If you have no credit history, you may be wondering: how do I build up credit? After all, you need it to buy a car, rent an apartment, or purchase a car.
It’s a question many have, so you’re definitely not alone. One option you have is a credit card, but one question generally follows this: “Can I get a credit card if I have no credit history?”
Can I Get a Credit Card If I Have No Credit History?
You can absolutely get a credit card if you have no credit history. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it will be easy. Not everyone will be approved. You may run into some challenges getting that approval letter, or you could experience some restrictions with your new credit card.
To get approved for your first credit card, you will often have to prove your income. Pay stubs will usually do. Sometimes though, your income may not be enough, and your credit card could require a co-signer. You could be denied if it’s found you have debt that is not on your credit report or a history of bounced checks.
And if you’re approved, you could also get hit with a very high-interest rate (the best rates are below 14%). You can get into trouble quickly if you don’t pay off the amount each and every month. It’s also likely that the amount you’re approved for will be a low amount – usually around $1,000. As you pay on time, your credit limit will likely go up.
How Do You Find A Credit Card?
Your current bank is a great place to start for your first credit card. They know your financial history. That doesn’t always mean they’re the best option though. You’ll want to look around at credit unions, banks, and online lenders for the best rates for those with little to no credit. Those looking to get a credit card should consider fees, interest rates, credit limits, and other terms and conditions that come along with the account.
There Are Other Options
If you’re finding it difficult to get approved for a credit card with no credit, there are other options available to you. As mentioned before, you could possibly get approved with a co-signer. You could also become an authorized user on another’s card, but you will be responsible for the debt on that card, too.
Another option you have is a credit builder loan. These work as joint loans-savings accounts. Instead of giving you the money right away, the cash is instead put into a savings account. When you pay off the amount, you receive the cash in the account.
A low-limit credit card is one of the best ways to start building your credit. However, in order to build up your credit score, you will want to pay it off entirely each money and not get in too much debt. If you get a high debt-to-income ratio, you could find yourself with a lower credit score than you wanted.
