#What is the best way to build credit if you have none?

If you do not have a credit score because you have not established credit yet, the good news is that you probably are not haunted by an array of unpaid debt. Here is a quick overview on credit scoring and six simple ways to build and maintain credit.

Six Steps to Building and Maintaining Credit

1) Obtain and use a credit card wisely

To start building good credit with your credit card, you will need to obtain the card, use it, and make the timely payments.

You may have to sign up for a secured card to start. A secured card requires you to deposit money (typically around $300) into an account controlled by the credit card company or bank. Your deposit secures any debt you place on the card. It is a way for a creditor to take less risk when dealing with someone who has poor credit or no credit.

A secured card builds a strong credit score just as well as using any other credit card. Just make sure that your secured card creditor reports to all three credit bureaus on a monthly basis.

Make your payments on time, as on-time payments are the No. 1 factor in determining your credit score. Pay your secured card balance in full each month. Your debt balance-to-credit limit ratio is also the No. 2 factor in your score. Secured card limits are low, so it is very important to not carry a running balance to keep your credit utilization low.

If you follow these steps, a secured card will help you you will be build good credit.

Another way to build credit from scratch can include getting a low-limit retail store card or a gas card. These cards often have looser qualifying requirements than a standard credit card. Be sure to pay the monthly balance in full, to avoid paying interest, as gas and store cards normally have very high interest rates.

2) Review understand your credit report

Review your credit report at least once a year, checking that it contains only accurate information. If the report includes items that are inaccurate, request the report be corrected.

You can receive a free copy of your credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com. where you can get one free report from each bureau every 12 months. If you request one bureau at a time every four months, you can check your credit report for free three times a year.

3) Take a loan

Another good way to build credit history is to pay off a small loan. Borrow from your bank or credit union to purchase a used car or a larger purchase, such as an appliance. Some banks and credit unions offer credit builder loans.

Pay the loan on time and in full. Pay any student loans on time every month. (Remember: On-time payments are the No. 1 factor in determining a credit score.)

4) Protect yourself from identity theft

Identity theft can sink a credit rating.

Remember that identity theft occurs both offline, and through the Internet. Protect yourself from unscrupulous individuals who could go through your trash, steal account numbers online or get personal information through complex phishing scams.

Record all important financial information and account numbers in a secure place. Shred all documents that contain personal information.

Never give out personal information in e-mails or in a phone call you did not initiate.

5) Create and stick to a budget

A good way to maintain a healthy financial lifestyle is to create and stick to a household budget.

Many people harm their credit scores by spending beyond their means, building up debts, and maxing out credit cards.