It’s really sad that they don’t teach this stuff in HS. I think most of the problems Americans have with spending and debt is because they don’t know how the system really works. It’s not specifically set up to screw people but absolutely will capitalize on those who can’t, don’t, or won’t take the time to learn about it.
How to get a credit rating of 750 or higher by graduation:
1) Get a CC after HS graduation
2) Use it every month but never go over the limit, never use it for cash withdrawls
3) Pay the bill off, in full, every month
4) Apply for credit increases every 6-12 months (depending on creditor rules)
5) NEVER let the CC company give you a hard inquiry for a credit increase, always verify they’re aren’t going to before agreeing to the credit increase (learned that one myself recently)
6) Pay off installment loans (car, college) quickly and on time
7) ???
8) Profit from a low or very low risk credit profile
Multiple CCs doesn’t always give a good first impression but if you’re regularly using more than one and paying them all off like you’re supposed to it’ll definately boost your score.