How hard is it to get a credit card with no credit?

It’s not very hard to get a credit card with no credit if you choose the right card to apply for – one designed for people with limited credit history. These cards often come with low annual fees, even $0, so you can build credit inexpensively, and some cards also offer rewards.

To get a credit card with no credit, you should start by comparing the fees, rewards and interest rates on credit card offers for applicants with no credit history in order to find the right starter card to match your needs. Then, simply submit an application and wait for a decision. But before you do any of that, you may want to confirm that you indeed do not have any credit history. If it turns out you do have some credit history, it could be a good thing as you may qualify for better cards, or it could be a bad thing and force you to get a card with less favorable terms. You can check your credit score for free on WalletHub to be sure.  

Best Credit Cards for No Credit

4 Easy Steps to Get a Credit Card with No Credit

1. Compare starter credit cards. There are several different types of starter credit cards for people who have no credit. There are student credit cards, secured credit cards and unsecured credit cards for no credit.

   You can use WalletHub’s comparison tool to compare cards’ fees, interest rates and rewards, if they have any, to find the card that’s best for you.

2. Read the fine print. It’s a good idea to read over the card’s terms and conditions to make sure you understand any fees that you will be charged or credit card features that are not allowed, like balance transfers or cash advances.
3. Fill out an application. Filling out a credit card application takes minutes, especially if you fill one out online. All you will need is your name, address, Social Security number or ITIN, and some information about your finances like your income and monthly rent or mortgage payment. Some card issuers may request more information.
4. Wait for a decision. If you filled out an application online, you may be able to get a decision within minutes. If not, you should hear back in about a week. If approved, you’ll receive your card within 7-10 business days after approval. If you don’t get approved, you may want to consider a secured credit card or becoming an authorized user on someone else’s credit card account.

   Getting a credit card is the easy part, actually. Once you have one, you have to put in the work to build your credit by paying your credit card bill on time every month and keeping your credit utilization low. For more tips, check out WalletHub’s guide to building credit.