Answer: -You wouldnt have to face the high APR if you dont carry a balance. pay off the bills right away instead of doing the minimums. this will help your credit go up as well. -Build credit with bank account or two or three but its take about a year....meaning gaining interest and showing creditor that your are serious and you can save. i'm in the same situation...but im getting there. -Having a contract mobile phone (cellphone) can also be helpful as your monthly payments to this will show up on your credit score. I managed to get a contract phone when I had a bad credit score, and I think this helped improve my rating.