How does one really build a credit history in the US if you have had none?

Question by Iverology: How does one really build a credit history in the US if you have had none?
If one obtained a secured credit card from a bank, is it true that you should not spend more than 50% of your limit? Also, that you should not pay your balance in full but only the minimum amount to “start building your credit score?”

Best answer:

Answer by Joseph M
A secured credit card is an option. The revolving line of credit should report to all three credit bureaus monthly, and generally reports the balance on the date that your statement closes as the balance on the account. Owing more than 30% of the credit line can negatively impact your credit score.

In addition to the secured credit card, an installment loan can have a positive impact on your credit.

As long as you make at least the current payment due, on time, the credit bureaus will still report you current. The size of your payment will not “boost” your credit score.

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