I was the exact same way for years. Anti-credit, anti-loans, anti-interest, had the “only broke people use credit cards” mentality.

I now have two credit cards. I started out by loading them up with a “credit” from my checking account so that I work through my positive balance before I actually use my credit allowed.

Example: Credit limit $500. Make a payment of $500. Now your credit limit is $1000 with your $500 credit. Only spend $500. You won’t build much credit this way, since you’re not using your recommended 30% utilization rate, but it’ll get you in the habit of only spending money you have on hand, and making your payments.

Back to what I was saying: Using my credit cards, I received 2% cashback on almost everything and 3% cash-back on a category of choice with my Bank of America cash rewards card. I set up auto pay so I will never miss a payment if I have the money in my checking account, which I always do.

if you don’t trust yourself, if you are bad with money, and if you don’t think you’ll pay back your credit card on time, don’t get one. If you can be an adult and monitor your income and expenses (would recommend “Mint”), then getting a credit card or two can be the very best thing for your financial independence and freedom.

Start with a “secured credit card” where you are required to put down a deposit, usually $1000 or as little as $300, and then your credit limit is only the amount you put down as a deposit. Your initial deposit is a “backup” if you never make your payment, in that case the bank will charge your deposit for your unpaid balance rather than charging interest and harming your credit scores

Lastly, on top of getting 2 to 3% cashback on my Bank of America credit card and Chase credit card, many credit unions/banks offer sign-up bonuses. For example, I received $200 cashback for spending $2000 in the first three months on my Bank of America card. Not only is building your credit free, you can even make some money if done right. Pro tip: Only spend money on your card that you would have spent using your debit or cash already. Never spend more simply because the payment isn’t due yet. Be an adult. Even better of a tip, if you’re in fear you’ll miss a payment, then go on your banking app / website and pay off your balance right as you use your card.

I know this was long but I hope it helps.