You don't need to carry credit card debt to build credit

A common myth is that you have to keep a balance on your credit card to improve your credit score. That's NOT true. You can always:

1. Use your card for small purchases you already planned to make.
2. Pay the balance in full every month.
3. Keep your credit utilization below 30% (under 10% is even better).

Your payment history is the biggest factor in your credit score, not how much interest you pay. Building good credit can make it easier to qualify for housing, lower insurance rates, and better loan terms in the future.