Two of the most important things you can do to maintain a good credit history are protect your credit rating and protect your privacy. First, it's very important to be aware of what's in your credit report. That way, if your identity has been stolen, you'll be aware sooner rather than later. Second, you need to make careful decisions about how you use credit.

- Separate your wants from your needs. Having credit can make it easy for you to spend above your means, so you need to set good spending habits.

- Compare your income to your expenses and set priorities, goals, and limits.

- Pay yourself first by saving money every month.

- Limit your number of credit cards and try to pay the balances in full every month.

- Get credit-counseling if you need it.