Getting a decent Credit Card is near impossible at my age..

Staind204

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Ok I know the first 10 or so posts are probably people saying "getting a credit card is just trouble" or something like that but I want to build my credit. The only card I have is a 1st Financial Bank Student one for $250 (which is terrible). I can't even get one from my own bank and I have over $9,000 in my account there, and I have a decent job (part time, $1000 a month). They said they'd only give me one if I took out a loan and payed it back (they are just trying to rip me off so I have to basically PAY for a credit card). The interest rate and such doesnt bother me, but I do want a free card (no annual fee, no activation fee,etc), I am just trying to build my credit... I'd even be happy with another $250 card. Anyone know of a free credit card that someone like me with no credit (I don't have bad credit I just dont have a credit score at all). If it helps I am a student in college.
 
Hehe ... I would just get one with an annual fee to build your credit up quickly. Buy everything with your credit card and IMMEDIATELY pay it off when you get home or something :p
 
its all about building your credit man. i've had a credit card since i was 17, albeit with my mom as a co-signer then. but after only 3 years of building my credit, i was able to get a card with a $2500 limit on it, albeit at a jewelry store and i've only chareged my fiances engagement ring to.

so what am i saying, as stupid as it sounds, if your parents have good credit have them co-sign with you, or just get the loan and pay it back quickly.
 
[quote name='bignick']There is more to it than a credit card. Paying utilities helps a lot too. Even car insurance.[/quote]

I think from his first post he might not be paying those yet ... well maybe the car insurance ;)
 
Use your current card for daily purchases. Pay it in full every month. That will help some. Try the AMEX Blue card, its free, gets cash back on purchases. Get the amazon card, free $30 for signing up, no fee. Just apply for cards that have no annual fee. Maybe it would be safe to have at most 2-3 cards until you graduate college/get a real job. Then you can cancel or upgrade your limits. Personally, I have the AMEX Blue Cash, VISA Amazon, VISA from a credit union (had for 8 years), and a work charge card. I know my score is decent since I pay in full each month, and I never go over (or near) my limits. Just dont miss any payments once you get credit cards, and make sure you pay more than the minimum or you are just throwing away money.
 
Well I am 18 and still live at home so I don't have any bills (except I do pay for my own college). I am just afraid to apply to a bunch of cards because doesnt it lower your credit even more if declined?
 
Try applying with the major credit card companies, they love students...also they will max out the credit lines to students with majors in either science or business
 
Did you try Capital One Visa? I was able to get one of those with no problem, had it through college and still am using it. $4000 limit (highest), started at $500. Of course they raise the limit to encourage you to spend more...
 
[quote name='craven_fiend']its all about building your credit man. i've had a credit card since i was 17, albeit with my mom as a co-signer then. but after only 3 years of building my credit, i was able to get a card with a $2500 limit on it, albeit at a jewelry store and i've only chareged my fiances engagement ring to.

so what am i saying, as stupid as it sounds, if your parents have good credit have them co-sign with you, or just get the loan and pay it back quickly.[/quote]
This is the best (and probably only useful) suggestion so far. Do this and then make sure you pay off your minimum each months (or better yet, never carry a balance). Your credit rating will improve much more quickly this way.
 
Forget credit cards...you can build credit by paying your rent on time, paying utilities on time, and paying the rest of your bills on time.

You can acquire good credit by showing a clear record that you paid your rent/house payment on time each month. In no way, is credit built primarily on going into debt.
 
Try getting department store cards first. A good one to try is Sears. After a while they will upgrade you to a Sears mastercard. You can also try target, but I would go with Sears first they are a little easier to get approved.
 
I have a Citi student card with 500 buck limit, didnt cost me anything. I would look into getting one from them.
 
Dont apply for to many cards, each application (regardless of approval) shows up on your credit report (BTW thats not a good thing).

My advice is to stick with the one you have, and a few months from now apply for one other card.

You should also change banks. My first card was from Wachovia, $2000 limit, automatic overdtaft protection and 12.99 APR. The best part is I didnt even have to ask for the card, it was offered on the spot.
 
[quote name='big_squirtle']Try getting department store cards first. A good one to try is Sears. After a while they will upgrade you to a Sears mastercard. You can also try target, but I would go with Sears first they are a little easier to get approved.[/quote]


Well I work there and needless to say I was declined for both cards there too (Sears card and Gold Mastercard) for the reason of : Insufficent Credit History.
 
[quote name='Staind204'][quote name='big_squirtle']Try getting department store cards first. A good one to try is Sears. After a while they will upgrade you to a Sears mastercard. You can also try target, but I would go with Sears first they are a little easier to get approved.[/quote]


Well I work there and needless to say I was declined for both cards there too (Sears card and Gold Mastercard) for the reason of : Insufficent Credit History.[/quote]

Wow, that sucks. I got mine when I was 18. I also had a steady job for more than 2 years. So that might of helped.
 
