A Few Good Ways to Start Building Credit [Infographic]

Using a secured credit card strategically and responsibly is one of the best ways you can build your credit. However, it’s important to know how to obtain and use one of these cards before pursuing this option.

Credit challenges come in many forms: foreclosure, bankruptcy, or a costly medical emergency. Or maybe you just missed a few car payments during tough times. Bad credit happens to good people all the time. A run of bad luck can throw even the most responsible person into a financial free fall. Fortunately, learning how to build credit or rebuild your credit score is not as difficult as it may seem. In fact, one of the best ways to begin rebuilding is using small, everyday purchases to your advantage.

So you’ve spent the last four (or more) years learning the job-related skills you’ll need to be successful after college. While those skills are certainly necessary, they’re not the only ones you’ll need to know to succeed financially.