By Tim Maxwell
Edited by Peggy BennettHow to Apply for a Credit Card Without a Social Security Number
Quick Answer
It’s possible to apply for a credit card without a Social Security number, such as by using an ITIN or getting a secured card. Alternatively, you could become an authorized user to begin building credit.
Most major credit card companies require a Social Security number (SSN) to qualify for their credit cards. That can make it difficult to obtain a credit card for international students, recent immigrants and others without an SSN. And without a credit card, it's harder to build the credit history required to help you qualify for loans or even rent an apartment.
While most credit cards require a Social Security number, there are alternative options to consider. Here's what you need to know about getting approved for a credit card without an SSN.
1. Get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
Credit card companies require Social Security numbers because federal law requires them to verify the identity of applicants before approving them for a card. This helps ensure the person applying is who they say they are and reduces the risk of fraud and identity theft.
Some major credit card issuers, such as American Express and Capital One, will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in place of an SSN to help them satisfy this requirement. That means it's possible to qualify for a credit card without a Social Security number, as long as you have an ITIN.
ITINs are issued by the U.S. government to people who are not eligible for an SSN, such as noncitizens and spouses.
To get an ITIN, you'll complete IRS Form W-7, provide proof of your identity and foreign status, and submit your information along with your federal tax return to the IRS. You can also apply through an IRS-authorized Acceptance Agent (AA) or Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA).
If you don't file a federal tax return, check with the IRS Form W-7 instructions to see if you qualify for an ITIN under certain IRS exceptions, such as being a nonresident student, researcher or the spouse or dependent of someone studying or working in the U.S. on a temporary visa.
Tip: If you're a noncitizen, you may qualify for a Social Security number if you have a job that's allowed under Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations. For example, if you're an international student, you may be able to get an on-campus or off-campus job that meets the Social Security Administration requirements so you can get an SSN.
2. Meet the Card's Other Requirements
Even if a credit card accepts an ITIN instead of a Social Security number, you'll still need to meet the card issuer's eligibility criteria. Most cards require a minimum credit score, though some specialty cards may be an option if you're new to credit or don't yet have a score. Another option is to apply for a secured credit card to begin building your credit history (more on that in a moment).
When you apply, you'll need to provide some basic information, such as your full legal name, mailing address and date of birth. Card issuers will also look at your income to make sure you can afford the monthly payments. Be prepared to show proof of employment and income to verify your ability to make timely payments.
Learn more: How to Get a Credit Card if You Don't Have a Credit History
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3. Apply for a Secured Credit Card
If you're new to credit as well as new to the United States, consider applying for cards available to immigrants, such as certain secured credit cards. These cards can be easier to qualify for than other credit cards because they require a deposit, often equal to the card's credit limit. Secured credit cards are specifically designed for people with poor or limited credit history, so your credit is unlikely to hold you back from being approved for a secured credit card.
Many credit card issuers offer secured credit cards. You'll often need at least $200 to open a secured credit card account, but some issuers offer a lower threshold if you have good credit.
Learn more: How to Get a Secured Credit Card
4. Become an Authorized User
Another way to get a credit card without a Social Security number is to become an authorized user on a close friend's or relative's credit card account. You'll receive your own card to make purchases, but the primary cardholder is ultimately responsible for the bill.
To protect your relationship, it's a good idea to discuss account details ahead of time with the primary cardholder. For example, you'll want to iron out how you'll use the card and pay for charges. The primary cardholder may be comfortable adding your name to their account for credit reporting, but may prefer not to give you your own card or access to the number. If they do allow you to make charges on the card, some cards allow them to set a cap on your spending with the card.
Your information and account history will likely be reported to one or more of the three consumer credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion and Equifax), so it's critical to only become an authorized user on an account with someone who pays their bills on time and doesn't run up high balances. Their good credit habits can help you build a positive credit history. This could help you qualify for your own credit card later on, even if you don't have a SSN.
5. Consider Alternative Cards
Some specialty credit card issuers, such as Zolve and Tomo, focus on offering cards that don't require an SSN or credit history in the United States. Instead, your eligibility depends more on your residency and visa status, such as being a student or a working professional in the U.S. Others are specifically designed for international students and don't require an SSN or established credit; you can apply with your passport.
These cards can be a good starting point if you're new to credit in the U.S. and don't yet have an ITIN or established credit history. Many also report your payments to the major credit bureaus, which helps you start building a U.S. credit history.
6. Use Your Foreign Credit History
If you've built credit in another country, you may be able to use it to apply for a credit card in the U.S. Some card issuers consider a U.S. credit profile created by credit translation companies. These companies partner with credit bureaus in various countries and convert your foreign credit file into a U.S.-equivalent profile.
You'll still need to provide some personal information, such as your address, proof of income, employment details and other documentation the provider requires. If you don't have an SSN, you'll need an ITIN. The card issuer will evaluate your overall risk profile, not just your credit history, to decide whether to approve your application.
Learn more: Credit Building for Immigrants: A Step-by-Step Guide
Find Personalized Credit Card Offers Based on Your Credit Profile
It's possible to get a credit card without a Social Security number. You can either apply for one using an ITIN or explore other options like a secured card, becoming an authorized user or getting an alternative card for those without an SSN or U.S. credit history.
Once you begin building credit, you may be able to check your FICO® ScoreΘ and Experian credit report for free to see your progress. You can also use Experian to compare personalized credit card offers that fit your current situation.
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About the author
Tim Maxwell
Tim Maxwell is a former television news journalist turned personal finance writer and credit card expert with over two decades of media experience. His work has been published in Bankrate, Fox Business, Washington Post, USA Today, The Balance, MarketWatch and others. He is also the founder of the personal finance website Incomist.
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