Best Credit Cards for No Credit (or Limited Credit) in August 2025
Winner: Best credit card for no credit history
Winner: Best credit card for no credit history
Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card
The Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card is our top pick among the best credit cards for no credit — it requires no credit score to apply, charges a $0 annual fee and allows you to earn rewards while building or rebuilding your credit.
Key takeaways
- Limited credit history generally refers to people with a FICO score between 300 and 579.
- Credit cards for no credit or limited credit can help you build your credit, showing lenders that you’re financially responsible and ultimately giving you a much wider array of credit card options.
- The best cards for no credit include secured and unsecured credit cards and student credit cards. They often have no annual fee and offer cash back rewards.
Top 7 credit cards for people with no credit
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | Regular APR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card*
|
Winner
|
1.5% cash back
| $25 statement credit
Earn a $25 statement credit when you sign up for automatic payments within the first three months of opening your account and remain enrolled for at least 90 days.
| 25.99% Variable | |
Petal® 2 Cash Back, No Fees Visa® Credit Card*
|
Easy to get
|
1% - 10% cash back
| N/A | 28.99% - 30.99% | |
Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card*
|
No credit check
|
N/A | N/A | N/A | |
Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
|
College students
|
1% - 8% cash back
| $100 Cash Back
Earn $100 Cash Back when you spend $300 in the first three months
| 19.24% - 29.24% (Variable) | |
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
 Apply Now
on Discover's secure site Rates & Fees |
Secured card
|
1% - 2% cash back
| Match all cash back
Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.
| 27.24% Variable APR |
Apply Now
on Discover's secure site Rates & Fees |
Amazon Secured Card*
|
Store card
|
2% cash back
2% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership
| N/A | 10.00% non-variable | |
Capital One Spark Classic for Business*
|
Businesses
|
1% - 5% cash back
| N/A | 29.74% (Variable) |
Methodology: How we chose the best credit cards for limited credit histories
To bring you the list of credit cards for limited credit, we use an objective rating and ranking system that compares features across a large set of credit cards (over 200 of them from over 50 issuers). We use calculations to estimate the value of each card for the average cardholder, based on LendingTree and U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics.
For credit building cards in particular, we devote a large part of the score to features that help build credit — we want to help you locate cards that don’t cost a lot to own and provide help so you can upgrade to better card offers.
We calculate how much the average cardholder can save with the card on a yearly basis. If it’s a rewards card, we use U.S. Bureau of Labor data and $300 in monthly spend (the typical starting credit limit for an introductory card) to calculate how much the average cardholder can earn in rewards. We then subtract fees — including annual fees and maintenance fees — from this amount.
We give points for features that help build credit, including reports to all three credit bureaus, regular account reviews for card upgrades and free credit score access. We take away points for features that can be costly to cardholders trying to build credit, such as security deposits, penalty APRs and late payment fees.
Note that our ratings are a starting point for comparing and choosing the best credit card for building credit. However, your needs may be different from the average cardholder’s. You should consider the amount you’re likely to spend in a card’s bonus categories and which benefits you value to choose the best card for you.
Overall winner
Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.No credit history required
- $0 annual fee
- Good cash back rewards earning rate
- $25 statement credit for enrolling in auto-pay
- Free credit score
- Reports to major credit bureaus
- Having a Chase bank account with at least $250 increases your chance of approval
- Higher penalty annual percentage rate (APR)
- High balance transfer fee
- High late payment fee
- Charges foreign transaction fees
The Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card is our top pick due to a simple rewards program and solid earnings rate not always found on cards for limited or no credit history. Unlike many rewards cards in this category, this card doesn’t require a security deposit and offers valuable perks like travel insurance and purchase protection. With all of these pluses, this card will feel and work more like a traditional rewards credit card than many cards designed for building or rebuilding credit.
Another major plus for current Chase customers: Having a Chase bank account with a balance of at least $250 will increase your chances of getting approved for this card.
