[ptsal]

Okay, now get rid of the credit cards and pay cash.

Then, ask the question about the credit score.

The whole FICO scam is based upon perpetual debt.

[Simon Green]

Okay, now get rid of the credit cards and pay cash. Then, ask the question about the credit score.

Why in the world would I want to do that? By continually taking out credit cards for their signup bonuses and paying off all balances every month without fail, I earn so many airline points that I can take two international business/first class trips a year for virtually no cost.

I'm going to Vietnam and Thailand in January, flying Japan Airlines first class on the way out and Cathay Pacific first class on the way back. Total cost: 145,000 Alaska Airlines points and $130 in fees. Cost of ticket if paid for entirely in cash: $19875.

[SamAdams76]

I've been debt free for nearly two decades and my credit score is very high. So that blows up your narrative. Sorry.

I think it's admirable that the younger people are looking to get good credit scores. It means they are fiscally responsible and the conservatives of tomorrow are thus being groomed.

[trebb]

Yep - my credit score is under 800 because I don’t carry enough debt and it’s been 15 years since I had a loan...use plastic for most monthly spending and pay off in full each month - which hurts because I constantly show some balance on the card...paid the house off 15 years ago and paid cash for the cars since then...