[Dries007]

> but as far as I'm aware, somebody with no credit history is basically indistinguishable from somebody with "good" history.

As it should be. Why would you want to allow someone to be judged for _not_ having been in debt in the past?

You can always ask for references if they rented before, that might help somewhat.

[grfhtsdfvv]

That’s like saying “why not hire someone that’s never worked as a software engineer to be your principal?” Why should they be judged for _not_ having a job in the past??

[lazide]

Because businesses need to make money to exist. Credit history == has successfully made other people money in the past, and if past behavior is indicative of future behavior, they likely will to someone else too.

[jrockway]

I don't think this really has any relationship. You can open an account and never use it, and your credit score is just as good as someone who borrowed $10,000 at 30% APR and makes the minimum payment every month. Probably better, because lower "credit utilization".

[Tijdreiziger]

If I pay a landlord rent every month, I make them money. I don’t need to take on any debt for that.

[jowea]

No comment on the fairness, but isn't the system beneficial for good borrowers?