Word bank: autopay · credit-builder · independent · utilization

1. Under 21: income or a co-signer for a card.
2. Secured cards, student cards, authorized user, loans.
3. One small bill + in full.
4. Low and patience build scores.

1. You're 19, with a part-time job, and no credit history.

   1. Which is the safest first step?

   • A. Apply for five cards at once
   • B. Open one secured or student card and put a small bill on autopay
   • C. Take out a car loan you don't need
   • D. Max out a store card for discounts

2. 2. With a secured card, your deposit usually becomes your credit limit.

   True/False

3. Your card has a $500 limit.

   3. Which monthly balance keeps utilization in a healthy range?

   • A. $50
   • B. $450
   • C. $500
   • D. $600

1. 1. Your secured card has a $300 limit, and you want utilization under 10%. What's the most your statement balance should be?

2. 2. Name two ways to build credit without a traditional credit card.

1. 1. What's one small, regular bill you could use to build credit safely?

2. 2. Why might someone avoid credit entirely? What are the downsides?