Building credit is an important financial milestone to help provide you with financial freedom. But if you’re just starting out, it can feel overwhelming. This is especially true if you don’t have any accounts reporting to the bureaus.
The good news is there are several ways to begin building a strong credit profile from scratch, and tools like the Hustle Card by Solo can make the process more accessible and straightforward.
Keep reading to learn how you can begin building your own credit, even if you’re building it from scratch.
Ready to take control of your credit future? To begin your journey toward stronger credit and greater financial freedom, simply apply today to get started.
1. Open a Hustle Card Credit Builder Card
One of the most effective ways to start building credit is by using the Hustle Card credit builder card. With the Hustle card, you can make everyday purchases and practice good credit habits without needing a traditional credit card.
Each on time payment you make with the Hustle card is reported to the 3 major credit bureaus, helping you establish or strengthen your credit history.
2. Pay All Bills On Time
Even if you don't have a large credit history yet, certain types of payments can still affect your overall financial profile.
Consistently paying your phone bill, utility bills, or rent on time helps build a track record of financial responsibility. Some services even allow you to have positive payment histories for these bills reflected in your credit file.
3. Monitor Your Credit Report
Keeping an eye on your credit report from the start allows you to track your progress and correct any inaccuracies early.
Monitoring your credit report helps you stay informed about how your actions—like using your Hustle Card—are impacting your credit profile over time. It also helps you catch any errors that could delay your credit-building progress.
Plus, with the Hustle Card by Solo you can keep a regular pulse on any changes to your credit score over time with credit monitoring. This allows you to stay informed about any changes to your credit report through an alert system. You’ll get alerts about various factors such as new accounts opened, credit inquiries, changes to your personal information, and more.
4. Avoid Applying for Too Much New Credit at Once
When you’re starting out, it can be tempting to apply for multiple accounts quickly. However, each application for credit can result in a hard inquiry, and too many hard inquiries in a short period can affect your credit profile.
Because the Hustle card is designed as a tool for new credit builders, your application will only result in a “soft inquiry” and will not count as a hard pull on your credit. You can learn more about the Hustle card here [insert link to main FAQ page].
With the Hustle card, you have a simple, effective way to focus on building credit without needing to open multiple accounts at once.
5. Keep Accounts Active and In Good Standing
Once you open a credit account, keeping it active and in good standing over time is essential.
Using your Hustle card regularly for small or recurring purchases helps you maintain an active credit profile. Long-term, consistent account management and on time payments play a key role in building strong credit.
Build Your Credit Future with the Hustle card by Solo
Starting from scratch doesn’t have to be complicated. The Hustle credit builder card is designed to give you the tools and support you need to establish and grow your credit profile over time. By focusing on everyday good financial habits you can confidently take control of your financial future, one step at a time.
Have questions? Our support team is here to help.
On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. We report payment history to Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Credit impact may vary based on a number of factors including your activity with other financial services organizations.
The Hustle Card and related banking services are provided by Cross River Bank Member FDIC. Upward Financial Inc. is a technology services provider and the administrator of the Hustle Card program. Deposits FDIC-insured up to $250,000 through Cross River Bank. Line of credit is not a deposit product. Cards may be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted.