A credit report is a summary of your credit history. You should take a look at yours, especially if you have problems with debt.

Our "cashless society" makes having available credit absolutely necessary.

How much credit you get will depend largely on what your credit report says. The information on it will determine your credit rating. The first step in managing your credit is to understand the possible reasons for being denied credit. It is also important to understand how to safely use your credit card for Internet purchases.

Even if you have a poor credit history or have declared bankruptcy, there are things you can do to reestablish credit. You also have certain rights if you are approached by a collection agency. And you may benefit from the services of a credit counseling agency.