Department store cards and gas company cards are good ways to start establishing credit. Having a parent co-sign for a major card is also good. When I was in college I had a Penney's card and Mobil and Amoco cards and was never late with a payment - that really helped my credit score. Paying your card off is not as important as never making late payments. Some companies like you more if you carry a balance from month to month since they are making money on the interest you pay.
 
Maybe try Capital One. You may have already, but they seem to give cards to everyone. At least that's how it seems. I really don't understand the problem. You have alot of positive things going for you. I had no problems getting a card when I was first eligible and I don't recall having more than you in my account or a higher paying job. :?
 
Anyone know if this American Express Blue for Students is an easy one to get? I am thinking of applying for it.... does it help any that I have $9,000 in the bank or does that even matter? Also is it likely I won't be able to get another one since I do already have the 1st Financial Bank one? (even though its only $250)?
 
[quote name='craven_fiend']its all about building your credit man. i've had a credit card since i was 17, albeit with my mom as a co-signer then. but after only 3 years of building my credit, i was able to get a card with a $2500 limit on it, albeit at a jewelry store and i've only chareged my fiances engagement ring to.

so what am i saying, as stupid as it sounds, if your parents have good credit have them co-sign with you, or just get the loan and pay it back quickly.[/quote]

When I got my debit card at Bank One, my mom had the guy who was helping us sign me up for a credit card for emergencies and have her perfect credit behind it since I didn't have anything. They turned me down anyway, but I think the dumbass didn't have use her credit to back the application. I didn't really care, but I can't think of why they'd decline me with her credit behind it.
 
Credit cards are marketed more heavily to college students than any other segment of the population. There is no way you can't get a card. However, and here is the part you were expecting, don't get a credit card. If you really want one, fine, no one will hold you down and try to stop you, but ask yourself why you need/want one first. You have $9,000 in the bank, and, presumably, no debt. This puts you in a better position financially than most Americans. Why the hell would you want to go be like everyone else? Consider yourself lucky to have what you have. If you need a way to make online purchases, or don't like carrying a lot of cash, get a debit card (you probably already have one).
 
OP, if you've got so much money in your account, you should look into a secured credit card. A lot of banks have cards where your credit limit is whatever you are willing to pledge to them in cash - that way there's no actual risk for them. These are a really excellent way to build up credit - you use one of these for a year or two and you'll be able to get a "real" credit card, because you'll have proven you're responsible. Also, as mentioned Sears cards and Texaco / BP cards are great first steps towards building credit. Be realistic, too, about the kind of credit card account you want...I have worked in the same job for a few years, make good money, "own" my own house, am married, and have high credit scores, and I had a hard time finding a credit card of the sort you mention wanting, with no annual fee and a low APR. Unfortunately they're not giving that stuff away. And I WORK at a freakin' bank.
 
No I had said the APR doesnt bug me (it can be 50% for all I care), I pay my bill in full every single month. I am just looking for a free credit card (no annual fee or startup fee).
 
Have your parents co-sign on the card.

Also- don't worry all that much if you can't pay the total amount at the time. People who can't pay the total off and pay the intrest payments gain credit more quickly- and pay a "little more money"- that and they help the economy- and that is what George W. Bush wants you to do.

Me- I don't help the economy, I pay my credit card off. I guess George W. Bush doesn't like me.
 
[quote name='Staind204']No I had said the APR doesnt bug me (it can be 50% for all I care), I pay my bill in full every single month. I am just looking for a free credit card (no annual fee or startup fee).[/quote]

OK - and I hate to say it, but I would wager that you will have a hard time finding that with little to no credit history. That's a tool that lenders use to keep people around whom they make lots of money on. If you're not carrying a balance from month to month, it'll be costing them to have you as a customer - they will want to get paid somehow. No credit history, not a "big fish", they are not going to be forthcoming with the perks, certainly not at first.
 
[quote name='blueweltall']You get credits for paying car insurance?[/quote]
If you have a lapse in your insurance, it reflects negatively on your credit. At the same time, if you're shopping for insurance, more and more companies are factoring in credit history in determining rating groups.

:spam: Did you know State Farm now offers financial services? we have some of the best rates nationwide on CD's and competitive rates in other areas as well, visit http://www.statefarmbank.com to view some of the other products offered. Oh, and we have credit cards too. end :spam:
 
[quote name='gaelan']Forget credit cards...you can build credit by paying your rent on time, paying utilities on time, and paying the rest of your bills on time.

