Adding spouse to credit cards

[Canuck Carrie 1]

So just to confirm, adding the foreigner to the USCs credit cards isn't really a good idea if the USC doesn't have the best credit score?

[Adam M 0]

Hi guys, we're in a similar position to some other posters here, and would like some advice.

I am the alien, and my wife is the USC. She has poor credit (an outstanding debt which she abandoned - we're about to pay it off when we get the info, but it might take some time to clear things up).

Being the alien, I have 0 credit here. I'm interested in getting a secured credit card, or maybe even a Target store card or something (saw that recommended elsewhere). However, I don't have my EAD yet and all the applications ask for income details.

Has anyone sucessfully got a secured credit card or store card without having a job?! If so, who with?! I don't want to start applying to lots of places and getting turned down because 1. it puts my identity in jeapordy and 2. I don't suppose it will help my credit score (although I've never actually seen a negative score!).

All input is appreciated!

[cmartyn 0]

Without an SSN and an Income, they wont likely give you a secured card. If you have an SSN and no income you could erm fudge it. They will not check.

[Candace 2]

I do have a question though...

My fiancee has some debt. I won't go into detail about what kind of debt or the exact amount, but it's a fair amount. Would that debt affect me in any way? I'm more than willing to help her pay it off in time (I can't pay it all off in one lump sum, unfortunately...), but does debt in Canada transfer over and affect one's economic standing in the United States?

The short answer is that neither good nor bad credit from other countries comes to the US with an immigrant. It benefits some and disadvantages others.

I have a significant amount of debt in the UK. I guess I could have walked out on it seeing as I do not plan to move back there again, but I'm paying it back over time which makes me feel comfortable (I guess 'morally' would be a good way to put it.) The good thing about moving out of the country is that creditors are likely to have a much more 'friendly ear' seeing as they know there's a chance they could end up with nothing.

Good luck.

[broma25 2]

I am finally on the credit ladder and was just wondering does anyone know how long it takes to get a decent enough FICO score to buy a house.

[john_and_marlene 162]

I am finally on the credit ladder and was just wondering does anyone know how long it takes to get a decent enough FICO score to buy a house.

It's not just a function of time.

[broma25 2]

I am finally on the credit ladder and was just wondering does anyone know how long it takes to get a decent enough FICO score to buy a house.

It's not just a function of time.

Can you elaborate, assuming I use my card regularly and pay at least the minimum payment?