Credit Building 101

If you're ready to embark on the journey of building your credit from scratch, you're in the right place. At Fort Worth City Credit Union, we believe in empowering you to take control of your financial future. So, let's dive into our top 5 action items for building your credit like a pro!

1. Start Small, Dream Big: Secure Your Credit with a Secured Credit Card!

Getting your foot in the credit door? Our secured credit cards are your golden ticket. With a Fort Worth City Credit Union Fort Worth Proud VISA Secured Credit Card, you can establish a positive credit history while keeping your spending in check. A secured credit card requires a cash security deposit equal to the credit line to open the account.  It's like a financial training ground, setting you up for success!

2. Punctuality is Key: Pay Your Bills on Time, Every Time!

Think of your credit score as a report card for your financial responsibility. Paying your bills on time is the A+ move. Our online bill pay is a fast and free place to keep track of all your bills in one place. Set up automatic payments or calendar reminders to ensure you're always ahead of the due date. Your credit score will thank you!

3. Mix It Up: Diversify Your Credit Portfolio

Variety is the spice of life, and the same goes for your credit portfolio. Consider mixing different types of credit, like installment loans and credit cards. This diversity shows lenders that you can handle various financial responsibilities, boosting your creditworthiness.

4. Keep It Low: Maintain a Low Credit Utilization Ratio

Here's a credit-building secret: aim to use only a fraction of your available credit. If your credit limit is $1,000, keeping your balance around $300 or lower can positively impact your credit score. It's a small adjustment with a big payoff!

5. Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself: Regularly Monitor Your Credit Report

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your credit. Keep tabs on your credit report to catch any discrepancies early. Credit checkups are a must – and the best part? You can do it for free at annualcreditreport.com! Knowledge is your first line of defense against credit mishaps.

Ready to kickstart your credit journey? Fort Worth City Credit Union is here to guide you every step of the way. Explore our secured credit card options and unlock the door to a brighter financial future. Your credit success story begins with us!