The Importance
of Building Good Credit

You worked hard to get good grades in college and now you need to work just as hard at having good credit. The first step to good credit is to know where you stand, and you can do that by obtaining a copy of your current Credit Report and Credit Score.

As you move forward in the real world—your credit moves with you. Whenever you make a financial move, your credit history will be right at your heels, helping you move forward—or holding you back.

When you try to apply for a credit card, rent an apartment or purchase a home or auto, or even hook up a phone or utilities, your credit can, and may be checked. And a lack of credit history can be seen as just as risky to lenders as bad credit because they have no proof you can pay your bills. So, needless to say, the sooner you take an interest in good credit, the better off you will be.

Also keep in mind that good credit is fragile—one wrong move can make a significant mark on your credit history and lower your overall Credit Score. For instance, if your credit card company neglects to send your bills to your house, or they send them to you late, you are still responsible for all unpaid or late amounts. And late or unpaid credit card bills show up as negatives on your Credit Report.

In summary, when it comes to your financial future, the sooner you know where you stand credit wise, the better off you will be.