Best Credit Cards for Beginners with No Credit History
Why It’s Hard to Get a Credit Card with No History
Getting approved for a credit card without any credit history can feel like a catch-22. You need credit to build credit—but how do you get started?
Thankfully, many companies offer beginner credit cards designed for people just starting out.
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| Applying for a First Credit Card as a Beginner |
Top Credit Cards for People with No Credit
1. Discover it® Secured Credit Card
- ✅ No annual fee
- ✅ Reports to all 3 major credit bureaus
- ✅ Cashback on purchases (2% at gas stations and restaurants)
This is one of the most recommended secured cards for beginners. Plus, Discover will automatically review your account after 7 months for upgrade eligibility.
2. Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
- ✅ Minimum deposit starts at just $49
- ✅ Flexible credit line increases with responsible use
- ✅ Access to credit tracking tools
Ideal for students or young adults who want a no-frills way to build credit.
3. Petal® 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa Credit Card
- ✅ No security deposit required
- ✅ Designed for thin or no credit files
- ✅ 2%–10% cashback at select merchants
Unlike traditional cards, Petal evaluates your income and spending—not just your credit score.
Tips for First-Time Credit Card Users
- 💡 Pay your bill in full every month
- 💡 Keep your utilization below 30%
- 💡 Set up auto-pay to avoid late payments
- 💡 Use the card regularly—even small purchases help build history
FAQ
Q: Can I get a credit card if I’ve never borrowed money before?
Yes, many credit cards are designed for people with no prior credit history. Secured cards or fintech cards are good starting points.
Q: What is a secured credit card?
A secured card requires a refundable deposit, which becomes your credit limit. It helps you build credit just like a regular card.
Q: Will these cards improve my credit score?
Yes, as long as you make on-time payments and keep balances low, these cards will help establish and improve your credit.
Q: Should I get multiple cards to build credit faster?
Not at first. Start with one card and use it responsibly for 6–12 months before considering a second card.
Final Thought
Your first credit card is a stepping stone to bigger financial goals—like car loans, mortgages, and better rewards cards.
Choose wisely, build good habits early, and your future self will thank you.
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