Fortunly's Guide
Advertiser Disclosure

The Best Credit Cards for Young Adults in 2023

Written By
Julija A.
Updated
October 14,2023
Some or all of the products/services listed on this page are from our affiliate partners from which we receive commissions. This, however, does not influence the evaluations in our reviews. Learn more by reading our Advertiser Disclosure.

Young people love shopping online, traveling, and staying in hotels just as much as any other generation. However, to manage all that, they often need a credit card. The hunt for the right card isn’t always easy, and there are no guarantees of approval, as young adults rarely have established credit scores.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best credit cards for young adults. These options are easy to qualify for and will help you with building good credit. You can also take advantage of cashback rewards and free travel miles while learning how to manage your finances.

Show More...

Top-Rated Credit Cards for Young Adults in October 2023

Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa® Logo

Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa®

4.5 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 14.99% - 29.99%
Minimum deposit: $0
Annual fee: $0
Minimum credit score: Good
Key Facts
Product Details
Pros & Cons
  • $0 minimum deposit
  • Credit limit up to $25,000
  • 1.5% cash back for each purchase
Applied Bank® Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® Credit Card Logo

Applied Bank® Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® Credit Card

4.5 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 9.99%
Minimum deposit: $200
Annual fee: $48
Minimum credit score: None
Key Facts
Product Details
Pros & Cons
  • $200 minimum deposit
  • Limit can be increased to $5,000
  • Accepted at all Visa terminals worldwide
OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card Logo

OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card

4 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 25.64% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $200
Annual fee: $35
Minimum credit score:​​ None
Key Facts
Product details
Pros & Cons
  • 24/7 roadside assistance
  • No credit check
  • Customers set their own credit limit
  • Up to $40 late payment fee
  • 3% foreign transaction fee
FIT® Platinum Mastercard® Logo

FIT® Platinum Mastercard®

4 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 29.99%
Minimum deposit: $0
Annual fee: $99
Minimum credit score: Bad
KEY FACTS
PRODUCT DETAILS
PROS & CONS
  • Unsecured credit card
  • No minimum interest charge
  • Used in locations where Mastercard® is accepted
First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard® Secured Credit Card Logo

First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard® Secured Credit Card

4 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 19.24% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $200
Annual fee: $39
Credit score: Poor/Limited/No Credit
Key Facts
Product Details
Pros & Cons
  • No credit score requirement
  • Rental insurance
  • Fuel Rewards Network
  • Mastercard benefits
  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • Up to $41 late payment fee
Petal 2 Visa® Credit Card Logo

Petal 2 Visa® Credit Card

4 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 18.24% - 32.24% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $0
Annual fee: $0
Minimum credit score:​​ Fair
Key Facts
Product details
Pros & Cons
  • Up to $10,000 credit limit
  • Petal Offers
  • Up to 1.5% cashback
  • 24/7 roadside assistance
  • No foreign transaction fees
Chase Freedom Flex℠ Credit Card Logo

Chase Freedom Flex℠ Credit Card

5 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Read Full Review
APR: 17.99% – 26.74% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $0
Annual fee: $0
Minimum credit score: Good
Key Facts
Product details
pros & cons
  • No minimum deposit
  • No annual fee
  • 1% cashback on all purchases
Citi® Double Cash Card Logo

Citi® Double Cash Card

4.5 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 17.74% - 27.74% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $0
Annual fee: $0
Minimum credit score: Good
Key Facts
Product details
Pros & Cons
  • Unsecured credit card
  • Multiple redemption options
  • Rewards on purchases and payments
  • Contactless payments
Discover it® Secured Logo

Discover it® Secured

5 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 25.99% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $200
Annual fee: $0
Minimum credit score:​​ None
Key Features
Product details
Pros & Cons
  • 2% cash back at restaurants and gas stations
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases
  • Matched cashback after the first year
  • No late fees on first payments
  • Can be upgraded to unsecured after just seven months
Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card  Logo

Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card

4.5 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 18.99% - 26.99% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $0
Annual fee: $95
Minimum credit score: Good
Key Facts
Product details
Pros & Cons
  • Quarterly and annual bonuses
  • Valid for both travel and accommodation
  • $100 TSA credit
  • Fraud coverage
  • No foreign transaction fees
Chase Freedom Unlimited® Logo

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

5 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Read Full Review
APR: 17.99% – 26.74% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $0
Annual fee: $0
Minimum credit score: Good
Key Facts
Product details
Pros & Cons
  • Cash bonus in the first three months
  • Up to 5% cashback
  • Cash back convertible to gift cards and accommodation
  • 0% APR for the first 15 months
  • No membership fees
Discover it® Student Cash Back Logo

Discover it® Student Cash Back

5 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 15.99% - 24.99% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $0
Annual fee: $0
Minimum credit score: None
Key Facts
Product details
Pros & Cons
  • Quarterly 5% cashback in alternating categories 
  • Flat 1% cash back on other purchases
  • 0% purchase APR for the first 6 months
  • First late fee not applied
  • Bonus rewards for good grades
Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students Logo

Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students

4.5 stars Our Rating

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Apply Now Read Full Review
APR: 16.99% - 26.99% (variable)
Minimum deposit: $0
Annual fee: $0
Minimum credit score: Good
Key Facts
Product details
Pros & Cons
  • Free access to FICO score
  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • 0% APR for first 18 months
  • $200 cash reward after spending $1,000 within 90 days of opening
  • Up to 3% cashback in one category
Quick Breakdown

