one yet).
I don't if I am making the right decision should I just apply for another credit card from another bank? And my last question, how long should I wait before I get each card or that does not matter?
Thanks for any help
If you're building credit, I personally would steer clear of store cards and get bank credit cards. Capital One is good for people building credit and you may qualify for an unsecured card. Can't say exactly what you'd qualify for though.
Since you're just starting out, you'd be fine getting three at once.
1- Get a credit card from your bank if they offer one, if they don't, go to a local credit union.
2- Get a card with no annual fee and an intro 0% APR (all types of vendors have one - AMEX, Chase, Discover, etc)
Airline and Hotel CCs are only worth it if you actually travel regularly... like, monthly - and usually have annual fees, some can be HIGH (~$500). If not travelling that much, get a card that offers "points" or cash back that you can redeem for flights/travel if needed.
It's generally not recommended to get any "store" cards - they are junk.
You should be able to apply for and get a couple right off (they will show instant approval online) - if you get denied for one, it may be beacuse too many credit pulls, so just wait 30 days or so and try again.
I can provide you with a referral links for some cards if you want them (gets us both "points") - or just google "credit card comparator" or something and you will find 1000 sites that compare cards. Just be simple - no annual fee, intro 0% apr, no store cards. Pay off monthly.
Thank you both @Bob Okenwa and @Megan Phillips really great suggestions. Yh I do travel "often" but not really monthly usually once every 2 or 3 months. So speaking of credit cards from my own bank and getting points if you were to have one for Bank of America travel rewards card then that would be a great referral one.
@Quincy Gordon Jr. I would definitely get an AMEX, Capital One card and Discover. Maintain usage between 10%-20% depending on limit. Try to keep revolving credit controlled and use loans wisely.