Trying to rebuild credit

[Anonymous]

Long story but I had my student loan go into default after a car accident, I have since paid it off and some other items on my credit report. I did get an auto loan through chase bank in march and it brought my credit score up to a 600. I don't want to apply for credit cards unless it will help bring it up and I will get approved. I really don't want a credit card but see no other way to help raise it. My goal is to get a mortgage within the next 2 years. Any suggestions on credit cards I might qualify for? Or any other ways to build up my score?

[Shogun]

A secured card would be a nice place to start.  Do you have a local bank or CU that offers them?  And yes Revolving credit accounts for 35% of your credit score, so it does help to demonstrate good revolving debt.

[Guyatthebeach]

There are two things I would consider attempting;

1. Talk to Chase about an unsecured credit card. You already have a car loan with them. After six months of the car, I think you have enough history there of ontime payments. If Chase doesn't approve it, get a secured credit card with a local credit union. The reason is credit unions are easier to work with and fees & interest rates will be less than regular banks.

2. I would get a secured loan for around $1000.00 just to add an extra positive loan line on your credit report. Make sure you set up automatic payments and be on time.

It sounds like you're in the right direction.  Just keep making payments on time on your car loan and your credit score willl still increase without much effort!