I don't mean to derail the thread but just consider that our system of a credit score is just another way of keeping "their" thumb on the little guy. Be a good boy, go into debt so "we" control you. Don't go TOO far, but be sure to always be in debt.I’ve had two for a couple weeks now. Haven’t said anything here though. I was taking enough heat for the phone so decided to wait to mention the cards. After I talked it over with my dad he changed his mind and he said I should get them just had to be responsible. I was pretty surprised at the amounts I got too. Now just need to get that balance down. I’ve used both a little bit more than I wanted but it’s been nice. And I’ve been making 2-3 payments for the last two weeks or so since I built a balance on them. The one that gave me the online card while I waited on the hard copy I got a little carried away with but luckily it’s in a manageable amount now.
I realized as a teenager something was amiss with credit scores when I learned the score actually drops for having available credit but not using it at all. Common sense would dictate one who carries no debt should have a good credit score, but common sense isn't common here.
Dave Ramsey's daughter talks about what it's like to go through life with absolutely no credit score at all because she never applied for a single card, loan etc. She admits it makes certain things more difficult but has tips on how to work around those items.
That said, I'm not nearly so virtuous and do have one card -- which I primarily use for business anymore-- and a mortgage.
Just don't be too eager to be a "good boy" for societal standards.