Best Credit Cards for First-Timers - Our Picks:

  • Petal 2 Visa® Credit Card - Low credit score requirements
  • Upgrade Visa® Card with Cash Rewards - No annual or hidden fees
  • Applied Bank® Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® Credit Card - No credit score requirements
  • OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card - Bank account not required
  • FIT Mastercard® Credit Card - Fraud liability coverage
  • First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard® Secured Credit Card - Great for building your credit score
  • Citi® Double Cash Card - Cashback rewards
  • Discover it® Secured - Matched cashback after the first year
  • Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card - Bonus miles on each purchase
  • Chase Freedom Flex℠ Credit Card - 0% intro APR

  • Chase Freedom Unlimited® - Cashback convertible to gift cards and accommodation
  • Discover it® Student Cash Back - Quarterly 5% cashback
  • Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students - Generous welcome bonus

Detailed Reviews of Credit Cards for Young Adults

Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa® Review

Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa® Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
14.99% - 29.99%
Minimum deposit:
$0
Annual fee:
$0
Minimum credit score:
Good

Selecting your first card as a young adult can be challenging, because you’ll want to consider everything - low fees and excellent APR in particular. You also want your transactions to be reported to all major bureaus to increase your credit score.

These are all aspects where the Upgrade Visa® Card with Cash Rewards excels. It has no fees whatsoever, no security deposit required, and it also rewards you with a 1.5% cash back for every purchase.

Getting the Credit Card

The process of obtaining this card is quite convenient: The company clearly has a young audience in mind, because you can complete the process entirely online. All you have to do is fill out the form, and Upgrade will provide you with all the information on the credit lines you are eligible for. Filling out the form is free, and won’t negatively impact your credit score.

Once you find out the limit you’re eligible for - ranging from $500 to a whopping $25,000 - you can apply for your card. 

As with many other cards, you’ll have to wait a bit for the physical card to arrive in your mailbox. Since it is a Visa card, it will be accepted almost anywhere, and you’ll be able to start earning that cash back in no time.

Rewards Program

The rewards program with this card starts with a welcome bonus: If you make three debit transactions within 60 days of opening a Rewards Checking account, you’ll get a $200 bonus*! Then, it becomes all about the cash back. With it, you will receive a 1.5% cash back for every purchase you make, whether you’re buying groceries or paying your mobile phone bill.

Furthermore, this card also comes with use flexibility. Since you will pay back all your expenses in fixed installments over the next two years, you can use it both as a credit card and a line of credit. It is definitely different from how other credit cards operate, as it allows managing your finances much more easily.

However, this card lacks other rewards young adults could find beneficial. For example, you can’t pile up points or cash back to afford a more significant purchase down the road. Instead, your cashback rewards are automatically added to the next month’s balance.

Furthermore, it doesn’t offer the much-appreciated 0% introductory APR rate. This bonus might be crucial for paying off debts faster for those carrying a balance. The card also doesn’t offer a sign-up bonus, which is beneficial to anyone looking to improve their credit score.

Lastly, for young adults used to working with cash, the fact that you cannot use this card to withdraw funds at the nearest ATM can be a significant drawback. 

Pricing

The pricing aspect of this card is probably what makes it stand out as a card young adults could benefit from. First of all, this card doesn’t have any annual fees, and you don’t have to put up a deposit. That is a significant amount of money you can use to pay off your debts faster.

Apart from the lack of these typical fees, there is no need to read the fine print for other expenses, so this is an excellent starter credit card. You’ll have to take care of paying the monthly installments, and that’s all there is. The fact that these fees are so streamlined makes budgeting very simple - something those just starting to manage their finances will much appreciate.

Reasons to Apply:

  • No annual or hidden fees
  • Online application
  • Effortless budgeting with fixed-rate monthly installments

*To qualify for the welcome bonus, you must open and fund a new Rewards Checking Plus account through Upgrade and make 3 qualifying debit card transactions from your Rewards Checking Plus account within 60 days of the date the Rewards Checking Plus account is opened. If you have previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not open a Rewards Checking Plus account as part of this application process, you are not eligible for this welcome bonus offer. Your Upgrade Card and Rewards Checking Plus account must be open and in good standing to receive a bonus. To qualify, debit card transactions must have settled and exclude ATM transactions. Please refer to the applicable Upgrade VISA® Debit Card Agreement and Disclosures for more information. Welcome bonus offers cannot be combined, substituted, or applied retroactively. The bonus will be applied to your Rewards Checking Plus account as a one-time payout credit within 60 days after meeting the conditions.

+ Show more
Read Full Review

Applied Bank® Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® Credit Card Review

Applied Bank® Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® Credit Card Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
9.99%
Minimum deposit:
$200
Annual fee:
$48
Minimum credit score:
None

When you start on your path to financial responsibility, you’ll quickly notice that poor credit can hinder your options. As a credit card that doesn’t check your credit score, the Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® credit card is undoubtedly one of the best credit cards for young adults with bad credit or no credit history.

It also comes with an exceptionally low APR rate and very convenient mobile and online banking options. On the flip side, this card also comes with an annual fee and a mandatory security deposit. It doesn’t have any rewards that young adults could find helpful, either.

