Smart money · Credit
Credit cards and credit building guides
Good credit makes borrowing cheaper, so build it on purpose. These guides cover picking a card, starting from zero and cleaning up your report. Not sure where you stand? Try how to establish credit from scratch or the best credit cards.
Start with your situation
Pick the one that sounds like you.
- I'm starting from zeroWays to establish credit from scratch.
- My score needs workCredit building apps compared.
- I'm shopping for a cardThe best credit cards compared.
- Old accounts are on my reportHow to remove closed accounts.
- I'm checking my reportsWhich credit report is most accurate?
- I want an app like Kikoff9 apps like Kikoff to build credit.
Start here
The guides to read first.
Savvy move
Build credit the smart way
Three quick checks that keep more money in your pocket.
- 1Pay on time, every time.Payment history is the biggest piece of most credit scores. Set up autopay for at least the minimum so one missed date can't hurt you.
- 2Keep your balances low.Using a small share of your limit looks better than using most of it.
- 3Check your reports for mistakes.You can get your reports free from each of the three bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. Dispute anything that isn't yours.
All Credit guides
8 guides, newest first.
Which Credit Report is Most Accurate?Updated Sep 18, 2026- Best Credit Cards of 2026Updated Aug 26, 2026
Best Eco-Friendly Credit Cards and Debit Cards of 2026Updated Aug 25, 2026
9 Apps Like Kikoff to Build Your Credit ScoreStart building your credit by using apps like Kikoff that help you build credit fast. Some are also free to use to boost your score.Updated Aug 26, 2026
10 Best Credit Building Apps to Boost Your Score in 2026Start building your credit by using the best credit building apps that help you build credit fast. Some are also free to use to boost your score.Updated Aug 26, 2026- Easy Ways to Establish Credit From ScratchUpdated Jan 19, 2026
- How to Remove Closed Accounts From Credit ReportYour credit score remains critical in obtaining lower interest rates and better loan terms.Updated Jan 19, 2026
- Cutting Up Credit Cards: An Empowering Choice For ManyIf you part of the majority of Americans or owe money on your credit cards, it may be time to cut up your credit cards.Updated Dec 29, 2024
Quick answers
How do I build credit from scratch?
Common starting points are a secured credit card, a credit builder product, or being added to someone else's account as an authorized user. Whichever you pick, pay on time and keep balances low.
Where can I check my credit report for free?
AnnualCreditReport.com is the official source for free reports from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Look for accounts you don't recognize and balances that look wrong.