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Best credit cards for no credit history in October 2023

Updated September 28, 2023

Credit card issuers often offer credit cards to consumers who have no credit history to help build credit from scratch. In time, you can improve your credit history and score by using a credit card responsibly, making on-time payments and limiting how much available credit you use. A positive credit history could open the door to better rates and more financial services. Here’s how we compared the best offers from our credit card partners to help you find the best credit card for no credit history.

Image of Discover it® Student Cash Back

BEST STUDENT CARD WITH ROTATING BONUS CATEGORIES

Discover it® Student Cash Back

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on Discover's secure site
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0 Bankrate review
Info

Intro offer

Info

Annual fee

Recommended credit

No Credit History
Info
Image of Secured Chime® Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card
Apply now Lock
on Chime's secure site
Rating: 4.2 stars out of 5
4.2 Bankrate review
Info

Intro offer

N/A

Annual fee

Recommended credit

No Credit History
Info
Image of Discover it® Secured Credit Card

Best secured card FOR GAS AND DINING

Discover it® Secured Credit Card

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on Discover's secure site
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0 Bankrate review
Info

Intro offer

Info

Annual fee

Recommended credit

No Credit History
Info
Image of Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card

Best for accessing a higher credit line

Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card

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on Capital One's secure site
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1 Bankrate review
Info

Intro offer

N/A

Annual fee

Recommended credit

No Credit History
Info
Image of Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card
Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site
Rating: 3.8 stars out of 5
3.8 Bankrate review
Info

Intro offer

N/A

Annual fee

Recommended credit

No Credit History
Info
Image of Self - Credit Builder Account with Secured Visa® Credit Card
Apply now Lock
on Self's secure site
Rating: 3.1 stars out of 5
3.1 Bankrate review
Info

Intro offer

N/A

Annual fee

Recommended credit

No Credit History
Info
Image of OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
Apply now Lock
on Capital Bank's secure site
Rating: 3.1 stars out of 5
3.1 Bankrate review
Info

Intro offer

N/A

Annual fee

Recommended credit

No Credit History
Info

Compare Bankrate's top credit cards for no credit history

Card name Best for Bankrate review score
Discover it® Student Cash Back Student card with rotating bonus categories 5.0 / 5
(Read full card review)
Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa Credit Card Best for flexible deposit 4.2 / 5
(Read full card review)
Discover it® Secured Credit Card Secured card for gas and dining 5.0 / 5
(Read full card review)
Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card Accessing a higher credit line 4.1 / 5
(Read full card review)
Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards credit card Best starter rewards card 3.8 / 5
(Read full card review)
Self – Credit Builder Account with Secured Visa Credit Card Building credit with savings 3.1 / 5
(Read full card review)
OpenSky Secured Visa Credit Card No credit check 3.1 / 5
(Read full card review)
Zolve Azpire Credit Builder Card + Checking Account Best for people without SSNs 3.5 / 5
(Read full card review)

A closer look at our top credit cards for no credit history

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Discover it® Student Cash Back

Best student card with rotating bonus categories

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Discover is one of the few issuers to offer an intro APR offer for students with little-to-no credit history. 

Students who don’t mind tracking and enrolling in bonus categories to maximize reward earning potential

The Discover it® Student Chrome offers rewards on a couple of popular spending categories like dining and gas, but skips out on the hassle of tracking and enrolling in bonus categories each quarter.

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Secured Chime® Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card

Best for FLEXIBLE DEPOSIT

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It’s incredibly light on fees. This card has no interest charges, no annual fees, and even no cash advance fees. It also doesn't require a lump-sum minimum security deposit as with traditional secured cards. These features make the Secured Chime Credit Builder card an incredibly low-cost, flexible way for people to build credit.

Tech-savvy consumers who have no credit history. Chime is an online financial technology company with no physical locations — all the account management is done online or on its app.

Two similar cards are the Zolve Azpire, which also backs cardholders’ purchases with deposits in an accompanying checking account, and the Self — Credit Builder Account with Secured Visa, which provides a credit-builder loan as a precursor to a secured credit card.

Read our full Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa review or jump back to offer details.

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Discover it® Secured Credit Card

Best secured card FOR GAS AND DINING

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Discover will automatically match all of the cash back that you earned at the end of your first year — a great bargain for a starter credit card.

Foodies, roadtrippers and credit-builders who want to earn rewards, but may not have the credit requirements for a more lucrative rewards card may enjoy this Discover option.

If you don’t mind keeping up with rotating categories and enrollment dates (and you’re a student), the Discover it® Student Cash Back has the same welcome offer program and higher rewards rates in specified bonus categories.