Getting the Credit Card

Getting this card is a very straightforward process. You can apply for the card on the company’s website, where you will find a form to fill in with your details, such as name and surname, address, and whether you already have another card. The application is detailed but relatively quick to complete. The bank will draw your initial deposit from the account you’ve provided.

There is no credit score check requirement with this card, and the website promises a 60-second approval. After this, you’ll need to deposit some funds onto your card. Don’t worry; it will be available to you as soon as you activate the card, which should arrive at your doorstep within seven to 10 business days. When it does, you will need to activate it.

Some of the other cards on our starter credit cards list allow you to activate your card online. Unfortunately, Applied Bank requires you to contact customer support via phone to do so.

Rewards Program

Young adults in search of a new card that comes with benefits and rewards should look elsewhere, as rewards aren’t this card’s priority. However, it does come with some other perks new users might enjoy.

As one of the best credit cards for young adults with no credit history, Applied Bank’s card reports payments and transactions to all three national credit bureaus. This detailed reporting ensures quality credit building. And, since it is a Visa card, you can use it practically anywhere, even when you travel abroad.

It also has a flexible security deposit, and the possibility to increase your spending limit regularly. The initial deposit amount ranges from $200 to $1,000, but you can increase your credit limit to $5,000. This is impressive for a secured credit card with no minimum credit requirements; there is no credit limit increase fee, either.

An excellent mobile app is yet another perk of this card. We feel that all good credit card companies for young adults should offer the same feature, as it allows people to easily track their financial activities on the go. The ability to effortlessly track your spending patterns can be the key to accomplishing your credit-building goals. Furthermore, it’s also convenient as it allows you to pay your credit card bills wherever you are and avoid late fees.

Pricing

Charges play a crucial role when checking out your options for the best credit cards to build credit. Unfortunately, this card has many of those hidden in the fine print. If you are fee-conscious, then you should undoubtedly take the time to read its pricing section.

This card brags about its low and fixed APR. It undoubtedly looks great on paper, at just 9.99%, but there’s also the annual fee, which is $48. Additionally, this card doesn’t have an introductory APR promotion or even a grace period. You should expect your interest to start accruing the moment you make your first purchase.

You should also be aware of other fees when signing up for a Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® credit card as your first credit card. This card has a $38 charge for late and returned payments. 

Card replacement and additional cards will cost $30, and you’ll need to pay the same amount for the stop-payment fee. Luckily, this card doesn’t charge an application fee, and there is no penalty APR.

Reasons to Apply:

  • 9.99% APR rate
  • $200 security deposit
  • The credit limit can grow up to $5,000
  • No credit score requirement
+ Show more
Read Full Review

OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card Review

OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
25.64% (variable)
Minimum deposit:
$200
Annual fee:
$35
Minimum credit score:
​​None

The OpenSky Secured Credit Visa Card is an appealing option for college students without a credit rating and bank account. The benefit of secured credit cards is that they can help build your credit score. That’s why this is a worthwhile credit card pick for young adults.

Getting the Credit Card

Most of the time, when you apply for a credit card, you’ll need to open up a bank account that’s linked to it. OpenSky doesn’t have that requirement. Lower requirements and no credit check mean it’s pretty easy to get a hold of.

Since this is a secured deposit card, it will require you to make a refundable cash deposit of between $200 and $3,000, which is placed in an FDIC-insured account. Your credit limit will equal this cash deposit. If you cancel your OpenSky card and pay your balance in full, you’ll get your deposit back.

Unfortunately, OpenSky doesn’t offer you any kind of welcome bonus when you sign up for its secured card. Like other affordable credit cards for young adults, its primary purpose is building up your credit score.

Using the card reasonably and staying on top of your payments can improve your credit score, as your payment history will be reported to the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) each month.

Rewards Program

Currently, the OpenSky Secured Credit Visa Card doesn’t offer any specific rewards to its users. However, since this is a Visa card, it comes with other benefits like:

  • Zero-dollar liability policy
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver
  • Roadside assistance

Pricing

This OpenSky credit card for building credit charges a fair annual fee of $35. The APR is also below average for this card type: 25.64% (variable). On top of this, there’s a 3% foreign transaction fee for overseas purchases.

Unfortunately, OpenSky doesn’t offer you the option of upgrading to an unsecured card. However, with its reasonable expenses, the OpenSky Secured Credit Visa Card is a great tool that helps young adults build their credit scores from the ground up.

Reasons to Apply:

  • No credit check required
  • Bank account not required
  • Reports to major credit bureaus
  • Choose your credit limit
  • Visa card benefits
+ Show more
Read Full Review

FIT® Platinum Mastercard® Review

FIT® Platinum Mastercard® Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
29.99%
Minimum deposit:
$0
Annual fee:
$99
Minimum credit score:
Bad

The best starter credit cards for young adults are generally designed to help cardholders rebuild or establish their credit score, and the FIT® Platinum Mastercard® is no different in that respect.

With this unsecured card, customers get free credit score reports by signing up for electronic statements, which helps you track your credit score-building progress. However, there are a number of significant drawbacks, including the high fees and interest rates.

Getting the Credit Card

Getting your hands on a FIT® Platinum Mastercard® is a straightforward and speedy process. First, you’ll need to apply for the credit card through the company’s website or by calling the number provided on the card issuer’s website.

