Greetings!
Even though this is my first post, I have lurked here since last year. I opted to make this my introductory topic due to how much I've read on the subject.
I started my credit rebuilding journey in August of last year. Back then, I had no credit and wanted to get back into the cc card game. Since my score was only 542, I felt like I wouldn't qualify for a traditional one; so after doing extensive research, I decided to go with the Discover it secured card. (I applied for the lowest deposit amount of $200 on 11 Aug 2019 and was approved.)
I honestly do not use my card often; however, whenever I do make purchases, I always pay them off in full and never leave more than a 5 percent balance for reporting purposes. Since the 20th marked the day that my 7th statement cut, I was curious to see what--if anything--Discover would do with my account; and when I checked my email this morning, I had one from them stating that I'll be getting my deposit back, and that my limit has been increased to $1,250.
I think that whether someone's card is "graduated" ultimately depends on factors BEYOND the management of said account (e.g., number of inquiries and/or new accounts opened). Over the past 7 months, I have only opened one additional cc (Quicksilver), and I also have an installment loan. I took the loan out solely for the tradeline/boost to my scores); and since I didn't need the money, I'm using the funds I borrowed to make my monthly payments. I do not apply for anything if I feel as though I won't be approved; and because of that methodology, I only have 3 inquiries on my reports that correspond to the accounts I currently have open.
Reading the information in the myFico forums has helped me tremendously; and although I cannot name fonts specifically, I thank and appreciate everyone who has provided invaluable information that helped get me to where I am now.
Starting Score: 560
