If you're starting your credit journey from zero, you're not alone—and you're not stuck. Whether you’re a student, recent grad, or simply someone who’s avoided traditional credit, the good news is that you can build your credit from the ground up—and it’s easier than you think with the right tools.
At Liftoff, we believe credit shouldn’t be confusing or reserved for people with financial privilege. We make it simple, transparent, and powerful—because the sooner you start, the sooner your opportunities grow.
Why Building Credit Early Matters
A strong credit score opens doors. Whether you’re looking to get a car, rent your first apartment, finance a phone, or eventually buy a home—lenders look at your credit to decide if they trust you.
But here’s the challenge: to build credit, you often need credit. And that can feel like a catch-22 for people who are just getting started.
That’s where Liftoff changes the game. We provide tools that don’t require credit cards or debt to boost your score. You can finally get credit for the payments you’re already making—like rent and subscriptions—and begin your financial life on the right foot.
1. Report Your Rent Payments with Liftoff
Rent is likely your largest monthly bill. With Liftoff, it finally works for you—not just your landlord.
We report up to 24 months of rent payment history (plus your ongoing payments) to major credit bureaus like TransUnion and Equifax. This alone can boost your score by 40 points or more for many users—without taking on any new debt.
It’s simple:
· You pay rent as usual.
· We verify and report it.
· Your credit score grows.
This is one of the fastest and most impactful ways to build credit from scratch—far more effective than waiting months to see movement from a new credit card.
2. Liftoff’s Credit Builder Account
If you don’t qualify for traditional credit, Liftoff’s Credit Builder Account lets you safely build credit and savings.
Here’s how it works:
· You make small monthly payments into a locked savings account.
· Each payment is reported as an installment loan.
· At the end of the term, you unlock your savings.
You build credit and build your savings—at the same time.
3. Liftoff’s Rent + Subscription Reporting Combo
Already subscribed to Netflix, Spotify, or a gym membership? Liftoff can report those payments too. With our Subscription Manager, you can link eligible recurring payments and have them reported just like loan or credit payments. It’s an easy way to stack your credit file with positive payment history—even if you’re not ready for a credit card.
4. Secured Credit Card (with Caution)
If you’re open to traditional tools, a secured credit card can be a smart next step. You deposit a refundable amount—say $300—which becomes your limit. Use it sparingly, pay it off in full each month, and you’ll begin building revolving credit.
Liftoff helps you monitor your score growth so you’ll know exactly when you’re ready to apply for unsecured credit responsibly.
5. Always Pay On Time (It’s Everything)
Whether it's a rent payment or a phone bill, paying on time is the single most important factor in your credit score. With Liftoff, your rent, subscriptions, and other payments are automatically tracked and reported, helping you build a solid payment history effortlessly.
We also provide credit alerts and monitoring, so you stay informed of your progress and avoid costly mistakes.
6. Keep Balances Low
If you do open a credit card, aim to keep your usage below 30% of the limit—and lower is even better. For example, if you have a $300 limit, try to use less than $90 each month and pay it off completely.
Liftoff’s credit education tools help you understand these ratios and optimize them for maximum impact.
Your Credit Future Starts Now
Don’t let a lack of credit history hold you back from the opportunities you deserve. With Liftoff, you don’t need to wait, worry, or guess what to do next.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or trying to rebuild, Liftoff is your launchpad to stronger credit.
👉 Ready to take control?
Start building your credit with Liftoff today—no credit card required