Of course, the application process for one of the best credit cards for young adults to build credit requires you to divulge some personal info. In addition to your full name, you’ll have to provide your Social Security number, address, and your date of birth. These are standard requirements.

The company will review your personal data and monthly income reports. This process is usually pretty quick, but it may take up to 30 days. This is pretty much the same procedure that applicants for credit cards for young adults with great credit have to undergo. Once this process is complete, you’ll receive the FIT® Platinum Mastercard® within three business days via mail.

Lastly, you’ll need to activate your new credit card within 30 days of getting it. For the FIT Mastercard® Credit Card, all you have to do is go to its website or contact the company by phone to have the credit card fully activated.

Rewards Program

Unfortunately, this card has no sign-up bonuses or rewards for purchases. However, there are a few other notable perks that customers get to enjoy. For starters, if you sign up for electronic statements, you’ll get access to free credit score reports. This feature makes FIT one of the best credit cards for young adults with no credit score, as it enables them to track their progress and improve their standing.

Additionally, there is a $400 credit limit, which can be doubled to $800 after six months of making minimum payments, which is higher than what you usually get with an unsecured credit card. This should serve as a safety net while you work your way to getting a better credit score.

Today, it’s not enough to merely know what credit cards are best for young adults - you also have to understand how to use them to your advantage. That’s why FIT gives customers access to a knowledge base of articles, which offers guidance on various topics, including how to build their credit score.

If that’s not enough, customers get to enjoy peace of mind thanks to the $0 fraud liability feature, which means that you can’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges to your card. This is a handy security component whether you’re shopping online or traveling overseas.

Pricing

Unfortunately, this card isn’t among the best low-interest credit cards for young adults. As a matter of fact, the most notable downside and perhaps the dealbreaker is the high APR coupled with the high monthly fee. The 29.99% APR is the highest rate on our list, and there is no 0% introductory APR promotion.

Moreover, the monthly fees are activated after the first 12 months. With the $99 annual fee, you’ll get a $301 credit limit once the annual fee is deducted. Still, it is one of the best credit cards for young adults with bad credit if you can reap all its benefits in the first year.

Another expense worth mentioning is the $89 one-time fee that is charged even before your account is opened. It’s certainly an unusual pricing method for an unsecured credit card that won’t sit well with everyone.

Reasons to Apply:

  • Monthly credit score report
  • $0 fraud liability
  • $400 starting credit limit
  • Credit limit doubles after six months
+ Show more

First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard® Secured Credit Card Review

First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard® Secured Credit Card Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
19.24% (variable)
Minimum deposit:
$200
Annual fee:
$39
Credit score:
Poor/Limited/No Credit

A great first card for young people, the secured Mastercard from First Progress stands out with its below-standard APR and the fast track it offers users to a better credit score.

Getting the Credit Card

The First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card requires no credit history check or minimum credit score for approval. Thanks to its easy application procedure and low requirements, First Progress is a great option if you are searching for credit cards for young adults with no credit record.

After you fill out an online application, you’ll be offered the Expedited Processing option, which allows you to receive the card within seven days of applying.

This fast-tracked process costs $19.95 and will be applied to your card along with the security deposit amount you select. If you apply without the expedited process, your request shouldn’t take more than three weeks, as is the case with most secure credit cards. 

Rewards Program

At present, the First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card doesn’t offer any rewards or bonuses to cardholders. However, remember that this is a Platinum Mastercard, meaning that all the perks of standard, Gold, and Platinum cards apply. Some interesting ones include: 

  • Zero-dollar liability for fraudulent charges
  • Rental insurance
  • Access to the Fuel Rewards Network
  • Coverage for extended warranty 
  • Purchase protection

Regular reports of your credit history are sent each month to the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. If you regularly keep up with your payments, this will cause your credit score to improve. 

Pricing

This is an affordable credit card for young adults in terms of APR. The purchase APR for Platinum Select cards is 19.24% (V), which is significantly lower than the industry standard. You’ll have to pay an annual fee of $39, but that’s also lower than what you’d get with most secured cards.

Since this is a secured credit card, a safety deposit of between $200 and $2,000 is required. This amount will represent your line of credit once you get approved for the card.

Foreign transactions incur a 3% fee. Also, for any late payments, you may be charged up to $41, which is a similar deal to what you’d get with other credit cards for no credit history. Overall, the First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card is a great stepping stone to a healthy credit score.

Reasons to Apply:

  • Reasonable APR
  • Great for improving your credit score
  • Affordable annual fee
  • Mastercard benefits
+ Show more
Read Full Review

Petal 2 Visa® Credit Card Review

Petal 2 Visa® Credit Card Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
18.24% - 32.24% (variable)
Minimum deposit:
$0
Annual fee:
$0
Minimum credit score:​​
Fair

Petal focuses on rewards rather than fees and provides credit cards that are ideal for first-timers. In fact, the Petal 2 Visa credit card is one of the best credit cards for young people, especially those who drive a lot.

There are some interesting perks that come with this membership, including 24/7 roadside assistance and a damage collision waiver for auto rentals. And that’s not all - read on.

Getting the Credit Card

It’s worth mentioning that this is an unsecured card, meaning that it doesn’t require a deposit. However, getting approved for a Petal card takes a bit of time and involves screening each candidate. Petal uses algorithms when deciding who to approve for this card. The company takes into account any outstanding debt, late payments, and bankruptcies. If you don’t have any of those in your credit history, you’ll likely get approved.

