Best First Credit Cards for beginners

Start Building Credit, Earning Rewards, and Taking Control of Your Finances

Getting your first credit card is a major step toward financial independence. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or just starting your credit journey, choosing the right first card can help you build your credit score, earn rewards, and avoid unnecessary fees.

Here are the best beginner-friendly credit cards — all with great perks, low risk, and features designed to help you start strong.

1. BILT Mastercard

Best For: Renters who want to earn rewards

Why It’s Great:

• Earn points on rent with no fees (even if your landlord doesn’t take cards!)

• 3x on dining, 2x on travel, 1x on rent and everything else

• Transfer points 1:1 to travel partners like American Airlines, Hyatt, United

• $0 annual fee

This is a unique card if you're paying rent every month and want to turn that into rewards or travel perks — without paying a dime in fees.

Apply for BILT Masatercard

2. Wells Fargo Autograph Card

Best For: Everyday rewards with no annual fee

Why It’s Great:

• 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months

• 3x points on dining, travel, gas, streaming, and phone plans

• $0 annual fee

• Cell phone protection when you pay your bill with the card

This is a standout option for first-timers who want rewards without complexity or cost. You can redeem points for cash, travel, or statement credits.

Apply for the Autograph Card

3. Quicksilver Secured from Capital One

Best For: Cash back with average/fair credit

Why It’s Great:

• 1.5% cash back on everything

• Accepts applicants with limited credit history

• $0 annual fee

If your credit isn’t perfect or you’re just starting out, Quicksilver Secured offers a solid path to rewards and growth.

Apply for Quicksilver Secured

4. Discover it Student Cash Back

Best For: Students

Why It’s Great:

• 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter (gas, grocery stores, Amazon, etc.)

• $20 Good Grades Reward for GPA 3.0+

• Unlimited Cashback Match in your first year

• No annual fee

A perfect starter card for college students with no prior credit history. Plus, you’ll double your cash back automatically in year one.

5. Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card (Secured Option)

Best For: No credit or rebuilding

Why It’s Great:

• No credit check to apply

• No interest, no annual fee

• Automatically reports to all 3 credit bureaus

• Requires a Chime account

Ideal for people with no credit at all who want to build from the ground up in a risk-free way.

Final Tips for Picking Your First Card:

• Start with no or low annual fees

• Pay your bill in full every month — this avoids interest and boosts your score

• Look for rewards in categories you actually spend in

• Don’t apply for too many cards at once

Ready to Start Your Credit Journey?

Getting your first credit card is a smart move — when done right. Use the links above to apply for a beginner-friendly card that fits your lifestyle and helps you start building your future.