How can I get credit without history?
Rachel Davis
Updated on January 27, 2026
3 things you should do if you have no credit history
- Become an authorized user. One of the simplest ways to build credit is by becoming an authorized user on a family member or friend’s credit card.
- Apply for a secured credit card.
- Get credit for paying monthly utility and cell phone bills on time.
What if I have no credit history?
“Having no credit score is the equivalent of having a poor credit score because you can’t prove to the lender you have a history of repaying your debts,” Harrison adds. “That means paying higher interest at best, and at worst, being declined altogether.”
Is it bad to have no credit history?
Even if you have a reliable income but you have no credit history, you will be seen as a something of a risk because you don’t yet have a track record. And a lack of credit can result in: Trouble finding a place to live. Having to pay higher utility deposits.
What can I do with a credit card with no history?
Typically, lenders will try to entice your business by offering extra rewards points or cashback benefits for those that spend past a threshold point. Another great reason to apply for small business credit cards with no credit history is to take advantage of the limited-time 0% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) offers.
Can you get a credit card if you have no credit?
Yes you can get a credit card even if you have no credit history. But lacking credit history generally limits your options, so the card you get will likely cost more and have a lower credit limit. Still, if you use it wisely that card can help you establish and grow your credit history so that, ultimately, you can qualify for a better card.
What’s the best way to establish a credit history?
If you want to establish a credit history, first check your credit report to make sure you don’t already have one. To build your credit history, consider applying for a secured credit card or a store credit card. Debit cards won’t help.
How to build your credit with no credit?
How to build your credit with no or little credit 1 Pay your bills on time. You want to establish a responsible payment history, the biggest factor among the major credit scoring models. 2 Get a credit card that you can use responsibly. 3 Use your credit card. 4 Pay your card in full. 5 Don’t be tempted to take out more credit. …
