how can I extend credit to my accounts, how is this typically done?

Answer 1

Most banks/credit unions have lines of credit (LOC) that you can attach to a checking account. These will kick in when you over draw your account. The good ones do not charge anything when you are not using them, only interest for the time used.

Look for ones that have a monthly cycle opposite your checking account. Typically, checking accounts send out statements at the end of the month. If your LOC sends out statements on the 15th of each month, you will find out within two weeks if you have gone into your LOC. My credit union actually allows me to set up alerts for specific triggers; in this case the trigger is my LOC being used to advance my checking account.

I hope this is what you were looking for.