Having little to no credit — what’s known as a “thin file” — can be a challenge. Without much credit history, it’s more difficult to qualify for things like a car loan or a credit card, even if you’re financially responsible.
That’s the situation Aldo faced at VyStar’s Oviedo branch. He joined when the branch opened in 2020 and recently came in ready to buy his first car. But with no established credit, his application couldn’t be approved. Yet.
That’s when Nadine, an employee at the Oviedo branch, stepped in to help.
Putting a Plan in Place
While the member’s initial car loan application was declined, Nadine saw it as an opportunity rather than a permanent obstacle. She took time to meet with him, review his financial picture and explain why credit history matters. Then she outlined a clear, step-by-step plan to begin building one.
Together, they started with the basics: a VyStar Visa® Savings Secured credit card to establish a payment history, and a small secured loan to add variety to his credit profile. The Savings Secured card is designed to help establish credit or rebuild your credit and uses your VyStar savings account as collateral.
These tools weren’t just about building credit. They were about building confidence. And with each on-time payment, that’s exactly what happened.
A Full-Circle Moment
A few months later, Aldo visited the Oviedo branch with a stronger credit file and a clear sense of progress. When he met with Nadine again, the results were different.
He was approved for a car loan and refinanced another vehicle, saving over $150 a month. The member felt confident in the choices he made, knowing Nadine had guided him every step of the way.
No credit doesn’t have to mean no options. With the right support and a plan that works, it’s possible to go from starting out to driving off — and to feel proud of every step of the way.
VyStar's Better Banking Stories series showcases real members and the VyStar employees who go above and beyond to help them.