The top starter credit cards are easy to get, have no annual fee and report your payments to the three major credit bureaus. The right card for you depends on your situation. Options include secured credit cards — which require refundable upfront deposits — student credit cards and alternative credit cards from smaller issuers that evaluate applicants' creditworthiness on factors other than FICO credit scores. Many starter cards even offer rewards. Explore the options below and apply for the one that's right for you.
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Discover it® Student Chrome: Excellent for a Starter Card, Especially If You Spend a Lot on Gas and at Restaurants
Discover it® Student Cash Back: Excellent for a Student Learning to Handle Credit
Chase Freedom Unlimited®: Excellent for All-around Cash Back
Credit card | NerdWallet rating | Annual fee | Rewards rate | Intro offer | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Excellent for All-around Cash Back | $0 | 1.5%-5% | $200 | Apply Now on Chase's website on Chase's website | |
![]() Discover it® Student Cash Back Apply Now on Discover's website, on Discover's website, or call 800-347-0264 | Excellent for a Student Learning to Handle Credit | $0 | 1%-5% | Cashback Match™ | Apply Now on Discover's website, on Discover's website, or call 800-347-0264 |
![]() Discover it® Student Chrome Apply Now on Discover's website, on Discover's website, or call 800-347-0264 | Excellent for a Starter Card, Especially If You Spend a Lot on Gas and at Restaurants | $0 | 1%-2% | Cashback Match™ | Apply Now on Discover's website, on Discover's website, or call 800-347-0264 |