People with no credit history find it harder to deal with a society that uses credit history to measure one’s credibility and credit worthiness. Banks, financial institutions, landlords, employers – they all look into an individual’s credit report when considering an application.

Yes, even landlords and employers check on your credit history before accepting you as a tenant or as an employee. Even if you’re not thinking about getting a loan, without a credit history, it can bring about some problems with your finding a job or a place to live.

But what if you have no credit? Does that put you in a hopeless situation? Is it possible for you to build credit? The answer is yes! Let’s talk about the ways on how you can establish your credit history today.

Get a department store card. A department store card works just like a credit card but you can only use it with one particular store. You can use this card to purchase items from the department store and pay it back by the end of the month. The difference is that department store cards are easier to obtain and does not require a credit history to get approved. In fact, many people who have no credit start with a department store card to establish credit.

Get a gas station card. Just like a department store card, a gas station card is a credit card used to purchase from a particular gas station. You don’t need a credit history to get a gas station card but it’s a good way to build one. Just remember, whether you have a department store card or a gas station card, it’s important to pay off your monthly balances on time.

Open an account with a co-signer. Another way to build credit history is to ask someone to co-sign for you. Banks or lenders will check on your co-signer’s credit history instead. Once you get approved, you can start building your credit history slowly. Always keep in mind that your co-signer will be accountable for all your debts. Be sure to pay off your dues on time and be a responsible borrower.

Apply for a secured credit card. A secured credit card will require you to submit a security in exchange for your credit. You can use your home or a land title as a security to start building your credit.

However, be aware that it puts you at risk of losing your property if you fail to keep up with your debts. Thus, it is extremely important not to delay or miss any of your dues. You also have to be very carefully on using your credit card.

These are your options to start building your credit now. Remember, the key to building a good credit history is to pay your bills on time. Be constantly aware about your payment dates so you wouldn’t delay or miss in submitting your payments. Furthermore, be aware of your spending and make sure that you can afford to pay back what you owe.