Keep in mind that although there is no annual fee, the card does charge hefty late fees, so you’ll want to stay on top of using it responsibly.
Highlights
- Cost to own: $0
- Estimated rewards: $79**
- Credit building features:
- Increase your approval odds with $250 in a Chase savings or checking account
- Reports to three major credit bureaus
- You’re automatically evaluated each year to upgrade to the Chase Freedom Unlimited® (see rates & fees)
- Free credit score access
- Earn a $25 statement credit when you sign up for automatic payments within the first three months of opening your account and remain enrolled for at least 90 days.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Increase your approval chances - Having a Chase checking or savings account with a balance of at least $250 will increase your chances of getting approved for Chase Freedom Rise®
- Earn Cash Back - With Chase Freedom Rise®, you can start building credit while earning 1.5% cash back on all purchases. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open and there is no minimum to redeem for cash back.
- Earn a $25 statement credit when you sign up for automatic payments within the first three months of opening your account and remain enrolled for at least 90 days. With automatic payments, just pick a date and dollar amount to make sure your Credit Card gets paid on time.
- Credit Limit Increase - As a Chase cardmember, you'll be evaluated for a credit line increase in as soon as 6 months. Your credit line is the maximum amount of money you can spend on your Freedom Rise® Card
- Free Credit Score - Track your credit score and learn how to build it with Chase Credit Journey.
- No Annual Fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Rise® card.
- Member FDIC
Best for building credit
Petal® 2 Cash Back, No Fees Visa® Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.No fees of any kind
- No credit score required
- No fees: $0 annual fee, no late fee, foreign transaction fee or returned payment fee
- Earn 1% - 10% cash back
- Can raise credit limit in six months
- High variable APR
- No welcome bonus
The Petal® 2 Cash Back, No Fees Visa® Credit Card is one of the easiest credit cards to get with no credit because it uses your bill payment history rather than your credit score. When you apply, the bank creates a CashScore to determine your approval — meaning you can apply even if you don’t have a credit score but do have a good record of paying your regular bills.
The card reports to all three major credit bureaus, so even though you can get approved without a credit score, your use of the Petal® 2 Cash Back, No Fees Visa® Credit Card is reported. With regular, responsible use, you can expect to build credit. Additionally, you may be able to raise your credit limit in six months if you qualify for on-time payments.
You can earn 1% cash back on eligible purchases right away, and 2% to 10% cash back at select merchants. Plus, earn up to 1.25% cash back on most purchases after six months of timely payments and up to 1.5% cash back on most purchases after 12 months of timely payments while building credit. Plus, this card doesn’t charge an annual fee, a late fee, a returned payment fee or a foreign transaction fee.
Highlights
- Cost to own: $0
- Estimated rewards: $54**
- Credit building features:
- Use your bill payment history to create a Cash Score to qualify for the card
- Reports to three major credit bureaus
- Free credit score access
- No late fees or returned payment fees
- No fees whatsoever. No late fee, foreign transaction fee, annual fee, or any-other-kind-of-fee, fee.
- Variable APRs range from 28.99% - 30.99%
- Up to 1.5% cash back on eligible purchases after making 12 on-time monthly payments.
- 1% cash back on eligible purchases right away
- 2% - 10% cash back at select merchants
- $300 - $10,000 credit limits
- No credit score? No problem. If eligible, we'll create your Cash Score instead.
- See if you're pre-approved within minutes without impacting your credit score.
- Build credit alongside hundreds of thousands of Petal card members.
- Petal reports to all 3 major credit bureaus.
- No deposits required
- Card issued by WebBank
Best credit card with no credit check
Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.No credit check required
- Reports to all three major credit bureaus
- No interest*
- $0 annual fee
- No credit check required*
- Different than a traditional credit card
- Limited by the amount of money in your account
- Non-rewards card
The Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is one of the most affordable no credit check credit cards you can find. It doesn’t charge interest* or standard credit card fees like annual fees.
