How do utilities extend credit and how can this help you establish a credit history? Utilities extend credit by: lending money to customers upon application and review of application help0hng borrowers negotiate with financial institutions. Provide a service and billing at the end of the period. accepting credit cards This can help you establish a credit history because long-term credit builds a good credit rating for the consumer when payments are made early. This type of credit is the most reliable short-term credit builds a good credit rating for the consumer when payments are made timely this practice has extended to other industries