Credit Cards & Establishing Credit

bbradyc5 · Post by **bbradyc5** » Wed Oct 12, 2005 7:00 pm

I will be moving to the US from Canada soon and have researched what I could find on trying to establish a new credit history in the US and the frustration people usually end up having. I have applied for a TD GM VISA as I have read that this is one of the few cards that they will convert to a US Charge Card. Can anyone with this experience explain the details on this process? Also, with my current charge card, Capital One, can I keep this account open when I move for the short term, or am I forced to clos this account immediately? Any help or nput anyone can provide on the best measures to take to try and establish a new credit history ASAP in the US is gladly appreciated.

The newest Detroit suburb ...... Windsor!

Pamela · Post by **Pamela** » Wed Oct 12, 2005 7:45 pm

You are doing the right thing, applying for a credit card that will convert to a US card. Do not close your Capital One card. Just change your address with them. It is very handy to keep Cdn credit cards on the go - for visits, Cdn on-line purchases, etc. Even if your new Cdn credit card can be converted to a US card, it will take a while (maybe 6 months) to get into the "system". And many places will still deny you credit because of too short a credit history.

bbradyc5 · Post by **bbradyc5** » Thu Oct 13, 2005 8:52 am

Thanks Pamela, will Capital One give me a hassle when trying to change my new address to a US address or is it no problem at all?

The newest Detroit suburb ...... Windsor!

Pamela · Post by **Pamela** » Thu Oct 13, 2005 10:34 am

It's a simple address change, nothing more. Same as letting friends and other businesses know.

nelsona · Post by **nelsona** » Thu Oct 13, 2005 11:34 am

We have has TD visa card with our US address for years now.

No issues, and great for Cdn purchases/vacations, etc.

<i>nelsona non grata... and non pro</i>

flames9 · Post by **flames9** » Thu Oct 13, 2005 5:28 pm

I'm a Cdn down here in the USA(permanent resident--cr-1 visa) I have been told American Express will transfer a Cdn account to an American one. From my understanding many USA companies can search your CDn credit history, but many are to lazy to do so. Best of luck

sam75 · Post by **sam75** » Fri Oct 14, 2005 10:03 am

For some reason, I didn't face this credit history problem - probably because after moving here I kept my job and used all my build up vacation where I was able to claim the Canadian employment income as my source. And I got 2 CC in 2 weeks.

With MBNA MC and CIBC Visa - I had problem in changing to a US address but while applying in USA, MBNA did recognize my Canadian Credit history and help me establish a new one in USA. They simply asked for my Canadian SIN and DL#.