Build up credit history in US

[NDman]

I am going to relocate to California for at least 2 years starting Feb/Mar 2008. I've heard from some of my friends who relocated earlier that their Canadian credit history wasn't recognized and they basically started from scratch (i.e. mostly cash transaction).

Is there a way to get a bit of a head-start on preparing for the build-up of credit history in the States while I am still in Canada? I know 3 months isn't much but anything has to count for something. Thanks ahead.

[westernartic]

You will need a usa sin card.

[asdfvcx]

If you already have a Canadian issued American Express card, then you can arrange for the Canadian division of AmEx to speak to the American division and help you get a US issued AmEx.

Second, you'll tend to have better luck with credit unions than larger banks. If you go into a credit union and talk to someone, they sometimes are willing and able to look up your Canadian credit history and issue credit based on that. They tend to be more flexible than bigger banks.

[B0000rt]

I am going to relocate to California for at least 2 years starting Feb/Mar 2008. I've heard from some of my friends who relocated earlier that their Canadian credit history wasn't recognized and they basically started from scratch (i.e. mostly cash transaction).

Is there a way to get a bit of a head-start on preparing for the build-up of credit history in the States while I am still in Canada? I know 3 months isn't much but anything has to count for something. Thanks ahead.

Assuming you're going be relocating there legally, you are entitled to a Social Security Number (SSN). You apply for this at your nearest Social Security Administration (SSA) office. Google it to find directions/locations. You'll need to bring all legal documents stating your legal status in the US (I-94 card, or whatever status you have)

There is one surefire way to get a credit card in the US with little to no hassle:
Assuming your Canadian credit is good, apply for a Canadian American Express now! When you move to the US, call the American American Express hotline (check their website) and ask to apply for an American American Express through a Canadian American Express. They should approve you immediately but usually for a lower credit limit (mine was $5000 vs $3000). If you already have your SSN, then tell them to take it and add this to your account so you can start building credit. If they make you jump through loopholes to add your SSN to your account (they may make you mail, or fax a copy of the SSN card in) just ask them to transfer you to card security services, who can enter it in directly. I don't believe Amex can/will report you to the credit bureaus until you have your SSN attached to your account..

So in short, no your credit rating will not transfer, but this is the most painless way to initially get an American Credit card to start rebuilding your American credit rating.

FYI Cali has high(er) taxes, you should feel right at home, financially ;)

[NDman]

Great advice, especially on the Amex one. Thanks a lot. Both my wife and I have good credit ratings last time we checked with TransUnion so that shouldn't be a problem.

Does the Costco Amex count? Or I should apply one directly through the Amex website?

[B0000rt]

I think the Costco Amex would count.

[jda]

Get an account with RBC Centura if you already have a RBC account.

RBC Centura is physically located in the US so you'll get US cheques and credit card. Like the previous poster said you'll need SSN to build up credit. So once you get to California, update your credit card account with SSN and your credit score will start to build up.

[B0000rt]

Get an account with RBC Centura if you already have a RBC account.

RBC Centura is physically located in the US so you'll get US cheques and credit card. Like the previous poster said you'll need SSN to build up credit. So once you get to California, update your credit card account with SSN and your credit score will start to build up.

RBC Centura locations can be found in
Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia
at this time.