💳 How to Get a Credit Card in the U.S. Without a Credit History (2025 Guide)
Getting your first credit card in the U.S. can be confusing — especially if you have no credit history. But don’t worry, there are smart ways to start building credit from zero. This guide shows exactly how.
🧾 Why Having No Credit Is a Problem
- ❌ Banks can’t judge your trust level
- ❌ Higher chance of denial for cards or loans
- ❌ No score = no credit-based benefits
✅ 3 Easy Ways to Get a Credit Card with No History
1️⃣ Apply for a Secured Credit Card
This is the easiest option. You pay a deposit (like $200), and get a card with that limit. Use it like a normal card. After a few months, your credit score will begin to build.
Best picks: Capital One Secured, Discover it® Secured
2️⃣ Become an Authorized User
Ask a family member to add you to their card. You don’t need to use the card — you’ll still get their good payment history added to your credit file.
3️⃣ Use Alternative Cards with No Credit Check
Some fintechs use your bank account info instead of credit score.
- ✅ Chime Credit Builder
- ✅ Tomo Credit Card
- ✅ Grow Credit (for subscriptions)
📈 What Happens After You Get the Card?
- 💡 Use it monthly for small purchases
- 💡 Pay off full balance on time
- 💡 After 3–6 months, check your credit score (use Credit Karma)
🚫 What NOT to Do
- ❌ Don’t apply for 5 cards at once
- ❌ Don’t spend more than 30% of your limit
- ❌ Don’t forget payment dates — even one late hit drops your score
💬 Still confused? Drop a comment and we'll help guide your first credit journey!