Credit cards with an ITIN requirement

If you want to apply for a credit card but don’t have a Social Security number, there’s another option: Get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If approved for a card, you can start building a credit history, which can help you apply for other financial products.

What’s an ITIN?

An ITIN is a nine-digit tax processing number issued by the IRS. Many people who can’t obtain Social Security numbers opt for ITINs instead.

An ITIN can be useful if you want to apply for a credit card. Most card providers require a Social Security number in their applications, but some let you use an ITIN instead.

How to get an ITIN

Follow these steps to get an ITIN:

1. Fill out IRS Form W-7.
2. Mail the form to the IRS along with your immigration documentation and proof of identity, such as a visa or passport. Or, submit the required materials to an IRS walk-in office or Acceptance Agent.

For more information about applying for an ITIN, visit the IRS website.

Credit cards with an ITIN requirement

Here are a few cards you can apply for with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. If you’re new to credit, consider a secured credit card, which may offer higher approval odds.

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Name	Product	Welcome offer	Rewards	Annual fee	Filter values
Petal® Visa® Credit Card		N/A	Up to 10% cash back from select merchants, on other purchases earn 1% back, 1.25% after six on-time payments and 1.5% after 12 on-time payments	$0		Build your credit with rewards and no fees: Apply if you're new to credit or have a fair to good score.	Apply now View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Jasper Mastercard®		N/A	N/A	$0		Credit card for professionals relocating to America without a US credit history.	Apply now View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Deserve® Edu Card		Amazon Prime Student subscription credit up to $59	1% cash back on all purchases	$0		Designed for college students to build credit history and earn rewards.	Apply now View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...

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Why should I consider a card with an ITIN?

Not having a Social Security number doesn’t have to keep you from getting a credit card. With the right provider, you can use your ITIN to apply.

With a card, you can build credit with responsible use. After six months of credit activity, you’ll get a FICO score, which is the most widely used score in the United States.

A strong credit score is helpful for many important financial activities, such as getting the best credit cards or applying for a loan.

Bottom line

Many credit cards require a Social Security number, but some providers will accept ITINs. If you’re approved for a card, use it responsibly to build a strong credit score. Then you can compare credit cards to find an even better card that fits your financial needs.

Frequently asked questions

• How do I build a strong credit score?

  Pay your credit card bill on time every month and keep your card debt low. These are the biggest factors that determine your credit score.

• Why is a secured credit card a good choice for someone new to credit?

  To get a secured card, you must first put down a security deposit. Because your provider can take this deposit if you don’t pay your card bill, it may be more willing to take you on as a customer.

  Using your secured card responsibly will help you build your credit score. This, in turn, will open doors for you. For example, you’ll be able to apply for better credit cards and other financial products such as mortgages and car loans.

• How long does it take to be approved for a credit card?

  Major card providers typically offer immediate decisions on credit card applications. However, this isn’t always the case. If your provider needs to review your application further, wait seven to 10 business days to hear back.