To apply, you need to open a Chime checking account and make a direct deposit of $200 or more to qualify and secure your credit line. Since it’s a secured card, you can only spend as much money as you have in your Chime account, but you can always add funds if you want to increase your credit limit.
Highlights
- Cost to own: $0
- Estimated rewards: $0**
- Credit building features:
- No credit check to apply
- Reports to three major credit bureaus
- Free credit score access
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- No annual fees or interest,* no credit check to apply, and no minimum security deposit required3
- Help increase credit score by an average of 30 points1
- View and track your FICO® Score right in the Chime app. FICO Scores are used by 90% of top lenders
- Use everywhere VISA is accepted on everyday purchases, such as gas and groceries, and have these purchases count towards building credit via on-time payments
- Build credit history with your own money - your direct deposit sets how much you could spend, spend up to that amount, and have your monthly balance automatically paid with your direct deposit.
- Instant disable card in-app and real-time transaction alerts to prevent fraudulent activities, 24/7 support to assist you around the clock.
- Interest and fee-free˜ cash withdrawals at 60K+ ATMs at retailers like Walgreens, CVS, and more.
- Apply for a Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card once you sign up for a Chime Checking Account2. See www.chime.com to learn more.
- Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. The secured Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your card for its issuing bank.
- *No interest: Out of network ATM withdrawal fees may apply. See here for details.1 Based on a representative study conducted by Experian®, members who made their first purchase with Credit Builder between June 2020 and October 2020 observed an average FICO® Score 8 increase of 30 points after approximately 8 months. On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score.2 To apply for Credit Builder, you must have an active Chime® Checking Account.3 Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.ATM Disclosure: Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.
Best credit card for students with no credit
Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: Earn 1% - 8% cash back
- Earn 3% Cash Back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services
- Earn 5% Cash Back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn 8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
- Earn 1% Cash Back on all other purchases
- $0 annual fee
- No security deposit required
- Available to applicants with fair credit
- Earns rewards
- Potentially high APR
- No intro offers on purchases or balance transfers
For students with fair credit who want a great cash back rewards card, the Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is one to consider. It costs nothing to own and offers a sign-up bonus as well as cash back rewards on par with some of the best cash back cards.
It also includes several travel and shopping benefits and protections, which are rare among credit cards for students.
Highlights
- Cost to own: $0
- Estimated rewards: $179**
- Credit building features:
- Reports to all three credit bureaus
- Accepts applicants with fair credit
- Free access to CreditWise
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn unlimited 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, plus 1% on all other purchases
- Early Spend Bonus: Earn $100 when you spend $300 in the first three months
- Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
- Enjoy no annual fee, foreign transaction fees, or hidden fees
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn up to $500 a year by referring friends and family when they're approved for a Capital One credit card
- Earn 8% cash back on entertainment purchases when you book through the Capital One Entertainment portal
- Build your credit with responsible card use
- Whether you're at a 4-year university, community college or other higher education institution, this card might be an option for you
- For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
- Rates & Fees
Rewards credit card for bad credit
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
Requires a minimum $200 refundable security deposit
- No credit score required to apply
- $0 annual fee
- Rewards program
- Automatic account reviews to graduate to an unsecured card
- Few fees
- Requires a security deposit
- Possibly low credit limit
- High APR
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is one of the best credit cards for beginners with credit scores that are low, as it has a $0 annual fee and offers a solid cash back rewards program. You’ll earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
You will need to submit a minimum $200 security deposit to fund your line of credit, but you can increase it if you’d like a larger limit. Discover does regular account reviews starting at seven months to determine if you’re eligible to graduate to an unsecured Discover credit card and have your deposit returned.
Highlights
- Cost to own: $0
- Estimated rewards: $90**
- Credit building features:
- Reports to all three credit bureaus
- Free credit score access
- May be able to graduate to an unsecured card
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- No credit score required to apply. No Annual Fee.
