I have no credit but want to build some I'm a student but I go to a tech school so I cannot get a student loan. What's the best way to build my credit?

Answered on September 13, 2010
Updated on September 13, 2010
The content is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change.
Amy Miller Amy Miller
Credit cards for college students can help you build credit. Though keep in mind that simply applying for a credit card does not help you establish credit. You need to learn how to manage your credit card responsibly to avoid debt and bad credit history in the future, so that they do not affect the things you want to do. When applying for an apartment, car loan or a job, you want to have a positive credit history. And even more so you want to be free from debt. So, before you apply for a credit card, make sure you choose the right one for your individual needs and current credit rating (visit student credit cards section of our site to compare best offers). Remember that you are responsible for paying your card bills and all records stay on your credit report for several years. Make all your payments on time, pay the balance off if you can to keep charges to a minimum, use credit card only if you are sure you can repay. Read terms and conditions carefully, find out what your interest rate will be after the intro period is over, if you make a late payment, or miss one. Pay attention to the cash advance interest rate. Avoid making impulse purchases on your credit card, rather save it for emergencies. Consider also using a prepaid debit card so that you do not spend more than you have.
All rates and fees, and other terms and conditions of the products mentioned in this article/post are actual as of the last update date but are subject to change. See the current products' Terms & Conditions on the issuing banks' websites.

User Comments about This Question

BROWSE MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT Student Credit Cards:

If you're getting your first-ever credit card, you'll want to look for a card that's designed for folks with limited credit, or no credit. It can take a little while to build a credit rating, but the good news is that it isn't hard to do. Getting a credit card is the first step. If you can find one that also earns rewards, even better. And don't worry – there are plenty of such cards out there. Look for a card with "student rewards" in the name. A store card can be another good choice. You can use them for shopping through a website. Retail store cards may have limited use but will help you...
If you have a stable income that exceeds your expenses and have a valid social security number, you can qualify for a student credit card. Student cards are created to help students start building their credit history. They often come without application and annual fees. As for the monthly fees, they will depend on your card balance and the interest rates. You can avoid interest payments, though, by paying off your credit card balance in full each month. All your credit card payment activity will be reported to the major credit bureaus, which is important when you build credit. Try to make at...
No, you won't need a co-signer to apply for a student credit card or Amex Everyday. In fact, there are not many issuers that would allow co-signers. That is actually great as cosigning is a complicated thing. Having your own credit card from the beginning is a great way to learn finances, responsibility, and to start building credit. You may qualify for a student credit card as long as you are at least 18 years old, have SSN, U.S. citizen/resident, and have verifiable income. To qualify for the Amex Every Day card, you should have at least good credit history. If you already have some...

Have A Credit Card Question? Ask Our Experts

Help us personalize your results
Your Credit History:
Do you have checking account?
How long have you had a loan or credit card?
Have you ever been declared bankrupt or defaulted on a loan?
Have you been late on any credit card or loan in the last year?
* - marked fields are required to be filled
By submitting your question, you agree to the following:*
Here at BestCreditOffers.com we will answer all questions to the best of our knowledge and understanding, but we are not legally accredited professionals. We assume no liability for actions resulting from our advice and cannot guarantee the accuracy of information in all cases. Please seek appropriate professional or legal advice when needed.
ASK YOUR QUESTION
ASK YOUR QUESTION

LOOKING FOR A CARD?

There is a credit card for any credit and for any purpose. Whether you want to start building your credit from scratch or earn rewards on purchases, save on gas or travel for free, you can find a good credit card offer for that.