[oldmariner]

You don't need any, but they're very useful when used responsibly.

A person could theoretically go through their whole life (in the U.S.) and not need any form of credit, but that usually requires having money or capital upfront.

If you end up wanting to do something that requires a card (and cash, check etc isn't accepted as with most online payments), then it's better to use a credit card than a debit card as you have better protections in case something goes wrong or your card is skimmed.

[thr0w]

> but that usually requires having money or capital upfront.

I have a mortgage. My lender wanted a year's worth of utility bill payments in lieu of me not having a credit score.

[oldmariner]

Interesting. Did you ask or did they say how often they make that accomodation, or did they talk about any other similar kinds of accomodations?