- Your secured credit card requires a refundable security deposit, and your credit line will equal your deposit amount, starting at $200. Bank information must be provided when submitting your deposit.
- 30 points or more—that’s how much you could increase your FICO® Credit Score on average after just six months of responsible use.
- Automatic reviews starting at 7 months to see if we can transition you to an unsecured line of credit and return your deposit.
- Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards.
- Get an alert if we find your Social Security number on any of thousands of Dark Web sites. Activate for free.
- Terms and conditions apply.
- Rates & Fees
Best store credit card for no credit
Amazon Secured Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: Earn 2% cash back
Earn 2% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership
- Cash back on Amazon purchases with Prime membership
- May convert to an unsecured credit card after one year of responsible use
- Low ongoing APR
- Security deposit starting at $100
- Requires eligible Amazon Prime membership to earn rewards
- Limits on where the card can be used
- Maximum credit limit of $1,000
The Amazon Secured Card is easier to qualify for than most store cards because it’s a secured card. You can put down a deposit as low as $100 to qualify. With responsible use, the card may be eligible to convert to an unsecured credit card after a year, getting you a higher rewards rate and a refund of your deposit. It earns a solid rewards rate on Amazon purchases (though a Prime membership is required). It also features an exceptionally low 10.00% non-variable APR.
This card is one of the best beginner credit cards with no credit for those who frequently shop at Amazon.com, but keep in mind that it only allows purchases on Amazon.com or at Amazon physical stores.
Highlights
- Cost to own: $0
- Estimated rewards: $6**
- Credit building features:
- Reports to three major credit bureaus
- Low APR
- Convert into a traditional credit card with no deposit required, after 12 months of responsibly building your credit
- Free credit score access
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- No annual fee
- Minimum $100 security deposit up to $1,000
- Join Prime to get 2% back on Amazon.com
Best business credit card for no credit history
Capital One Spark Classic for Business*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Free employee cards
- $0 annual fee
- Earns cash back
- Available to applicants with fair credit
- Low rewards rate
- High APR
Business owners with fair credit can apply for the Capital One Spark Classic for Business, as it is one of the rare business credit cards that accepts fair credit, is unsecured and has a rewards program.
It even offers free employee cards, letting you earn points on all business expenses, and $0 fraud protection. It does have a high 29.74% (Variable) APR, so you’ll want to use it responsibly to avoid carrying a balance.
After you have built your credit, you may consider applying for another business credit card that offers better rewards and perks.
Highlights
- Cost to own: $0
- Estimated rewards: $39**
- Credit building features:
- $0 fraud liability
- Free employee cards
- Set customized spending limits
- Extended warranty protection
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn unlimited 1% cash back for your business on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions. Plus, earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- No annual fee
- Build and strengthen credit for your business by using this credit card responsibly
- $0 Fraud Liability if your card is lost or stolen
- Free employee cards, which also earn unlimited 1% cash back on all purchases
- Rewards won't expire for the life of the account, and you can redeem your cash back for any amount
- No foreign transaction fees
What does a "limited credit file" mean?
A limited credit file means that you don’t have many entries on your credit report. Sometimes, this is called a “thin credit file” or “no credit.”
This is not necessarily bad — it just means you’re new to using credit or you don’t use it much. Everyone starts out with no credit when they become an adult or, in the case of newcomers to the United States, when they get their Social Security number.
If this describes you, a beginner credit card for no credit is a good choice because its designed for those who haven’t established credit yet.
What to look for in a credit card with no credit
When searching for a beginner credit card for individuals with no credit, you should look for the following features:
It’s important that the credit card reports your credit activity to the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion — on a monthly basis. That way, your responsible card usage (including paying your bill on time and keeping your credit utilization low) will help improve your credit score.
The average credit card interest rate in America is close to 25%, but it can be even higher for people with bad credit. The best way to avoid interest is to pay off your credit card balance in full each month. But if you can’t, having a credit card with a low APR minimizes the amount of interest you’ll pay.
