The Best Credit Cards to Build Credit in 2024
In 2024, there are plenty of great credit card options to help you on your journey of building credit, even if you’re starting out.
Let’s dive into some of the best credit cards to build credit!
Whether you’re looking to build your credit from scratch or improve an existing score, we’ve got some solid recommendations for you.
1. Discover It® Secured Credit Card
Let’s kick things off with the Discover It® Secured Credit Card. This card is a favorite for many people trying to build their credit because it’s user-friendly and comes with some sweet perks.
Cashback Rewards
You earn 2% cashback on the first $1,000 you spend at restaurants and gas stations each quarter.
Plus, you’ll get 1% on all other purchases. That’s right—building credit can come with rewards!
Potential for Upgrade
After eight months of using it responsibly, Discover will automatically check to see if you can upgrade to an unsecured card, which means they might return your deposit.
No Annual Fee
Yes, you read that right—no annual fee! So, you can focus on building your credit without extra costs.
2. Capital One Platinum Credit Card
Next up is the Capital One Platinum Credit Card, which is perfect if you have a fair credit score.
It’s straightforward and doesn’t require a security deposit, making it pretty accessible.
Credit Line Increases
Make your first five monthly payments on time, and you might qualify for a credit limit increase. Who doesn’t love that?
No Security Deposit
This card doesn’t require a deposit, which can be a relief for those just starting out.
Credit Monitoring
Capital One provides free access to your credit score, so you can keep tabs on your progress.
3. Citi Secured Mastercard
If you’re considering a secured card, the Citi Secured Mastercard is a great choice.
It requires a security deposit, but it comes with features that can help you build your credit effectively.
Reporting to Credit Bureaus
This card reports your payments to all three major credit bureaus, which is crucial for building a positive credit history.
Helpful Resources
You’ll get access to credit education tools, which can be incredibly useful as you learn to navigate credit management.
Potential for Credit Line Increase
After six months of responsible use, you might be eligible for a credit line increase, which is a nice bonus.
4. Petal 2 “Cash Back” Visa Credit Card
The Petal 2 card stands out because it doesn’t rely on your credit score for approval.
Instead, it looks at your financial history and cash flow, making it a fantastic option for newcomers.
Cashback Rewards
You earn 1% cashback on all purchases, which can increase to 1.5% after you make 12 on-time payments. Every little bit helps, right?
No Fees
This card has no annual fee, late fees, or foreign transaction fees. That’s a win in my book!
Smart Spending Tools
Petal provides tools to help you manage your spending and understand your credit better.
5. Chase Freedom Student Credit Card
For students, the Chase Freedom Student Credit Card is an excellent pick. It’s designed to help young adults start building credit while earning rewards along the way.
Cashback on Purchases
You earn 1% cashback on everything, plus a $50 bonus if you make your first purchase within the first three months.
No Annual Fee
Like the others, this card doesn’t charge an annual fee, which is perfect for a student budget.
Free Credit Score Access
You can check your credit score for free, allowing you to track your progress and stay informed.
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it! In 2024, there are plenty of great credit cards out there designed to help you build your credit.
Whether you go for a secured option like the Discover it® Secured Credit Card or a no-deposit card like the Capital One Platinum, the key is to use your card responsibly.
Pay your bills on time, keep your balances low, and monitor your credit regularly. With a little patience and smart financial habits, you’ll be on your way to a strong credit score in no time!
Curious to learn more about credit cards? Dive into our guide on the best travel credit cards of 2024 by clicking the button below.
