A credit score is relevant anytime you try to get a loan (auto loan, residential loan), apply for a credit card, or even rent an apartment. This article touches on the basics of a credit score, how to build credit, habits that help or hurt a score and implications of Good vs Excellent credit.

Building a US credit history - and having a score to reflect your credibility - is the first step to accessing any type of locally financed purchases from cars to homes. So unless you envision paying everything in cash, here’s how you get your first credit card.