8 Best Credit Cards for Beginners To Use and Earn Rewards

Top 8 Best Credit Cards for Beginners 2024

Building a strong credit history is essential for financial stability and future borrowing opportunities. Credit cards can be valuable tools for beginners to establish credit and learn responsible financial habits. In this article, we will explore some of the best credit cards suitable for beginners, offering features and benefits to kickstart their credit journey.

Learn More: How to Get a Free Credit Report: Step-by-step Guide

1. Secured Credit Cards

Secured credit cards are an excellent option for beginners with limited or no credit history. These cards require a refundable security deposit, which becomes your credit limit. Secured cards help demonstrate responsible credit usage and can lead to unsecured credit cards over time. Discover it® Secured and Capital One Secured Mastercard are popular options with low fees and opportunities to upgrade to unsecured cards.

2. Student Credit Cards

Designed specifically for students, student credit cards are a great way for beginners to start building credit. They often come with lower credit limits and provide rewards or cashback tailored to student spending habits. Examples include Discover it® Student Cash Back and Journey® Student Rewards from Capital One, which offer rewards and tools to educate students on responsible credit usage.

Also Read: How to Track a Western Union Transaction: A Step-by-Step Guide

3. Entry-Level Rewards Credit Cards

Entry-level rewards credit cards are suitable for beginners who want to earn rewards while building credit. These cards often have simpler rewards structures and lower annual fees.

The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card and Chase Freedom Unlimited® are examples of cards that offer flat cashback rewards on all purchases, making them beginner-friendly.

4. Retail Store Credit Cards

Retail store credit cards can be easier to obtain for beginners and provide benefits specific to the respective store. They are a good option if you frequently shop at a particular retailer and want to build credit. However, be mindful of potentially higher interest rates and limited acceptance beyond the store. Examples include the Target REDcard and Amazon Store Card.

5. Credit Builder Loans

Although not credit cards, credit builder loans can be useful for beginners aiming to establish credit. These loans work by setting aside a sum of money in a secured account that you pay off in installments. On-time payments are reported to credit bureaus, helping build credit history. Self, for instance, offers credit builder loans that are accessible to beginners with no credit history.

6. Credit Union Credit Cards

Credit unions often offer credit cards with favorable terms for beginners. They tend to have lower interest rates, fewer fees, and may provide educational resources to help members manage credit responsibly. Check with local credit unions or online credit union options to explore credit card offerings specifically designed for beginners.

7. Consider Authorized User Arrangements

If you have a close family member or friend with an established credit card, you may inquire about becoming an authorized user on their account. This arrangement allows you to piggyback on their credit history, potentially benefiting your credit profile. Ensure responsible usage and communication with the primary cardholder to maintain a positive credit-building experience.

8. Building Credit Responsibly

Regardless of the credit card chosen, it is crucial to use it responsibly to build a strong credit history. Make timely payments, keep credit utilization low (below 30% of your credit limit), and avoid carrying high balances. Regularly monitor your credit report and credit score to track your progress and address any errors or discrepancies.