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Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card

Best for accessing a higher credit line

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This card is one of the only secured options that may reward you with a credit limit that’s higher than your initial deposit. You also have the option to pay the security deposit in installments over a 35-day period.

People focusing solely on building credit who aren’t set on earning rewards

The Citi Secured Mastercard is another low-cost and no-fuss option for anyone who is set on building credit first before needing the added incentive of earning rewards.

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Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

Best starter rewards card

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This card is one of only a handful of secured cards that earns rewards and offers cardholders the chance to graduate to an unsecured credit card with responsible use.

Credit-builders interested in upgrading to a Capital One rewards card after they’ve improved their credit score

The Merrick Bank Secured Credit Card won’t earn rewards, but it offers a relatively low APR. If you aren’t able to pay your balances in full each month, having a low APR is much more important than earning rewards. Or, if you’re looking for ways to build credit outside of getting a credit card, you can tap into tools like UltraFICO and Experian Boost to build credit.

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Self - Credit Builder Account with Secured Visa® Credit Card

Best for building credit with savings

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The combination of a savings account and a secured credit card, especially because neither requires a hard inquiry on your credit report

Enthusiastic credit-builders who want to build savings while building credit or who want a headstart on establishing a credit mix

A more straightforward card with rewards is the Discover it® Secured Credit Card. A standard $200 security deposit will get you immediate access to a credit line and rewards on spending in a few popular categories.

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OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card

Best for no required credit check

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You can be approved for this card while skipping a credit check altogether. You don’t even need a bank account to apply. 

Credit-builders with negative marks on their credit report could have an easier time qualifying for this card than other credit-builder cards. 

This card has an added annual fee on top of the required security deposit, but the lack of a credit check can be fairly enticing. The Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card has no annual fee and the minimum security deposit you put down can be as low as $49, $99 or $200, so it could be a more cost-effective alternative.

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Zolve Azpire Credit Builder Card + Checking Account

Best for people without SSNs

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It doesn’t have any typical credit card fees. In fact, it may be one of the only credit cards that doesn’t charge interest. Instead, Zolve deducts your purchase amounts from a deposit account that you fund.

People without Social Security numbers coming to the U.S. on student or work visas that want to start building credit history in the country

While most cards do not consider foreign credit history, American Express is one of few issuers that looks at credit history outside the U.S. from select countries. If you are new to the country but have credit from another country, then this might be a good option.

What is credit history and why is it important?

Your credit history, detailed in your credit report, is a record of your activity as a borrower and credit user. A positive credit history with little to no delinquencies or late payments indicates that you’re a reliable and financially responsible borrower.

Without a documented credit history, lenders have no record of your ability to pay back debt. If someone has no credit history, they will likely have trouble getting approved for loans and credit cards. Without access to traditional loans, people with no credit are more likely to fall prey to predatory lending practices, such as payday loans, which can come with sky-high interest rates that keep people stuck in a cycle of debt.

If used responsibly, a credit card can help you build credit when you have no credit history. For instance, your payment history makes up 35% of your FICO score, so paying on time and in full can significantly impact your credit score. Other factors like length of credit history and how much debt you owe also play a role. The longer your credit card account is open and the less you owe can help you increase your score.

Pros and cons of credit cards for no credit

Pros

  • Checkmark

    Easier approval: Credit cards for no credit have more relaxed application requirements than their good credit counterparts.

  • Checkmark

    Built-in credit tools: Many credit card issuers, such as Discover, offer free credit score snapshots that can help cardholders monitor and track their credit scores.

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    Launchpad for credit building: Since many credit cards for no credit history report credit activity to the three credit bureaus, it could be one of the best starting points for building credit from scratch.

Cons

  • Lower credit limits: You typically won’t find credit limits over $3,000 with credit cards for people with no credit history, which can make it difficult to keep your credit utilization ratio in check.

  • Higher APRs: Secured credit cards and credit cards for bad or no credit tend to have higher APRs than other cards, so carrying a balance is more costly.

  • Little to no introductory offers: You’ll be hard-pressed to find 0 percent APR offers on balance transfers or purchases with cards for no credit history, which are abundant on cards for good or excellent credit.

Who should get a credit card for no credit history?

Still unsure on the right card type for you? Check out our Credit Card Spender Type Tool where you can get personalized credit card recommendations based on your credit score, spending habits and daily needs.

How to choose a credit card for no credit history

You may be unsure where to begin when choosing your first credit card, but here are a few questions you should ask yourself before making the final decision. 

Is the card secured or unsecured?

Credit cards can either be secured or unsecured. Secured credit cards typically require a security deposit that the issuer uses to recoup any losses if you default on payments, while unsecured credit cards don’t have a deposit. 

Is there an annual fee or other fees?

