 TITLE: How to Get Started With Credit in College CONTENT: Join a Credit Card Account as an Authorized User\n------------------------------------------------\nYou can also build credit by asking your parents or a loved one to add you as an authorized user to one of their credit card accounts. Becoming an authorized user doesn't require a credit check, so that's one hurdle removed.\nThe primary cardholder's credit line and payment history will show up on your credit report when you become an authorized user, so this can be a great way to bulk up your credit profile. Ideally, they'll add you to an account that has been open for several years and which has a high credit limit or a low balance.\nBecoming an authorized user will only help you if the primary user's account is in good standing and you know that they're able to make their payments every month. If your parents sometimes miss their due dates, being added to their credit card could hurt your credit score.\nKeep in mind that if you do ask to be added to an account and are given a credit card, your parents or other loved one will be able to see everything you buy and how much you're spending. You may want to discuss any ground rules or expectations they have about how you'll use the card before they add you. That will help you avoid conflict when the bills start coming. END