Credit 101
Learn credit basics
As of 2026-07-19, building credit and financial literacy are essential life skills that can benefit individuals in the long run. According to the [Federal Trade Commission](https://www.ftc.gov/), understanding how credit works is crucial for making informed decisions about money.
Introduction to Credit
Building credit is a process that requires patience, discipline, and knowledge. The [Consumer Financial Protection Bureau](https://www.consumerfinance.gov/) recommends that young people start learning about credit as early as possible.
Types of Credit
There are several types of credit, including credit cards, loans, and mortgages. The [Federal Reserve](https://www.federalreserve.gov/) provides information on the different types of credit and how they work.
Credit Scores
Credit scores are three-digit numbers that represent an individual's creditworthiness. The [Fair Isaac Corporation](https://www.fico.com/) provides information on how credit scores are calculated and what factors affect them.
Building Credit
Building credit requires making regular payments on time and keeping credit utilization low. The [National Foundation for Credit Counseling](https://www.nfcc.org/) recommends that young people start building credit by becoming authorized users on their parents' credit cards or by taking out a small loan.
Concrete Examples
For example, if a 16-year-old becomes an authorized user on their parent's credit card, they can start building credit by making regular payments on time. Another example is taking out a small loan, such as a [student loan](https://studentaid.gov/), and making regular payments to build credit.
Financial Literacy
Financial literacy is also essential for making informed decisions about money. The [Jumpstart Coalition](https://www.jumpstart.org/) provides resources and information on financial literacy for young people.
Conclusion
In conclusion, building credit and financial literacy are essential life skills that can benefit individuals in the long run. By understanding how credit works and making informed decisions about money, young people can set themselves up for financial success.