Getting a card with no annual fee will be more helpful long term, because it won’t cost you anything to have it in your wallet. Also, if a card has minimal additional fees, such as no late fees, no penalty APR or no foreign transaction fees, it becomes a more appealing choice. However, if a card charges both an annual fee and several additional fees or a security deposit, you should avoid this more costly option, if possible.

What does the card application require?

One of the key assets of a credit card for no credit history is that the application requirements are typically easier to meet. Some of these cards do not require a credit check at all, or use other means to determine creditworthiness, such as checking account activity. Some also don’t require a Social Security number (SSN) to apply, which removes a substantial barrier. You’ll want to keep features like these in mind if they apply to your situation and can make getting a card a little easier.

Does the card report to all three credit bureaus?

One of the most significant actions that your first credit card can do to help you develop your credit history is to record your activity to all three main credit agencies: TransUnion, Equifax and Experian. As a result, your payment history is now part of your credit report and future lenders and creditors can see your credit history. However, you must maintain a positive credit history since any negative marks will appear in your report.

Does the card offer opportunities to upgrade?

Another credit-building feature that could be helpful is the chance to upgrade to an unsecured card, a card that has better features and perks, or a card with a higher credit limit once you've established a positive payment history. If you can upgrade with the same issuer using the same credit line, you might not have to apply elsewhere for a better card and risk another ding on your credit report with a hard credit inquiry.

Does the card offer rewards?

While earning rewards shouldn't be the main focus as you build credit, some cards for no credit do offer rewards points or cash back, which could put money back in your pocket. However, if you'd rather focus on building positive credit with no distractions or if a rewards structure might tempt you to overspend, a rewards card might not be the best option.

What you need to get a credit card when you have no credit history

Accessing a credit card without a credit history is not impossible, though you’ll have to meet certain requirements. Make sure you check a few boxes below and you can be on your way to establishing a credit history in no time.

  • You must be at least 18 years old. You cannot be approved for your own credit card as a minor. Even at 18 to 20 years old, you have to provide proof of independent income or have a parent or guardian co-sign on your application, as required by the Credit CARD Act of 2009.
  • Credit card applications will ask for your annual income, so you must have an income source or access to one. If you don’t have an independent source of income, you may list your parent’s, guardian's or partner’s income, as long as you have “reasonable expectation of access” to that money, like having a shared bank account. 
  • You’ll usually need a Social Security number or an ITIN. In most cases, you must provide your SSN on a credit card application. However, some issuers may accept an ITIN instead of a SSN. An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to a tax-paying individual who lives in the U.S. and does not have a Social Security number. Keep in mind that you may still be denied for a credit card, despite also having an ITIN.

There may be other criteria you have to meet depending on the type of credit card for no credit history you apply for. Student credit cards often require you to show proof of enrollment; secured credit cards require applicants to put down a deposit as collateral in exchange for access to a credit line.

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Bankrate Insight

If you don’t meet all of the requirements to get a credit card, one option is to become an authorized user on a parent or guardian’s credit card. There is no age requirement to become an authorized user, and you’ll also be able to build credit.

Tips on applying for your first credit card

Your first-ever credit card application doesn’t have to be intimidating. Consider a few guidelines that can help you prepare:

  • Credit Card Search

    Look for pre-approval offers

    Credit card issuers and other types of lenders can perform two kinds of credit checks when someone submits an application: a hard inquiry and a soft inquiry. Both of these inquiries impact your score differently. A hard inquiry will temporarily lower your credit score while a soft inquiry has no effect. Pre-qualified offers don’t require a hard inquiry, so keep an eye out for pre-qualification features like CardMatch™. You can get a better idea of which cards you might qualify for without taking a short-term hit on your credit score.

  • Online

    Be ready to submit some information

    It's routine for the card application process to require some basic information, even if you have no credit history. The issuer will need to verify your identity, which is why you'll be asked for details such as your full name, date of birth, Social Security number and address. Before you apply for a card, make sure you have this information ready.

  • Document

    Limit the number of applications

    Applying for multiple cards in a short period of time could signal to lenders that you want more credit than you can responsibly handle. Also, remember that credit applications involving a hard inquiry will lower your credit score temporarily. The ding to your credit score for one inquiry is small, but multiple inquiries could make a difference. Be selective about which cards you apply for and when.

How to make the most of your starter card

  • Make building credit a priority. As you learn more about credit, remember that the primary function of a starter card is to kick off your credit-building journey. While some cards offer rewards, the most beneficial starter credit cards will incentivize good credit habits in other ways. Often these include higher credit limits and, of course, a higher score over time.
  • Use credit monitoring tools. One hallmark feature of many starter credit cards is an issuer’s tools to help track your progress, like snapshots of your FICO score, payment due date reminders and spend analysis breakdowns.
  • Don’t be afraid to start slow. Take your time as you build your credit, as there’s no need to run up balances or open too many cards at once to try to speed up the process. In fact, behaviors like these may be harmful. Start by making small purchases, paying them off immediately and setting up payment reminders so you never miss your bill due date.

