Arriving with an excellent credit record elsewhere counts for nothing in the United States. The system is domestic, and it starts at zero for almost everyone.
Open the right first product
A secured credit card, backed by a refundable deposit, is the standard entry point. Some banks also offer starter cards to customers with a deposit relationship.
Use it for one small recurring expense and set up automatic full payment. The goal is a flawless payment record, not rewards.
- Secured credit card with a low limit
- Credit-builder loan from a credit union
- Authorised user status on a trusted person's account
Protect the score you build
Avoid closing your oldest account, applying for many products at once, or carrying a high balance relative to your limit.
Check your reports from the major bureaus regularly. Errors are common and correcting them is free.