How to Build Credit as a U.S. Expat

If you're a U.S. expat or are on your way to becoming one, you're probably thinking about a lot of things — but your credit score back home may not be one of them. Here's why it should be, and how to keep building credit as a U.S. expat.

Why credit matters even abroad

Your U.S. credit score stays on file with the three major credit bureaus regardless of where you live. When you return to the U.S. — to buy a home, rent an apartment, or open a new account — your credit history will matter. Neglecting it while abroad can mean starting over.

Keep at least one U.S. credit account active

The simplest way to maintain your credit while abroad is to keep at least one U.S. credit card open and active. Use it occasionally for small purchases and pay the balance in full each month. This keeps your credit report active and your payment history positive.

Use a credit builder account

If you don't have a U.S. credit card or want to build a new tradeline, a tool like Kikoff can help. It requires no U.S. address verification beyond a standard sign-up and costs just $5/month. You can manage it entirely online.

A credit builder loan from a U.S. credit union is another option if you're still maintaining ties to a U.S. financial institution.

Set up autopay

Time zones and busy schedules abroad can lead to missed payments. Set up autopay on all U.S. accounts so that your credit building continues on autopilot no matter what's happening in your life.

Monitor your credit report

Pull your credit report from all three bureaus at least once a year. Verify that all accounts are accurate and there's no unauthorized activity. Identity theft is more difficult to resolve from abroad.

Conclusion

Building credit as a U.S. expat requires a bit of intentionality, but it's manageable. Keep one account active, pay on time, and use Kikoff to stay on top of your credit entirely online — no physical presence in the U.S. required.