Unlike most secure credit cards, this one has a very high credit limit of up to $10,000. The exact amount depends on the aforementioned screening process and the credit score. As such, young people who have never had a credit card before will most likely get a significantly lower limit, with the lowest option being $300. On the plus side, you won’t have to put money on the card right away, so it’s still a better option than what some of the competition is offering.

Rewards Program

Petal keeps things simple when it comes to credit card rewards: There’s no welcome bonus, but there is an ongoing cashback deal that improves over time.

You’ll start with a 1% cash back on all spending. If you make your credit card payments on time for six months in a row, your card gets upgraded and you’ll earn 1.25% cashback. After a full year of regular payments, you’ll reach the final rewards category of 1.5% cashback on each purchase. What’s more, you can get 2% to 10% back at specific locations.

Although 1.5% is the highest rate you can get for most purchases, there’s no maximum amount for the cash back, and as long as your payments are on time, the percentage won’t be reduced.

Many consider this the best cashback credit card because of Petal Offers. Every merchant has the option to partner with Petal and enter this program, which offers some additional discounts or better cashback deals. These are usually time-limited deals and can net you up to 10% cash back.

Pricing

The Petal 2 Visa credit card has no membership fees. Even though there is no annual fee, you’ll still pay APR on each transaction. APR is variable and ranges between 18.24% - 32.24%. There are also no extra fees on foreign transactions.

Reasons to Apply:

  • Up to $10,000 credit limit
  • Petal Offers
  • Up to 1.5% cashback
  • No membership fees
+ Show more
Read Full Review

Chase Freedom Flex℠ Credit Card Review

Chase Freedom Flex℠ Credit Card Review Logo
APR:
17.99% – 26.74%
Minimum deposit:
$0
Annual fee:
$0
Minimum credit score:
Good

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ Credit Card is a card that is often recommended due to benefits such as no APR for the first 15 months, no annual fee, and attractive rewards. Truth be told, this financial product isn’t the easiest one to acquire due to the high credit score requirements. Therefore, if you have a good credit score, be sure to check this card out. 

Getting the Credit Card

The process of obtaining the Chase Freedom Flex℠ Credit Card is quite simple and is completed online. You fill out a form with information about yourself, from your full name and address, to your Social Security number and total gross annual income. 

You can get pre-approved for the card with no effect on your credit score. However, when you apply for this financial product, Chase will perform a hard credit inquiry, which will hurt your credit score a bit. The credit score you will likely need to be eligible for this Chase card is at least 670.

Rewards Program

This is one of the top credit cards for rewards. Namely, you get a $200 bonus with an additional 5% grocery store offer, which can total up to $800. To be eligible for this bonus, you need to spend at least $500 in purchases within three months of acquiring the card.

Additionally, there are rewards updated on a quarterly basis. Currently, you can earn a 5% cash back on eligible purchases carried out at Walmart using PayPal. That’s not all, as you may also receive:

  • 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • 3% cash back on restaurant dining, including takeout and qualifying delivery services
  • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases

Pricing

A significant benefit of the Chase Freedom Flex℠ Credit Card is that you won’t be charged an APR for the first 15 months, making it an optimal choice for your first credit card. However, remember that the percentage you’ll have to pay afterward is on the higher side, as it ranges from 17.99% to 26.74%.

The APR you’ll get charged depends on your creditworthiness, which makes this card best suited for those with better credit scores. Nevertheless, if you choose this product, you save up on annual fees, as there aren’t any with this product.

Reasons to Apply:

  • A wide range of attractive rewards
  • No APR during the first 15 months
  • No annual fee
  • Pre-approval with no effect on the credit score
+ Show more

Citi® Double Cash Card Review

Citi® Double Cash Card Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
17.74% - 27.74% (variable)
Minimum deposit:
$0
Annual fee:
$0
Minimum credit score:
Good

The next card on our list of the best credit cards for young professionals is Citi Double Cash Card. Issued by Citigroup, an American multinational company, this card is an excellent choice for students and young people who want a cashback rewards program on their cards.

Getting the Credit Card

Before we start explaining the generous Citi Double Cash Card cashback reward program, we’ll need to say a few words about the process of getting this credit card. The application procedure can be completed online. Alternatively, you can call the bank’s customer service and ask the agents to guide you through the process.

One of the reasons the Citi Double Cash Card is one of the top-rated credit cards for young adults is that you don’t need to have any money to get the card. Citi Double Cash Card is an unsecured card, meaning that there are no deposit requirements for you to fulfill.

However, like with many other credit cards, you need to provide your credit score and credit history to the bank. Based on your creditworthiness, the bank will decide on the size of your credit limit.

Rewards Program

Citi Double Cash Card is especially attractive to young consumers because of its cashback rewards. Unlike standard cashback rewards that usually include 1% returns, Citi Double Cash Card offers a 2% reward program for all purchases. Every time you make a purchase, you’ll earn 1% cashback, while the other 1% you’ll get after your payment is completed. 

Like with other good credit cards for young adults, you’ll need to pay your account balance on time to earn the cashback rewards. These are, however, not available on balance transfers, cash advances, or returned items. 

There used to be a minimum of $25 to redeem the cashback offer, but now you may do so at any amount. You can opt for a check, credit card statement, or direct deposit. Another option is to convert earned money into ThankYou Points. You can convert as little as $1 in cash rewards and redeem points for gift cards or use them for Shop with Points purchases at Amazon.

