“At 19, getting a credit card without a cosigner is possible but challenging due to the CARD Act of 2009, requiring proof of independent income. Student and secured cards are viable options for young adults with no credit history. Becoming an authorized user or exploring alternative credit-building tools can also help establish credit responsibly.”
Navigating Credit Card Options for 19-Year-Olds Without a Cosigner
In the U.S., the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure (CARD) Act of 2009 sets strict rules for young adults under 21 seeking credit cards. To get a credit card at 19 without a cosigner, you must demonstrate an independent ability to repay any charges, meaning you need a verifiable source of income. This can include wages from a job, scholarships, or other financial aid, but not parental support unless you have a shared bank account with reasonable access. Unfortunately, most major credit card issuers, such as Chase, Bank of America, and Capital One, no longer allow cosigners, limiting options for those without sufficient income or credit history.
Student Credit Cards: A Popular Choice
For 19-year-olds enrolled in college, student credit cards are often the best starting point. These cards are designed for individuals with little to no credit history and typically have lower income requirements. For example, the Discover it® Student Cash Back card offers 5% cash back on rotating categories (up to $1,500 per quarter, upon activation) and 1% on all other purchases, with no annual fee. Applicants must be at least 18, enrolled in a two- or four-year college, and provide proof of income, such as part-time job earnings or scholarships. Similarly, the Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card provides 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming services, and grocery stores, with no annual fee and a relatively lenient approval process for students.
Secured Credit Cards: Building Credit with a Deposit
If you’re not a student or lack sufficient income, secured credit cards are another viable option. These require a refundable security deposit, typically $200-$300, which becomes your credit limit. The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card is a strong choice, offering 1.5% cash back on all purchases and no annual fee. The OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card is notable for not requiring a credit check, making approval easier for those with no credit history, though it has a high APR (29.24% variable). Responsible use, such as keeping balances low and paying on time, can lead to credit limit increases or upgrades to unsecured cards, with the deposit refunded upon account closure in good standing.
Alternative Credit-Building Options
For 19-year-olds unable to qualify for a traditional or secured credit card, becoming an authorized user on a parent’s or trusted relative’s credit card is a practical alternative. This allows you to use the card and build credit without being legally responsible for payments. Issuers like Discover allow authorized users as young as 15, and responsible use by both the primary cardholder and the authorized user can boost your credit score. However, not all issuers report authorized user activity to credit bureaus, so confirm this with the card issuer beforehand. Another option is a credit-builder loan, like the Brigit Credit Builder, which involves small, affordable payments to build credit without a physical card. These loans require a monthly fee (e.g., $9.99 for Brigit’s Plus membership) but can diversify your credit profile.
Income Requirements and Application Tips
The CARD Act doesn’t specify a minimum income, but issuers typically expect enough to cover minimum monthly payments, often around $25 for starter cards. Income sources like part-time jobs, freelance work, or scholarships count, and some issuers allow listing parental allowances if you have reasonable access to them. To improve approval odds, apply for cards with pre-approval offers that don’t impact your credit score, such as those from Capital One. Avoid applying for multiple cards at once, as each application triggers a hard inquiry, potentially lowering your credit score. Checking your credit report for errors before applying can also help.
Other Considerations
While getting a credit card at 19 without a cosigner is feasible, it requires financial discipline. High APRs (averaging 19.48% for student cards) mean carrying a balance can lead to costly interest charges. Retail store cards, like those from gas stations or department stores, may be easier to qualify for but often have high interest rates and limited usability. Always pay on time and keep credit utilization below 30% to build a strong credit history, which can lead to better loan terms and financial opportunities later. If a credit card isn’t an option, debit or prepaid cards can teach financial responsibility without credit-building benefits.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information based on current trends, reports, and expert tips from reputable financial sources. Always verify terms with credit card issuers and consult a financial advisor for personalized advice.
