American Express offers both charge cards and credit cards. VISA and MasterCard brands are only on credit cards, debit cards and pre-paid cards

We look at quotes from all over the internet and discuss why a great score has changed over the past 5 years

Banks like FICO '08 because it should lead to fewer defaults. For consumers, it should mean better scores for the occasional mishap folks and worse scores for those that are late or more credit distressed

Once you have a bank account, a secured credit card and then a personal installment loan from your bank or credit union will help establish credit

In 1996 TRW decided to spin off the credit business and it's now owned by Experian

The govt did this program to stimulate growth, but we like the idea of using this money to pay off credit card debt

Important to recognize that while not exactly the same, a FICO consumer report is providing a close guide

A good idea to pick one that is accredited and has low fees

Not a credit card, but it can teach teens responsible credit habits

While many card issuers offer these services, they are hard to find sometimes as many merchants seem to dislike them