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

Your first credit card is a big step, and an important one. Having a credit card means beginning to build a credit history and a credit score, which will be vital in the future, as you apply for loans and mortgages, job and apartments, and of course additional credit cards. If you don't have any credit history at all, you can think about getting a student credit card, which will enable you to establish a credit report with the major credit bureaus as well as giving you a new way to pay for your purchases. A secured credit card is another option, and one that many people go with when getting their first card. A secured card helps you build credit by giving you a small line of credit equal to a deposit you put down to open the card. You can also consider a prepaid card, but keep in mind that it won't help you build credit.