How Can I Get Credit Cards With No Deposit?

If you have an income and a good credit score, you may be approved for most credit cards with no deposit, including cash back, travel, and student credit cards. But what if your credit isn’t great? Are there other ways to get credit cards with no deposit?

How to access credit cards with no security deposit

If you have limited credit history or no credit history, there are several ways to get a credit card with no deposit.

Authorized users on someone else’s credit card don’t need to make a deposit

Becoming an authorized user on a credit card account allows you to use someone else’s credit card account as if it were your own, even if you can’t qualify for a card on your own. As an authorized user, you don’t have all the account capabilities of a primary account holder, but you can get a card and make purchases against the account’s credit limit.

One of the main benefits of being an authorized user is that if the primary account holder is responsible with their account, the authorized user may reap some of the benefits on their own credit. Many—but not all—issuers report authorized user activity to the credit bureaus, which means you can essentially piggyback off a primary account holder’s good management of the account. So, a friend or family member can help you build a credit history with responsible card use by adding you as an authorized user to their credit card account. On the other hand, if the primary account holder misses credit card payments or keeps a high credit balance—both which may negatively impact credit—you risk damaging your credit score by becoming an authorized user on the account.

Did you know student credit cards with no down payment are accessible?

Some student cards don’t require a security deposit, so this can be a great option to start your credit journey. If you’re a student, no credit score required to apply for Discover Student credit cards.¹ Some student credit cards also may offer cash back rewards and can help you build a credit history, among several other benefits.

See if you’re pre-approved

If you’re interested in applying for a student card, you’ll want to make sure you have the right information to apply and get the right card for you.

Secured credit cards may be an alternative to no-deposit credit cards

If you can’t find a no-deposit credit card that works for you, an alternative could be to start with a secured card. A secured credit card can help you build your credit with responsible use,² but will require a security deposit that is used as collateral. The deposit could be as low as a couple hundred dollars, and you may be able to qualify to get the deposit back. Plus, you can still earn rewards and build your credit history at the same time. You may want to learn more about how a secured card works before deciding if it’s the right option for you.

Improve your credit score so you don’t need to worry about applying for credit cards with no deposit down

Educating yourself on what type of behavior leads to a higher credit score should come before completing any applications. Review your credit report and see if there are steps you can take now that may help your credit score, which may make it easier to apply for credit cards that don’t require a security deposit, according to Experian.

With a bit of preparation and a commitment to good credit habits, you can find a credit card with no deposit that can help you create a brighter financial future.