This Redditor Had a Good Credit Score — But It Still Almost Screwed Them
Reddit user redboxmike told a story that’s a hard relate for a lot of Gen Z and college grads: “I had a good credit score… but almost couldn’t get a car because I had no credit history.”
He got a credit card in high school, never used it (thinking that was smart), and years later got smacked with a “thin file” denial. Good credit score? Yes. Enough activity to get approved? Not even close.
Let’s break down how to avoid this — and how to actually build a credit profile that works for you, not against you.
Why Credit History Matters (More Than You Think)
Your credit score is made up of five key components:
- 35%: Payment history
- 30%: Credit utilization
- 15%: Length of credit history
- 10%: New credit
- 10%: Credit mix (cards, loans, etc.)
Most young people focus on score — but what lenders care about is history. They want to see you’ve been managing credit responsibly over time.
That’s why you can have a 720+ score but still get denied for a loan if you’ve never actually used a credit card, paid bills on credit, or had any revolving accounts.
Start here: What Is a Credit Score (And Why You Should Care) →
Why You Need a Credit Card in Your Early 20s
- Start building credit history now — even if you don’t need it yet
- Helps you qualify for: cars, apartments, jobs, even phones
- Using a card (responsibly) shows lenders you can handle money
- Longer history = better scores later
Redboxmike didn’t use his credit card at all. He thought “never using it” was responsible. But the system rewards use + repayment — not avoidance.
How to Use a Credit Card Without Getting Wrecked
1. Open a Starter Card
Look for student credit cards, secured cards, or no-annual-fee options like:
- Capital One Quicksilver Student
- Discover It Student Cash Back
- Wells Fargo Active Cash (if you qualify)
2. Use It for Something Small (Every Month)
Spotify, gas, one takeout order — whatever. Just make sure the card is used. Set it to autopay if needed.
3. Never Go Over 30% of Your Limit
If your limit is $1,200, don’t spend more than $400. That keeps your “utilization” low — which boosts your score.
4. Always Pay in Full
Never carry a balance. You do not need to pay interest to build credit. That’s a myth. Paying it off immediately still boosts your score.
Use this to stay on track: Budget on $1,000 a Month →
What to Do If You’re Starting Late
No shame. Start now. Even opening your first card at 24 can help you qualify for better car loans, housing, and jobs by 26.
Also smart: add yourself as an authorized user on a family member’s old, well-managed card (with their permission). You inherit their credit history — no debt involved.
Final Thoughts
Redboxmike’s story is real. Good credit doesn’t matter if no one can see proof you’ve used it. If you’re 18+, apply for a card, use it monthly, and pay it off immediately. That’s it. No lifestyle inflation, no interest, no debt — just results.
Build your credit before you need it. That way, when real life hits, you’re already covered.
TL;DR:
- A good credit score is useless without history
- Open a starter card in your early 20s (or earlier)
- Use it for 1-2 small things monthly
- Keep usage under 30% of your limit
- Always pay your statement in full — no balance, no interest