Pricing

The Citi Double Cash Card is a good credit card for young adults because there are no annual fees. Moreover, in the first 18 months, consumers are freed from paying any APR on balance transfers.

Note, however, that the introductory period with a 0% APR doesn’t apply to purchases. After the welcome offer expires, the standard APR applies on balance transfers, as well. It will be between 17.74% and 27.74%, depending on your credit score. Be aware that there is a high APR for cash advances (28.99%) and late or returned payments (29.99%).

Reasons to Apply:

  • No annual fees
  • 2% cashback offer 
  • 0% APR on balance transfers for the first 18 months 
  • 24/7 customer support
+ Show more

Discover it® Secured Review

Discover it® Secured Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
25.99% (variable)
Minimum deposit:
$200
Annual fee:
$0
Minimum credit score:​​
None

As its name suggests, Discover it Secured is a secured card, which means that the issuer requires you to make a deposit when signing up. This deposit covers any late payments and is returned to you once you upgrade to an unsecured card. Let’s see why this is one of the best first credit cards for young adults.

Getting the Credit Card

Before you can start paying with Discover it Secured and collecting its rewards, there are several steps to complete. With Discover, applying for a credit card also means opening a bank account. This is the only option for financing the credit card, which could be problematic for some people. Although it’s not ideal in the short term, you’ll probably need that bank account for work-related transactions down the road.

One of the main reasons Discover is among the top 10 credit cards for young adults is the low security deposit - the minimum is $200, while the maximum deposit (and credit limit) is set at $2,500. A major perk of this financial product is that there aren’t any credit score requirements, so anyone can apply.

The card can also be upgraded: Seven months after signing up, you’ll be given the option of switching over to the unsecured version of the card. This means you’ll get your deposit back while keeping the same account and your credit score unaffected.

Rewards Program

Discover is also considered the best credit card for young adults thanks to its rewards. The introductory offer is especially generous: Discover’s cashback program enables you to earn cash back and then reclaim it in a number of ways.

Speaking of cash back, this card is the perfect companion for every young driver. It earns you 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants for up to $1,000 each quarter. All other purchases are eligible for 1% cash back. There’s also the Cashback Match, which allows you to get an automatic match of all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year.

Pricing

The Discover it Secured card comes with no annual membership fees. On the other hand, the APR is unavoidable. During the first six months, your APR will be 10.99% on every balance transfer. After that, it goes up to 25.99% and becomes variable.

This is a bit higher compared to other top credit cards for young adults, but there’s a silver lining: Discover won’t charge you any fees on your first late payment. It’s not much, but it helps.

Reasons to Apply:

  • No annual fees
  • 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases
  • Matched cash back after the first year
  • No late fees on first payment
  • Can be upgraded to unsecured after just seven months
+ Show more

Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card Review

Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
18.99% - 26.99% (variable)
Minimum deposit:
$0
Annual fee:
$95
Minimum credit score:
Good

The best starter credit card isn’t always about cash back and discounts. Maybe you’re traveling a lot. Maybe you’re running a startup company and have a lot of meetings out of town. In these instances, a travel rewards card like the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card is ideal, as it dishes out rewards in the form of bonus miles.

Getting the Credit Card

The Capital One credit card application process is a little more rigorous compared to other names on our list. Many other companies tend to overlook very low credit scores, but Capital One requires a credit score of at least 670, so this isn’t one of the credit cards available with no credit history.

In addition to the high credit score, candidates can’t have any bankruptcies or loan defaults on their records. Preferred candidates have had no loans or credit cards for at least three years.

Rewards Program

When you compare the perks and the requirements, this card is definitely worth it. Venture is all about those free travel miles, granting you free flights across the country and upgrades to business class. You get 75,000 bonus miles if you spend $4,000 within three months of opening an account, for example.

It’s not an excellent rewards credit card just because you get two miles for each dollar spent, but also because of the bonuses you can score along the way. For example, if you spend $100 a month on various purchases, you’ll be rewarded with 2,400 miles per year.

The Capital One Venture Rewards credit card also comes with fraud coverage and $100 in credit for Global Entry or TSA application fees, so it’s more than just the best credit card for first-timers. It’s also worth noting that you can use these points for accommodation and with over 15 airline companies partnered with Capital One.

Pricing

As expected, such a great rewards program comes at a price. There is an annual fee of $95, which is somewhat steep considering that many other cards tailored to young adults waive these fees in favor of a higher APR. Speaking of APR, it’s variable and ranges from 18.99% to 26.99%.

If you’re looking for an affordable credit card for young adults, this might not be the ideal option. But if you’re a frequent traveler who wants to take advantage of the rewards program, we highly recommend it.

Reasons to Apply:

  • Bonus miles on each purchase
  • Quarterly and annual bonuses
  • Easy reward redemption
  • Valid for both travel and accommodation
  • $100 TSA credit
  • Fraud coverage
+ Show more

Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review

Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review Logo
APR:
17.99% – 26.74% (variable)
Minimum deposit:
$0
Annual fee:
$0
Minimum credit score:
Good

Chase Freedom Unlimited is one of the best credit cards for students and other young adults. With lots of rewards and no membership fees, it serves a broad spectrum of customers.

