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I am 17 years old and want to open a credit card to build my credit. I have heard that...

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I am 17 years old and want to open a credit card to build my credit. I have heard that most companies won’t let me open any accounts because I am under 18. Is that true? If so, how can I start working on my credit before I turn 18? Do you know what credit card I can apply for to build my credit history? Thanks in advance.

Answered on Jun 1, 2013

Updated on Aug 10, 2020

The content is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change.

You cannot apply for a credit card if you are under 18 years of age. Also, you will need your own income to get approved for a credit card.

If you think you are ready for a credit card, you can ask your parents to make you an authorized user on their card. This is a good way to start building your credit history. If you do not want to be an authorized user, you will have to wait until you are 18 years old.

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