How to get your first credit card with no credit history
Most starter credit cards require an existing credit score to qualify, creating a frustrating loop for people trying to build credit for the first time. The intentionally confusing and oversaturated market leaves applicants stuck between getting rejected by traditional banks or risking predatory options.
What people tried
Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.
- 1Getting any no annual fee card to build a profile
- 2Using online pre-approval tools with a soft pull
- 3Applying for student cards or secured credit cards
- 4Getting a low-limit, secured card like the Discover It
- 5Looking into alternative credit cards or joining a local credit union.
In their words
Unedited, most upvoted first, each linked to the thread it came from.
“I’m 19 and planning to get my first credit card. I bank with chase and wondering if u should get there cc or go with another credit card? If anyone can help me choose it would be very helpful”source ↗
“I’m a young adult making about 900-1100/week with my 2 jobs, and have a Bank of America account. I’m looking to get a credit card but not sure which one to get?”source ↗
“Everywhere says get a credit card to build your credit but nowhere wants to be your first credit card used to build credit.”source ↗
“So I ask yall what credit card should I get first. For very general credit purchases, just to start building credit and not for anything like traveling or crazy expenses just everyday usage to start building credit.”source ↗
“I never got a credit card or a loan in my life as I find credit can be a pretty big scam”source ↗
“I'd like to get a credit card so I can start building credit.”source ↗
“I find the market to be oversaturated and navigating getting a card feels very intentionally confusing”source ↗
Where this came up
People with this problem also raised
- 2How did my credit card get hacked while traveling?
- 2Should I use my personal phone number for a new business?
- 2Will putting a huge purchase on my credit card ruin my score?
- 3Why did my credit score drop after getting a new card?
- 5Why are even old used cars so expensive now?
- 2Should I switch to a high deductible plan if I need medical procedures?