Our economy is based on credit.
Most people finance their homes with mortgages and pay for their cars with loans.
Young people often obtain loans to pay for college. And, of course, countless people routinely make purchases with credit cards. We can't expect to receive credit as a matter of course, however. We must apply for it. And just as you would be hesitant to lend money to a stranger, no bank, retailer, or finance company will grant you credit without knowing something about you.