Build Credit
How to Build a US Credit Score from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide
New to credit? Learn practical ways to start building a U.S. credit history, including secured cards, authorized-user accounts and responsible payment habits.
7 min read
Build Credit
Whether you're a recent graduate, a newcomer to the US, or recovering from past financial difficulties, this section walks you through every strategy for building a strong credit profile — from secured cards to credit-builder loans to becoming an authorized user.
Build Credit Guides
4 guides- Build Credit
Secured vs. Unsecured Credit Cards: Which Do You Need?
Secured cards generally require a security deposit, while unsecured cards generally do not. Eligibility, fees, credit limits and reporting practices vary by issuer. Here's how the two types differ and what to compare before applying.
2 min read - Build Credit
My Credit Card Application Was Denied: What to Do Next
A denial letter does not have to be the end of the road. Learn exactly why applications get rejected, how to read your adverse action notice, and the concrete steps to take next.
12 min read - Build Credit
How to Get Your First Credit Card With No Credit History
Getting your first credit card without an established credit history can be challenging, but there are options. Learn what to compare before applying and how to start building credit responsibly.
11 min read
Top Build Credit Cards
Editorial review cards updated regularly.
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- No-Fee Cash Back Card
Discover
Discover it Cash Back
Best for: First-time cardholders and budget-conscious users who want cash back with no annual cost and are willing to activate quarterly categories.
- Annual FeeNo annual fee
- Rewards5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (when activated, up to quarterly maximum); 1% on all other purchases
- Welcome BonusCashback Match — Discover matches all cash back earned in first year (see issuer terms)
Apply if you:
- First-time cardholders
- Students and young adults
Skip if you:
- International travelers (lower acceptance outside US)
The first-year cashback match is a compelling new-cardholder promotion, effectively doubling rewards in the first year.
Terms apply. Offers subject to change.
- Secured Credit-Building Card
Discover
Discover it Secured
Best for: Anyone building credit from scratch who wants a secured card that also earns rewards — not just a reporting vehicle.
- Annual FeeNo annual fee
- Rewards5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (when activated, up to quarterly maximum); 1% on all other purchases
- Welcome BonusFirst-year cashback match (see issuer terms)
- Security Deposit$49, $99, or $200, depending on creditworthiness (refundable; issuer terms apply)
Apply if you:
- Those with no credit history
- Recent immigrants establishing U.S. credit
Skip if you:
- Anyone who cannot manage a security deposit
A strong secured card option. Discover's upgrade review process and first-year cashback match make this a compelling starting point for new credit builders.
Terms apply. Offers subject to change.
Capital One
Capital One Platinum Secured
Best for: Credit builders who prefer the Capital One ecosystem and want a no-fee secured card with deposit tiers based on creditworthiness.
- Annual FeeNo annual fee
- RewardsNo rewards program
- Welcome BonusNone
- Security Deposit$49, $99, or $200, depending on creditworthiness (refundable; issuer terms apply)
Apply if you:
- Those who prefer Capital One
- Credit builders seeking a no-fee secured card with deposit tiers based on creditworthiness
Skip if you:
- Anyone seeking rewards from their secured card
A no-fee secured card with deposit tiers based on creditworthiness and periodic reviews for possible upgrade to an unsecured card. The card does not earn rewards.
Terms apply. Offers subject to change.
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Build Credit FAQ
Common questions about credit cards and financial products.
The time required to build a credit history and reach a particular score varies widely. A FICO Score generally requires at least six months of qualifying credit history, but the score itself depends on the information in the credit file.
There is no single best card for everyone. Compare secured or beginner-oriented cards based on fees, deposit requirements, credit-bureau reporting, APR, eligibility and graduation policies.
Yes. Credit-builder loans (offered by many credit unions and online lenders) are designed for this purpose. Certain loans and rent-reporting services may add qualifying payment information to a credit file, depending on the product and reporting arrangement.
An authorized user is someone added to another person's credit card account. Being added as an authorized user may help establish or add credit history if the card issuer reports authorized-user activity to the credit bureaus and the account is considered by the scoring model. Before relying on this strategy, confirm whether the issuer reports authorized-user activity to the credit bureaus.
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