How Can I Get Credit Cards with No Deposit?

If you have an income and a good credit score, you can apply and potentially be approved for most credit cards with no deposit, including cash back, travel and student credit cards. 

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.

1. Authorized users on someone else’s credit card don’t require a deposit

Becoming an authorized user on a credit card account allows you to use someone else’s credit card 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 use the cardand make purchases against the 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. For example, when a primary account holder adds a friend or family member as an Authorized User to their Discover® card, they can help them build a credit history, with responsible use.¹ On the other hand, if the primary account holder misses credit card payments or keeps a high credit balance — both negative impacts to credit — you risk damaging your credit score by becoming an authorized user on the account.

2. 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 is required to apply for Discover Student credit cards.³ Student credit cards also offer cash back rewards and can help you build a credit history, among several other benefits.

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.

3. 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. The plus side is that you can still earn rewards and build your credit history² at the same time. You may want to learn more about how a secured card works before you dismiss it as a viable alternative.

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