How to establish credit with a credit card

  1. Check your credit report before getting started

    Reading your credit report will give you an idea of where you stand. Even if you haven’t begun your journey yet, errors can appear on your credit report, so it’s best to check ahead of time to be sure you’re not wrongfully disadvantaged. Upon request, each of the three major credit bureaus provide a free copy of your credit report once a year.

  2. Apply for a credit card

    Opening a credit card account is a major step on the road to building credit history, so take time to find the right one. Evaluate the key features, credit score requirements and any fees. Also, make  sure the card reports to the credit bureaus, as they are the agencies that create your credit report. Pay particular attention to the annual percentage rate (APR), which determines how much interest you pay for carrying a balance.

  3. Practice good spending habits

    Overspending with your card could affect your credit utilization, which is a ratio of how much credit you use versus how much you have available. In general, it’s best to keep your credit usage under 30 percent.

  4. Pay your credit card bill on time and in full

    Making it clear that you can consistently pay on time and in full will do wonders for your credit score. If you don’t pay your balance in full each month or miss one payment, you may be subject to added interest, which applies to any unpaid charges carried over from one billing cycle to the next.

  5. Keep the credit card account open

    The length of credit history is the average age of all your credit accounts and accounts for 15 percent of your credit score. Even if you cancel a credit card in good standing, the effect on someone with a limited credit history can be great. When you close a credit card, it also affects your credit utilization ratio.

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Although it’s generally a good idea to keep credit card accounts open while building credit, you may ultimately want to close an account if you no longer use it and it carries too many fees or requires a security deposit that you want back. Consider closing the card (or cards) you’ve had for the shortest amount of time over older accounts.

Credit-building alternatives to credit cards

Credit cards can be excellent credit-building tools when used correctly. They offer flexibility and protections that debit cards just can’t match (some even reward you for using them). But if you don’t want a credit card or are having a hard time qualifying for one, it's possible to build your credit without using a credit card.

  • Loan Student

    Pay your student loans

    Your student loans can impact your credit score — positively or negatively. If your payment history is positive — that is, you pay your bills on time each month — it can boost your credit score. The opposite action will negatively impact your score. Having your student loans on your credit profile also lengthens your credit history, and it can provide you with a good credit mix. Creditors like seeing a variety of accounts on your credit report.

  • Credit Good

    Use Experian Boost

    Experian Boost is a credit-building tool that helps you boost your credit score using bills you already pay. This service monitors your bill payment behavior and reports it to the three credit bureaus. Users will get a boost to their scores for paying rent, utility bills and streaming services. You can add up to 24 months of data when you get started with Experian Boost, giving your credit score two years of positive credit behaviors instantly.

  • Loan
    Get a credit-builder loan

    credit-builder loan is a great choice for credit-builders and you can access one through your current bank or credit union. These types of loans are typically much easier to qualify for than traditional, unsecured loans. They also carry lower interest rates, as they’re less risky for the creditor. If you borrow the lowest amount possible and pay it off on time, your issuer will report this positive payment history to the credit bureaus. With positive credit behaviors over time, you may see your credit score improve.

  • Auto Car

    Consider a car loan

    A car loan may be an option if you already have a loan or are in the market for a new car. Since credit mix is a component of your FICO score, auto loans you pay on time can help build your credit. 

    If you are already making car payments, make sure they appear on your credit report. If you are shopping for a car, think about getting a loan to help finance the purchase so that it’s in your credit history. However, keep in mind that a car loan will only be helpful if you make your payments on time.

  • Badge

    Become an authorized user

    Perhaps one of the simplest ways to build credit without a credit card is to become an authorized user on another cardholder's account, such as a partner, spouse or parent. Many issuers allow cardholders to add authorized users, typically with no added cost. As an authorized user, you can establish a positive payment history on the main cardholder's account. This can be a great option if both you and the primary user spend responsibly.

How we assess the best cards for building credit

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When evaluating the best cards for building credit, we consider a mix of factors, including how cards score in our proprietary card rating system and whether cards offer features that make it easy to build credit history while minimizing costs.

We analyzed over 50 of the most popular cards designed for people with no credit history and rated each based on its cost, APR, credit-building features and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup.

Here are some of the key factors that we considered: 

Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email, find us on Facebook, or Tweet us @Bankrate.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

More information on credit cards for no credit history

Frequently asked questions about credit cards for no credit history