Start small

Credit cards are great for building credit if you use them responsibly. Start with a card that's catered to your needs. --Student credit card: If you're still in school, try a credit card geared toward students. Student credit cards are meant for younger consumers who generally don't qualify for high-end rewards credit cards. But there are some that offer cash back or other rewards. Check out the Discover it for Students or the Journey Student Rewards credit card from Capital One. --Secured credit card: If you have a low credit score or a thin file, consider a secured credit card, which generally guarantees approval. Secured credit cards require a cash deposit that serves as your credit limit. The deposit usually ranges from $300 to $500. These cards are good if you're just starting out because they're low risk. Consider the Capital One Secured MasterCard or the First Progress Platinum Elite MasterCard Call 1-800-442-1591