Professor Ranjan George Offers Guidance for Building Credit Responsibly


Rutgers School of Business–Camden Instructor of Management Dr. Ranjan George was recently featured in a WalletHub article discussing credit cards for individuals with little or no credit history.
In the article, Dr. George explains the important role credit cards can play in establishing financial independence and building a strong credit profile. He notes that responsible credit card use can help individuals develop a positive credit history, which may later support access to mortgages, auto loans, educational financing, and other forms of credit. He also highlights additional benefits, including rewards programs, fraud protection, and financial flexibility.
Dr. George addresses common reasons some individuals may hesitate to apply for a credit card, including concerns about high interest rates, overspending, and accumulating debt. He emphasizes that the key to realizing the benefits of credit cards is maintaining financial discipline and paying balances in full whenever possible.
Dr. George also offers practical guidance for first-time applicants, encouraging consumers to provide accurate financial information, avoid excessive credit applications, and understand how debt-to-income ratios can affect approval decisions. He also discusses the similarities and differences between banks and credit unions, noting that both can provide valuable credit-building opportunities.
Through his insights, Dr. George underscores the importance of financial literacy and responsible credit management as foundational skills for long-term financial success.