Avoiding fees is key to improving your finances. However, some credit cards for limited history (usually unsecured cards) have expensive fees. If you can, choose a credit card with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.
If you do choose a card with fees, make sure you know how much they are. Some cards charge late fees of $40 or more, which can hit your wallet hard. Just to be on the safe side, set up automatic payments to make sure your bill will be paid on time every time.
→ Learn about 9 common credit card fees
Many credit cards for people with no credit offer free credit-building tools, such as free access to your credit score and information like the number of recent inquiries on your credit report. These tools can help you monitor your progress as you build credit and detect fraud or any other issues.
→ Get free credit-building tips from LendingTree Spring
Many credit cards automatically review your credit history to determine if you’re eligible for an increase in your credit limit. A few of the cards on our list do an automatic review six or seven months after you open the account.
Higher limits allow you to make larger purchases and can lower your credit utilization ratio (the percentage of your total credit limit being used), as long as your spending stays the same. This can improve your credit score.
Earning rewards on your purchases is an added bonus as you build your credit. You may be able to earn cash back from your credit card, points or miles that can help offset the cost of everyday purchases. Rewards programs on starter credit cards really run the gamut, with some offering rewards programs that rival those on standard credit cards and others offering none at all. Most cards in this category focus on cash back rewards.
Credit card perks vary widely, but they can be even more valuable than earning rewards. Look for purchase and extended warranty protection, travel insurance, credit monitoring tools and other benefits that add value to your card.
If you can only qualify for a secured credit card, you might want to look for a card that states you can be upgraded to an unsecured credit card with responsible use. Just like with credit limit reviews, some card issuers do automatic reviews to see if you qualify to convert your card. This is a big plus, because you’ll get your deposit back and likely have a better, more flexible card.
How to get a credit card with no credit
Follow these steps when you’re ready to apply for a credit card designed for those with limited or no credit history.
- Get your credit picture.
Even if you think you have no credit, you may have a credit file — especially if you’ve taken out student loans or ever opened a store or gas credit card in the past. To be sure, request free copies of your credit reports from the three major bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. - Review credit card options.
There are numerous credit cards for people with no credit or limited credit, so pick one that aligns with your spending patterns and goals, using our criteria above to compare features and benefits of different cards. - Gather your personal information.
When you apply for a credit card, the card issuer will request information to process the application. You’ll typically need to give your name, address, phone number, email, Social Security number, annual income and the cost of your monthly rent or mortgage payment. - Submit your application.
Visit the card issuer’s website to complete the application with your personal information. - Wait for the decision.
Many card issuers provide instant approval online when you apply for a credit card. However, you may not receive immediate approval and can check your credit card application status or wait for a decision in the mail. - Get the card.
Once you’re approved, you’ll receive the physical card in the mail. It typically takes seven to 10 days for the credit card to arrive. - Activate the card.
Once you receive the card, you’ll have to activate it online or over the phone before you can use it. This is a good opportunity to create your online account to monitor transactions and make payments. Consider setting up automatic payment of the minimum amount due to avoid late fees and negative marks on your credit report.
“After moving to the United States and obtaining a Social Security number, my husband became an authorized user on my credit cards. Within six months, he had a 798 credit score. After a year, he applied for an unsecured card but was denied for “insufficient credit history.” Even though his credit score is “very good”, the amount of data to back up that number (two credit cards belonging to a spouse) was not enough for an approval.
We opted to get him a secured card, since his approval odds were much better with a secured card, and in the future, the deposit will be returned to us. We use it regularly, taking advantage of its cash back rewards for restaurants and utilities. After a year, he’ll ask about transitioning to the unsecured version of the card to continue his credit-building journey.“
– Charlotte Zhang, credit card writer
What’s the easiest credit card to get with no credit?
