When you apply for a credit card bank will usually ask you questions regarding your previous credit lines. Most young people do not have any type of credit history and this makes banks unable to positively respond to their application.

There are two things that you can do to go around this problem. One is looking for an issuer with a special offer, as there are many banks that offer credit cards for people who are just starting their first credit line. It is true that you will not have an extended credit line at first, but if you prove to be a good-payer and a loyal customer to bank, you are likely to receive more credit line in time.

If, however you cannot find an issuer that will give you a first chance with credit lines, you will need to build a credit history yourself. You can do this by getting credit cards from gas stations or from stores. There are gas stations, as there are supermarkets and department stores, which offer fidelity credit cards to their customers. Once you become owner of such a card, make sure to balance it wisely and after a couple of months you can re-apply for a bank-issued credit card.

I’m writing this to encourage everyone to do your own personal income tax return. Aside from fact that misery loves company, there are several legitimate reasons I feel you should join me in performing this annual ritual:

1. It’s fun! (okay, I didn’t think you’d buy that…) 2. It’s easy! (no?) 3. It’ll change your life! (?)

Alright, so above statements are a little exaggerated - there are elements of truth in each statement. First, while not necessarily fun, doing your own taxes will definitely provide a feeling of accomplishment and perhaps even a boost of confidence. Having tackled this task that is perceived by most to be difficult and daunting at best, you may raise your fist victoriously and cry “Ha!” in face of bureaucrats responsible for current tax code. After trudging through overly complex and horrendously long and confusing forms, instructions and IRS supplementary documentation, you will emerge brimming with confidence that having successfully completed your own return, there is not anything you can’t conquer – well, at least anything that comes on 8-1/2 x 11 forms. And hey, what’s more “fun” than staying up until all hours of morning, fueled by chasing caffeine pills with coffee, with Jay Leno pontificating in background while you stare at computer screen and fine print until your eyes throb from strain?