Cell phones & Credit Scores, Oh My!

[flowershoes 2]

This is probably a relatively simple question that I just can't seem to figure out, but when you first moved to the states, and had no credit score to speak of, how did you go about obtaining a cell phone contract? Or does marriage mean that you take on your partner's credit score? SO CONFUSED!

[thedeerpanteth 0]

No, you attain your own credit score when you buy a car, apply for a credit card. You can get your own cellphone without having a contract, like metro pcs, cricket, tmobile prepared phone plan. You can't apply for credit score, it can only be earn.

[flora01 37]

This is probably a relatively simple question that I just can't seem to figure out, but when you first moved to the states, and had no credit score to speak of, how did you go about obtaining a cell phone contract? Or does marriage mean that you take on your partner's credit score? SO CONFUSED!

Your timeline is bit confusing,it starts on aug'13 and ends on jan'13

Yes ,i used my partners credit score for everything in starting few months

[flowershoes 2]

Your timeline is bit confusing,it starts on aug'13 and ends on jan'13

Yes ,i used my partners credit score for everything in starting few months

Blame my American Fiancee for upadating the signature at times!!! All of their dates are back-to-front Thanks for the headsup!

Did this mean that everything was solely in your partner's name, or did you cosign?

[flowershoes 2]

No, you attain your own credit score when you buy a car, apply for a credit card. You can get your own cellphone without having a contract, like metro pcs, cricket, tmobile prepared phone plan. You can't apply for credit score, it can only be earn.

Well, yes. I'm aware that you cannot simply apply for a credit score. I just wasn't sure if, once married, anything changed. I'm also aware of prepaid sim cards, perhaps they'll be an option I should look in to. Here in Aus prepaid sims are kind of a pain, and generally means you have to purchase a phone outright, which is something I definitely cannot afford to be doing right now!

Thanks for your input!

[flora01 37]

Blame my American Fiancee for upadating the signature at times!!! All of their dates are back-to-front Thanks for the headsup!

Did this mean that everything was solely in your partner's name, or did you cosign?

I used phone under his name for few months and opened credit card with the help of his credit score.

I still use that credit card but opened new one after 6 months when my credit was built.

There could be other options(i don't know) but i did this.

[darin&josh 18]

Look at the family plan options with your US partners phone carrier. They can add a line and contract to your partners account. While it won't be in your name, it usually is cheaper than having two individual plans and you won't have to buy a phone outright.

Also, talk to your partners bank about the best way to build your credit score. Depending on the types of accounts they have, this could be used to help you get a credit card in your name. Another option is to start with a secured credit card.

[flowershoes 2]

Look at the family plan options with your US partners phone carrier. They can add a line and contract to your partners account. While it won't be in your name, it usually is cheaper than having two individual plans and you won't have to buy a phone outright.

Also, talk to your partners bank about the best way to build your credit score. Depending on the types of accounts they have, this could be used to help you get a credit card in your name. Another option is to start with a secured credit card.

This is great information! Thanks

[Big Papa Zone 93]

Most carriers will let you have a contract cellphone without a credit history - if you're prepared to stump up a $500 deposit. I did, fwiw. Also,Capital One did a "starter" credit card for folks with little or no credit history which I also got - piddly little $300 limit, but it served it's credit building purpose. Oh, and a Macy's store card was the other thing I got early doors. That was all five years ago, with zero credit history (just a SSN). My credit score is in the 720 range now.