Your first credit card: a checklist before you apply
What to check before you apply for your first credit card: your credit file, your numbers, the pricing table and how you'll pay.
Find a credit card that fits where your credit is today
Building credit for the first time or rebuilding after a rough patch? Pick your situation and we'll show the card offers from our partners that fit, with the costs side by side.
Updated October 2026
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Cards for building credit for the first timeStarter credit card offers whose issuers say they report to all three major credit bureaus, so on-time payments can build your history.See the cards ›
Cards for rebuilding your creditCredit card offers whose issuers say they're for people rebuilding credit or without perfect credit.See the cards ›
Cards you can check before you applyCredit card offers that let you see if you prequalify, or say there's no impact to your credit score if you're not approved.See the cards ›
Starter cards with cash backStarter credit card offers that earn cash back on everyday spending like gas, groceries and utilities.See the cards ›
Before you apply
Rebuilding credit after a setback: late payments, collections and what to do now
What late payments and collections mean for your credit reports, and the steps you can take now to start rebuilding.
How to read a credit card offer in five minutes
Size up a credit card offer in five minutes by starting with the standard pricing table and leaving the marketing for last.
Is cash back worth it on a starter card?
A worked example of when cash back pays off on a starter card, and when interest or an annual fee costs more than you earn.
What happens after you apply for a credit card
What happens between applying for a credit card and paying your first statement, and what to do if you're declined.
Your first 90 days with a new credit card
A plan for your first 90 days with a new credit card, built around paying on time and keeping your balance small.
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