When can you get your first credit card? The day you turn 18. So what’s the problem? As much as you may want a credit card, most credit card companies aren’t going to be so quick to approve you for one. Solution? Instead of applying for possibly 10s of cards and getting denials which can hurt your already non-existent credit, apply for the cards from companies that have a track record of approving first-timers.

Credit cards for students. Credit card companies are more than willing to give out credit cards to college students. This is a bit of a sad truth, these corporate giants wanting to add debt to individuals who already find themselves in debt. However, if you’re in college, you have a very good chance of getting approved for what they all a ‘student credit card’. The warning here? Get only 1 card. Credit card companies are notorious for trying to load up college students with multiple cards and even more debt. So how to choose which one? Simple, look closely at student credit card offers. Some of them are flat out terrible deals. High interest rates, annual fees, and other surcharges. Just because it says “student credit card” doesn’t mean it’s actually good for students. So what to look for? A great first credit card has a lower APR, no annual fee, and may or may not have ‘student’ in the title.

First check with the bank your checking or savings is with. If you’ve been good with a checking or savings account, many banks will approve you for their credit card, especially local or regional banks. Talk to a bank rep about opening up your first credit card, and get their advice. Many times they will know which cards you have a chance of being approved for. Because you have an existing business relationship with them, they know more about you (even though not much is on your credit file), so it is easier for them to approve you. You could apply online, but in this case, going into a bank branch may allow you to speak to someone who has more authority to approve you for a card, especially in the case of local banks or credit unions.

Next, you could try a department store or gas credit card. My first credit card was with a small box retail store. Retail stores and gas stations typically have easy credit card approval. The downside? 1.) Lower limits, 2.) Higher interest rates, and 3.) You can only use it at that location or store. BUT, many times retail store cards will have good no-interest financing offers, and on top of that, it builds your credit, which ultimately is what we’re looking to do here.

Sometimes limiting you to that store can be a good thing however, to keep you in check with responsible spending. What else could you try?Look for credit cards for those with limited credit. Most websites, including CreditCardsology, will sort cards by the type of credit you need to get them. If you have limited credit history, look for credit cards that are for those with ‘moderate’ credit scores. Remember, don’t bother applying for cards which require ‘excellent’ credit, it’ll just be a blow to your self-esteem when you get denied.