- 1). Apply for a credit card at a store. Most department stores offer credit cards with little or no background check and don't require applicants to have a job. Many young people and students begin developing their credit histories in this manner. The interest rates are usually higher than on bank cards. Limit your purchases to items that you really need. Many people, even those with good credit histories, hold department-store cards for emergency purposes. Video stores and other rental and service companies also offer cards that can help establish credit.
- 2). Obtain a secured card through your bank. Your "credit" limit will be tied to your bank account balance; you'll be limited to the money you have available. This isn't a true credit card, as no credit is being extended to you. But it's a good first step in establishing credit by paying your card balance on time each month.
- 3). Get a co-signer. Your parent or spouse can co-sign your application, provided she has a steady, verifiable income.
- 4). Complete and return any credit card application forms you receive in the mail. Read the terms and conditions carefully. Many letters will claim that you're pre-approved, but that claim usually is conditional on factors such as age, income and credit history. If you have no credit history or bad credit history, count on the interest rates to be very high. Answer any questions about employment honestly. Many such offers don't require a job for approval.
- 5). Ask your bank about a credit card if you have a savings or checking account and a good history (no bounced checks or overdrafts). They may be willing to extend a limited credit balance to a good customer. Direct deposit also helps.
- 6). Have your spouse's bank or credit-card company issue a second card. This is accomplished through the cardholder's requesting a card for you.
- 7). Inquire about a student credit card. If you're a student, you usually can get approved, especially if you can prove that you are receiving funds from a student loan. You still may need a co-signer, such as a parent.
- 8). Prove income from sources other than a job. Most credit-card companies aren't as concerned about employment as about income sources. If you have a trust, rental property income or other source of cash flow, include this on your application. It should suffice as a substitute for employment.
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