Getting the Credit Card

Before we look at the rewards, let’s examine the requirements. Chase isn’t the kind of company where just anyone can get a credit card, which is why it has a minimum credit score requirement of 600. Luckily, you won’t be required to place a deposit, but the exact limit will depend on your credit history.

Rewards Program

In the rewards department, Chase definitely delivers. You can earn bonuses on just about anything. Initially, you can score a $200 bonus if you manage to spend $500 during the first three months after opening an account.

In addition, every purchase made in all grocery stores except for Target® and Walmart® during your first year is eligible for a 5% cash back on up to $12,000 in total annual spending.

You can also net 3% of your money back in restaurants and on drug store purchases, and 1.5% cash back on every other purchase. Chase often has time-limited deals with its partners for even greater rewards.

Many consider this the best credit card for students because of how flexible the point conversion is. Once you’ve accrued some credit card points, you can convert them into cash, gift cards, travel bookings, and even Amazon purchases.

Pricing

The best things in life are free, and so is the membership at Chase Freedom Unlimited. In fact, during your first 15 months, you won’t need to pay a dime. The APR is 0% during this period. Then, it ranges between 17.99% and 26.74%.

Reasons to Apply:

  • Cash bonus in the first three months
  • Up to 5% cash back
  • Cash back convertible to gift cards and accommodation
  • 0% APR for the first 15 months
  • No membership fees
+ Show more

Discover it® Student Cash Back Review

Discover it® Student Cash Back Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
15.99% - 24.99% (variable)
Minimum deposit:
$0
Annual fee:
$0
Minimum credit score:
None

If you have a great GPA, you should consider Discover it Student Cash Back, one of the best credit cards for students. Attractive cashback options, appealing rates, rewards, and a referral program are among the great perks of this card. 

Getting the Credit Card

It’s easy to apply for this card online, in person, or over the phone. Most importantly for anyone just starting college, the Discover it Student Cash Back card doesn’t require a credit score. However, remember that you’ll need to submit proof of your education status and grades.

Rewards Program

The Discover it Student Cash Back card’s reward program has terrific rewards and cashback options for users. The most exciting part of the program is 5% cash back for rotating purchase categories of up to $1,500 per quarter.

For any other purchases, a flat 1% cashback rate is applied. If you plan your expenses for each quarter, this is one of those great cashback credit cards. You have to apply for these cashback options quarterly, so setting up a reminder can be handy. 

Discover has an app on both Google Play and App Store to help you track these rewards and other valuable features. The app allows you to check your FICO score for free, contact customer service, get a free Social Security number alert, and freeze the card in case you lose it. 

Students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are eligible for the Good Grade Reward of a 1% cash bonus. The Discover it Student Cash Back card is the first credit card we’ve reviewed that offers this type of reward. The bonus can be earned once per year for up to five years. 

With Discover’s referral program, you can earn a $50 to $100 statement credit for each approved referral. 

Pricing

Discover offers favorable pricing for its Student Cash Back card. First up, there’s no annual fee for maintaining the account. The introductory APR of 0% is applied for the first six months, after which the standard 15.99% - 24.99% variable purchase APR applies. 

This is a starter credit card, and Discover knows its target demographic is students who are busy hitting the books. That’s why you won’t be charged a late fee for your first late payment.

Reasons to Apply:

  • No credit score required
  • Quarterly 5% cash back in alternating categories
  • Flat 1% cash back on other purchases
  • No annual fee
  • Introductory APR
  • First late fee not applied
  • Bonus rewards for good grades
+ Show more

Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students Review

Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students Review Logo Apply Now

On Official Website

APR:
16.99% - 26.99% (variable)
Minimum deposit:
$0
Annual fee:
$0
Minimum credit score:
Good

Bank of America Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students is truly one of the best credit cards for college students. For students with limited credit history who want favorable pricing with great rewards, this may be the right choice.

Getting the Credit Card

To get approved, you need to have a limited credit history. Keep in mind that for college students under 21, the Credit CARD Act of 2009 applies, so you will be required to have a cosigner or proof of independent income.

Rewards Program

New cardholders are eligible for a $200 online cash reward if they spend at least $1,000 on purchases within three months - 90 days, to be exact - of opening their account. This welcome bonus has a much lower requirement than most other cards.

The Bank of America student card has nice perks for its holders. For a 3% cashback offer, you can choose one of the following categories: gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement. Grocery stores and wholesale clubs are eligible for 2% cash back. These offers give back up to $2,500 quarterly in your chosen category. For all other purchases, you get 1% cash back.

With your mobile banking app or via online banking, you have the option of checking your FICO score for free. You’ll also get an overview of factors that influence your credit score and helpful advice for improving it.

Pricing

As you’d expect from a great first card for young people, Bank of America’s offer is reasonably priced. There is no annual fee for the account, which is always a good start. 

When you open your account, you’ll be offered the option of transferring your balance from other accounts. The transfer fee is 3% per transaction or a minimum of $10.

The introductory APR of 0% is available for 18 billing cycles for any balance transfers and purchases you make within 60 days of opening your account. After that, depending on your creditworthiness, a variable APR of between 16.99% and 26.99% is applied.

Reasons to Apply:

  • Easy-to-earn welcome bonus
  • Cashback rewards
  • 0% APR for 18 months
  • Free access to FICO score
+ Show more

The Benefits of Using Credit Cards for Young Adults

A lot of young people find credit cards confusing and even scary. However, credit cards are part of our daily lives, and owning one has many advantages.