You can acquire good credit by showing a clear record that you paid your rent/house payment on time each month. In no way, is credit built primarily on going into debt.[/quote]
 
It's largely a matter of building a good reputation with the reporting agencies. Getting you name attached to a major purchase that is paid off on schedule with no problems is a big, big boost to your rating.

For instance, after I paid off my first car purchase my credit rating went through the roof. Suddenly I was Mr. Reliable and worthy of any card I cared to obtain. The thing is, this will work for a fairly small loan. Say you buy a good dealer certified used car by paying 80% of it in cash and the rest financed. (You may need to have a parent co-sign to get the ball rolling.) This should be an amount small enough that you can comfortably pay off the loan in 24 months or less. One year would be ideal. When you make that final payment you'll suddenly be a real grown-up in their eyes.

Another approach is a financed purchase of a relatively low cost item. It doesn't take much to get approved for interest free financing at Best Buy or Circuit City. If your folks are looking at buying a new refrigerator or other major appliance soon, see if you can convince them to let it be done under your name. It doesn't matter whose name is one the checks as long they're sent in promptly and your name is the one on the account.

That sort of purchase is another thing that sent my credit rating shooting up.
 
I'm 19 and got approved/used the following:
-First National Student Visa, $1000 Credit Line (current)
-US Bank Visa, $1000 (cancelled it since First National has better rates)
-AT&T Universal Mastercard, $500 Limit (Emergency card)
-Chevron Gas Card, $300 Limit Mileage back rewards

I think its pretty easy to get a credit card as long as you have a job. Some college credit cards don't even require to to have a job, they just ask for proof that you're enrolled.
 
[quote name='Staind204']Ok I know the first 10 or so posts are probably people saying "getting a credit card is just trouble" or something like that but I want to build my credit. The only card I have is a 1st Financial Bank Student one for $250 (which is terrible). I can't even get one from my own bank and I have over $9,000 in my account there, and I have a decent job (part time, $1000 a month). They said they'd only give me one if I took out a loan and payed it back (they are just trying to rip me off so I have to basically PAY for a credit card). The interest rate and such doesnt bother me, but I do want a free card (no annual fee, no activation fee,etc), I am just trying to build my credit... I'd even be happy with another $250 card. Anyone know of a free credit card that someone like me with no credit (I don't have bad credit I just dont have a credit score at all). If it helps I am a student in college.[/quote]

Why are you so concerned about "building" your credit? So you can borrow money and acquire debt?
 
I should also mention that none of those cards had any sort of fee to them, Staind if you want links to those applications, I can find them for you. I directed a couple friends to the same ones I have when they needed help finding a credit card.
 
[quote name='Staind204']Ok I know the first 10 or so posts are probably people saying "getting a credit card is just trouble" or something like that but I want to build my credit. The only card I have is a 1st Financial Bank Student one for $250 (which is terrible). I can't even get one from my own bank and I have over $9,000 in my account there, and I have a decent job (part time, $1000 a month). They said they'd only give me one if I took out a loan and payed it back (they are just trying to rip me off so I have to basically PAY for a credit card). The interest rate and such doesnt bother me, but I do want a free card (no annual fee, no activation fee,etc), I am just trying to build my credit... I'd even be happy with another $250 card. Anyone know of a free credit card that someone like me with no credit (I don't have bad credit I just dont have a credit score at all). If it helps I am a student in college.[/quote]

When I was in college, in the beginning of every semester, there were a lot of booth for students to sign up for credit cards by credit card company. Maybe have an eye out for them and sign up for another one with a different bank. If you want to, you could call your current credit card company to raise your limit.
 
Like someone else said, have your parents co-sign.
I got a platinum card when I was 18 because my dad co-signed.
No hassle. No trouble.
 
Man I have the exact same problem as you staind I am 18 and go to Michigan State University. I can't get a credit card for the life of me. I only have one MBNA MSU credit card that I got at a booth set up on campus like racerman8 said. The card only has a $500 limit on it too. I have applied for like 5 other cards and got rejected by them all. I have $6000 in my bank account but they don't seem to care. Here is a link to some student credit cards you can apply for I applied for a lot of these but got rejected by them all. Let me know if you have any better luck or if you find a credit card I might be able to get too

http://0-percent-credit-card-rate-online.com/student-credit-card.html
 
If you're in college, have money in your bank account, and cant' get a no-annual fee card, you aren't trying.

I went to school at Texas A&M, and had 2 no-annual fee cards for my last 3 years of school. This is in addition to the hundreds I turned down. And trust me, I was nowhere near the financial position you're in. No job and lots of student loans.

Try MBNA - they love students.
 