The easiest credit cards to get are often secured credit cards or starter credit cards that can help you build your credit history. After you’ve shown that you can use credit responsibly, you can eventually get cards with more attractive rewards, benefits and interest rates.
Here are some of the best types of starter credit cards:
-
Secured credit cards
Secured credit cards require a refundable security deposit, which is typically equal to your line of credit. These cards are a great credit-building option, especially if you can’t qualify for an unsecured credit card.
-
Student credit cards
Many student credit cards offer rewards and other perks that are similar to standard credit cards, though they’re usually easier to get since they’re designed for people starting out on their credit journeys. Just keep in mind that you’ll probably need to show proof that you’re a college student to qualify.
-
Gas credit cards
Some gas credit cards are fairly easy to get, and they can help offset the cost of fuel by offering rewards or discounts on gas purchases.
-
Store cards
Store credit cards are often easy to qualify for since they tend to have lower credit limits, and they offer discounts and perks. However, store credit cards tend to have high APRs, so you should avoid getting a store card if it might tempt you to spend more than you can pay in full each month.
Keep in mind that some of the easy credit cards for no credit may charge annual fees and other fees, such as late fees, and secured credit cards will require a deposit. Make sure you’re clear on the fees and other costs before you apply for a credit card.
How to build credit with no credit history
If you have no credit and want to build your credit from scratch, there are several steps that you can take. Some of these actions impact your credit right away, while others will take more time to pay off.
- Become an authorized user.
As an authorized user, you benefit from the credit history of someone else’s account. Make sure that they have excellent credit, pay on time and don’t carry high balances, as the status of that account can affect your credit as well. - Open a secured credit card.
Getting a secured credit card is fairly easy and straightforward. Your credit limit usually equals your deposit amount. If you close your account or if your card is upgraded to an unsecured card, you’ll receive your security deposit back. - Report your rent history to credit bureaus. Some landlords offer this feature for free or for a monthly fee. There are also subscription services where you can self-report rent payments to the credit bureaus.
- Get credit for utility and other payments.
Services like Experian Boost report recurring payments to credit bureaus. Eligible payments include utilities, streaming services and telephone bills. - Open a credit-builder loan.
Credit-builder loans act like traditional loans, but in reverse. You choose the loan amount and then make monthly payments for a defined period of time. At the end of the term, you’ll receive a lump sum from your payments after deductions for interest charges and fees.
- Winner: Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card
- Best for building credit: Petal® 2 Cash Back, No Fees Visa® Credit Card
- Best credit card with no credit check: Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card
- Best credit card for students with no credit: Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Best rewards credit card for bad credit: Discover it® Secured Credit Card
- Best store credit card for no credit: Amazon Secured Card
- Best business credit card for no credit history: Capital One Spark Classic for Business
Frequently asked questions
You can get a credit card with no job if you can show that you have the ability to pay your credit card bill. This typically means you have to prove you have an income or access to one — this can include your spouse’s salary, unemployment assistance, investments or Social Security payments. If you’re under 21, money regularly deposited into your account also qualifies. Student loans don’t count as income, but grants and scholarships may.
You’ll typically need some source of income to get a credit card, though this doesn’t mean you’ll need to have a job. For example, student credit cards may allow you to count certain student grants as income. Other options include becoming an authorized user on a credit card owned by someone else, like a parent or another trusted relative with good credit who always pays their bill on time.
If you want a no-credit credit card, your options include secured cards, credit cards for bad credit and student credit cards designed for building credit. If you can’t get a credit card for no credit score, you can also ask a trusted friend or family member with good credit to add you as an authorized user on an older credit card account that’s been managed responsibly.
*Out of network ATM withdrawal and over the counter advance fees may apply. See here for details. (https://www.chime.com/chime-credit-builder-visa-credit-card-agreement/)The Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your card for its issuing bank.
To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime® Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
The information related to the Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card, Petal® 2 Cash Back, No Fees Visa® Credit Card, Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card, Amazon Secured Card and Capital One Spark Classic for Business has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.
