Sorry to be the annoying European here, but the the American concept of building credit is really strange to me. Instead of just buying things with money I have, I am supposed to use the money as security for loans I don't need. That somehow proves that I am financially responsible in general.
I hear you. But you know as they say "When in rome...". The thing with American financial system is that your credit score/history is of significant importance if you want to part of the usual society. For example, to get a loan, they want to check your credit as it is a standard way of ensuring that you are an ok candidate. Does that work all the time ? Of course not. The 2008 financial crisis is a solid proof.
But the thing is that if not this, then what ? Not everyone can buy a house with cash. Ok, so then don't buy it unless you can pay all cash? Fine. Try renting an apartment without credit. Most of them will not talk to you. Now, What about employment with certain financially sensitive companies ? They check your credit..yes they do. It is a requirement to get an offer at those type of companies. Want to get car insurance ? They may check your credit history too. Of course you can choose not to drive a car. Did I forget to mention cell phone companies ? Yes, here in the US, most people get a post paid plan which involves checking credit. Could you use prepaid ? Sure you can but it is not very lucrative as you cannot get Iphones for $0.99 with prepaid plans.
So the point is that it is technically possible to not have any credit and get by specially if you have a lot of cash, but it is extremely difficult to get a lot of things done without credit in the US.