Building Credit

One of the main reasons young people get credit cards is to start building their credit, which is essential for achieving financial stability in life. Bearing in mind that you can’t get decent loans without a good credit score, it’s vital to get a credit card for building credit.

Start slow, with smaller purchases that you know you won’t have any problem paying off, and gradually work your way towards bigger, more expensive transactions, and you’ll get to a good score in no time.

Reap the Rewards

Today, many credit cards come with incentives in the form of cash back or airline rewards programs. This is why many people have multiple credit cards in their wallets. One card nets them cash back in grocery stores, while another gets them accommodation deals when they travel. Every card comes with a different rewards plan, so pick the best credit card for young adults according to your needs.

Track Your Spending

The best first-time credit card wouldn’t be so great if it just enabled you to spend thousands of dollars and bury yourself in debt. Each of these cards records every single purchase you make, providing you with a complete history of your transactions and serving as a valuable tool during tax season.

Credit Cards for Young Adults Compared

Credit Card

Minimum deposit

Annual fee

APR

Best for

First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard® Secured Credit Card

$200 - $2,000

$39

17.74% (variable)

Building credit score

OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card

$200 - $3,000

$35

17.64% (variable)

Customers without bank account

Discover it® Secured

$200

$0

10.99% - 25.99% (variable)

Students on a budget

Petal 2 Visa® Credit Card

$0

$0

16.74% - 30.74% (variable)

Drivers

Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card

$0

$95

18.99% - 26.99% (variable)

Frequent travelers

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

$0

$0

17.99% – 26.74% (variable)

Grocery shopping

Discover it® Student Cash Back 

$0

$0

15.99% - 24.99% (variable)

Students

Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students

$0

$0

16.99% - 26.99% (variable)

People with large expenses

Citi® Double Cash Card

$0

$0

16.99% - 26.99%

(variable)

Cashback rewards

Milestone Mastercard®

$0

$35

24.9%

Transitional credit card

FIT Mastercard® Credit Card

$0

$99

29.99%

Fraud liability coverage

Applied Bank® Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® Card

$200-$1000

$48

9.99%

No credit score requirements

Upgrade Visa® Card with Cash Rewards

$0

$0

14.99% - 29.99%

High Rewards Rate

Indigo® Mastercard® Credit Card 

$0

$75 the first year; $99 after

24.9%

People with a fair credit score

Chase Freedom Flex℠ 

$0

$0

0% for the first 15 months; 17.99% – 26.74% (variable) after 

People with a high credit score

Evaluation Criteria

How We Evaluate Young-Adult Credit Cards

There are many different types of credit cards, which is why it’s important to know what you’re looking for, especially at the start of your credit history. Our methodology will help you comb through the different offers and find the most suitable card for your unique needs.

If you follow our guidelines, you’ll end up with a great card for young users that doesn’t come with high APR or annual fees.

Requirements

Getting a credit card with no credit history might sound difficult, but it is possible. Credit card requirements vary, and we look for cards with low or no credit score requirements while also examining the deposit requirements.

Ideally, the card should have a low minimum security deposit (if secured) and a high credit limit. Another important factor is whether a bank account is needed to apply for a credit card. It’s better if the card can be used without a bank account, as that can lead to additional fees.

Rewards and Welcome Offer

One of the main reasons people get starter credit cards is the rewards program. The first option here is a welcome offer, which can either act as an incentive for signing up with the credit card company or remain active throughout your first year. Depending on the credit card company, this bonus can come in the form of cashback at the end of the year, points for spending on rewards, or bonus miles.

Ongoing rewards are the second option. Your first credit card may either reward you with cash back after every qualifying purchase or provide you with bonus miles to use when traveling. The exact reward system will depend on individual credit card companies and the sort of deals they have with other businesses. It’s not very common to find a card that offers both cashback and airline rewards programs, for example.

Fees and APR

Fees are unavoidable when it comes to credit cards. That’s no real surprise, as this is how credit card companies earn their money, aside from interest charges. Luckily, the best credit cards for young adults usually come with significantly lower fees than the cards their parents use.

The fees include a fixed or variable APR. Most credit card companies try to attract new customers by offering a lower APR for the first year - some even go as low as 0% APR during that period. Of course, there’s also the annual credit card membership cost. We look for cards that either have sub-$100 annual fees or no membership fees at all.

FAQ

What is the best credit card for someone just starting out?

+

There are many excellent credit card options for people who have never used them before. The ideal cards don’t require a good credit score, have low or zero deposit requirements, and offer plenty of rewards. Using one of these cards is also the fastest way to build credit.

What are the best cards for young adults with credit card debt?

+

Young adults with credit card debt may consider credit cards that don’t require a high credit score. For instance, the Milestone Mastercard® comes with no credit score or deposit requirements, making it one of the best credit cards for young adults with bad credit.

Can I get a credit card with no income?

+

Credit card companies aren’t that concerned with the applicants’ income when deciding on whether to approve the application. Instead, they put more weight on the candidate’s credit score, although some don’t have this requirement.

What is the best age to get a credit card?

+

Many experts argue that 18 is the perfect time to get one of the best credit cards for young adults. Others believe you should wait a few years to be competent enough to handle financial responsibilities like tuition fees and rent.