How to build credit without a credit card

A credit card can be a useful tool for building a good score, but not everyone is keen on committing to one because it has potential downsides.

For example, there’s the risk of accumulating debt if you can’t control your spending, and there’s also a high probability that your card will come with a high interest rate, especially if your score is not in good standing. Credit cards also come with fees and hurt your score if you miss a payment.

Luckily, credit cards are not the only way to build your credit score. There are more than nine other methods to get your score to a decent level without the strain of working with credit cards for credit building.

In this article, you’ll learn how to raise your credit score without a credit card and minimize risks while building credit.

Do you need a credit card to build a credit score?

No, you don’t need a credit card to establish credit because issuers are not the only companies licensed to report. Credit cards are commonly used because they are widely available and convenient, but responsible financial behavior matters more than the specific tool you use.