It will determine your ability to get a loan, buy a car, sign a lease, even find employment. It is supposed to assess your financial history and ability to repay loans. That's the demo. In reality, the best way to "build credit" is to accumulate deferred debt such as loans, store cards and credit cards. As a former investment banker, I abhor personal debt. I don't collect store cards -- not interested in their 20%+ APR. I only have one credit card -- don't fancy carrying pounds of plastic around. I live within my means, with savings and no debt. Conclusion: I have a lousy credit. Go figure.illustration Ann Taintor
