Another popular method is to get a retail card from stores like Macy’s or The Gap. “Retail cards are generally much easier to obtain even if your credit history and credit scores aren’t in the best shape,” says Levin. Although quick payments on retail cards facilitate a positive credit history, there are limitations on where the cards can be used, and the interest rates can be very high. “Paying them off quickly is a must,” says Levin. “The line they love to give you is ‘if you open one today you’ll save 10%,’ which is nice, but then they’ll slaughter you with your interest rates later.”

Photo credits: girl with card © istock/Amanda Rohde, credit card © Cara Purdy