[quote name='gaelan'][quote name='Staind204']Ok I know the first 10 or so posts are probably people saying "getting a credit card is just trouble" or something like that but I want to build my credit. The only card I have is a 1st Financial Bank Student one for $250 (which is terrible). I can't even get one from my own bank and I have over $9,000 in my account there, and I have a decent job (part time, $1000 a month). They said they'd only give me one if I took out a loan and payed it back (they are just trying to rip me off so I have to basically PAY for a credit card). The interest rate and such doesnt bother me, but I do want a free card (no annual fee, no activation fee,etc), I am just trying to build my credit... I'd even be happy with another $250 card. Anyone know of a free credit card that someone like me with no credit (I don't have bad credit I just dont have a credit score at all). If it helps I am a student in college.[/quote]

Why are you so concerned about "building" your credit? So you can borrow money and acquire debt?[/quote]

There are some things in life, such as getting a mortgage or buying a car, that can become extremely difficult without a positive credit rating.
 
[quote name='CouRageouS']I should also mention that none of those cards had any sort of fee to them, Staind if you want links to those applications, I can find them for you. I directed a couple friends to the same ones I have when they needed help finding a credit card.[/quote]

Sure, I'd appreciate that.. thanks.
 
Well I got mine at 16 for some sweet 80 spoke rims with gold plated spinners and nipples... I dont fit in to this stereotypical type persona though.

True Story.

I had a cosigner (my grandfather he was awesome) and have well over a 700 point credit rating its almost been 10 years.


The thing to boost you would be a cosigner... Or even say a cell phone to build credit. Try an electric bill etc. If you live at home have your mom change the phone or electric bill to your name and make sure she pays it. This will show credit for you.

Otherwise get a small personal loan of credit from a bank and dont spend the money use it to pay the loan back. Maybe even pay the loan down substantially and then sit on the remaining balance and make min payments (to lessen interest)

Try credit unions.
 
once i had my 1st $250 CC, i was able to go to department stores and get some of their cards, kaufmanns and JC Pennys were always good.
 
How exactly does a credit card work? I've never really known. I've basically thought this:

You get a credit card. There's a limit on the card. You can spend that money whether you have that much or not. However, at the end of the month, you're billed for how much of that you charged to the card. There's a minimum amount you can pay. Should you choose to pay it all, you're fine. However, if you don't pay it off entirely each month, you're charged interest for that...Is that right? And then is an annual fee just something they charge you for having the "privilege" or having the card in the first place?

We had a lady from a local bank come in and talk to us, and she suggested to get a credit card and manage it, provided you're responsible, as it helps you "build" credit, so I'm kind of interested in getting one.
 
[quote name='WinnieThePujols']How exactly does a credit card work? I've never really known. I've basically thought this:

You get a credit card. There's a limit on the card. You can spend that money whether you have that much or not. However, at the end of the month, you're billed for how much of that you charged to the card. There's a minimum amount you can pay. Should you choose to pay it all, you're fine. However, if you don't pay it off entirely each month, you're charged interest for that...Is that right? And then is an annual fee just something they charge you for having the "privilege" or having the card in the first place?

We had a lady from a local bank come in and talk to us, and she suggested to get a credit card and manage it, provided you're responsible, as it helps you "build" credit, so I'm kind of interested in getting one.[/quote]

You basically right. Most cards don't have an annual fee.

As for OP, I don't know what to tell you. seems like you're shit of of luck.
 
Yeah get your 'rents to co-sign with you. If you can't do that you might have trouble getting a decent card unfortunately.

CCs really don't build much in the way of a credit rating for you, though. (At least paying them off completely each month didn't seem to do much for mine.) Taking out and paying off a loan would build it up a hell of a lot more, but I really don't think it's worth the hassle or cost to do that.
 
I had a similar problem with getting a credit card... I had no credit, and I went to a community college, therefore eliminating student cards. I applied to a few card companies online, such as AMEX (blue and blue student) and citibank. I later learned that AMEX is really only available once you have established credit, so it might be a while for that one.

However, since I had no credit at all, I didn't care if my FICO score was temporarily lowered (it didn't exist) due to a couple credit inquiries from my applications. The key here is persistance. I applied to citibank platinum select about 3 times, and on the third time, they accepted me! $1k limit, with 14.7% APR.

They key thing here is, to establish credit quickest, you HAVE to charge something to your card, and carry it over a few months, maybe 6. If you have a 0% intro APR card like I have, that's not a problem. After that, just pay it off as soon as you can.

I haven't even tried applying for other cards yet, but I think I will try AMEX Blue again (probably just wishful thinking). Although, that is what I thought when I applied to citi the 3rd time.

Good luck!
 
Well I did just apply for the Amex Blue for Students but I will more than likely be declined if like you said its for only if you have established credit. :whistle2:(. So even just by having this 1FB $250 card I pay it off in full everytime, so it probably isnt helping my credit either... + just by applying for that Blue Student Card it probably has lowered my credit even more :whistle2:/
 
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