- 1.5%Cash back on all purchases
Earn a $25 statement credit when you sign up for automatic payments within the first three months of opening your account.
Earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
25.49% Variable APR
The Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card stands out as the top choice because it offers a simple and effective way for newcomers to build credit while earning cash back on every purchase. With no annual fee and a straightforward 1.5% cash back on all purchases, it provides a solid foundation for those starting their credit journey.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Straightforward rewards structure
Cons:
- High variable APR
- Limited rewards categories
- 1.5%Cash back on eligible purchases after 12 months of on-time payments
- 1%Cash back on all purchases
N/A
Earn 1% cash back on everyday purchases immediately, which can increase to 1.5% after 12 consecutive on-time monthly payments.
28.24%-33.24%
What sets the Petal® 2 Cash Back, No Fees Visa® Credit Card apart is its commitment to no fees and a straightforward rewards structure that grows with responsible use. This card is particularly appealing for those looking to build credit without the burden of annual fees or hidden costs.
Pros:
- No fees whatsoever
- Rewards increase with responsible use
Cons:
- Higher APR
- Limited cash back categories
- 1.5%Cash back on rotating categories with direct deposit
N/A
Earn 1.5% cash back on rotating categories with direct deposit.
0%
The standout feature here is the Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card's focus on helping users build credit without the burden of fees or interest. While it may not offer traditional rewards, it provides a unique opportunity for financial growth through responsible use.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Helps build credit
Cons:
- No traditional rewards
- Limited cash back features
4.Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
Capital One
- No rewards breakdown available
N/A
No rewards or cash back.
28.99%
This card shines for its ability to help individuals with bad or no credit build their score through responsible use. While it lacks rewards, the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card offers a clear path to improving creditworthiness and potentially upgrading to an unsecured card.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Path to unsecured credit
Cons:
- High APR
- No rewards
5.Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Discover
- 2%Cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 combined quarterly
- 1%Cash back on all other purchases
N/A
Earn 1% cash back on all purchases, plus 2% back at gas stations and restaurants (on up to $1,000 combined quarterly).
26.49%
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is a top choice for those looking to build credit while earning rewards. With a solid cash back structure and no annual fee, it provides an excellent balance of benefits for new credit users.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Good rewards for a secured card
Cons:
- High APR
- Requires a security deposit
6.Discover it® Student Cash Back
Discover
- 5%Cash back on rotating quarterly categories
- 1%Cash back on all other purchases
N/A
Earn 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories and 1% on all other purchases.
0%-25.49%
The Discover it® Student Cash Back card earns the #1 spot due to its impressive 5% cash back on rotating categories, making it ideal for students who want to maximize their rewards while building credit. The automatic first-year Cashback Match further enhances its value, effectively doubling rewards.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- High cash back on categories
Cons:
- Requires activation for bonus categories
- Variable APR
7.Discover it® Student Chrome
Discover
- 2%Cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 combined quarterly
- 1%Cash back on all other purchases
N/A
Earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (on up to $1,000 combined purchases per quarter) and 1% on everything else.
0%-25.49%
The Discover it® Student Chrome card shines for its focus on cash back in essential categories like gas and dining, making it a great choice for students who frequently spend in these areas. The first-year Cashback Match doubles the rewards, enhancing its appeal.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Good rewards for dining and gas
Cons:
- Requires activation for bonus categories
- Variable APR
8.Zolve Classic Credit Card
Zolve
- 8%Cash back on groceries for the first 3 months
- 4%Cash back on digital payments
- 1%Cash back on all other purchases
N/A
Earn 1% unlimited cashback on all purchases, with higher rates on specific categories like groceries (4%) and digital payments (2%).
16%-39.5%
The Zolve Classic Credit Card is particularly appealing for those looking to build credit without an SSN, offering a straightforward rewards structure with no annual fee. Its potential for high cashback in essential categories makes it a strong contender for everyday spending.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- High credit limit potential
Cons:
- Variable APR
- Limited information on rewards
Final Words
As you embark on your journey to build credit with a starter card, remember to evaluate your options carefully based on rewards, fees, and terms that suit your financial goals. Take time to compare the best starter credit cards available this January 2026, and make informed decisions that will set a strong foundation for your credit future.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card offers a welcome bonus of Earn a $25 statement credit when you sign up for automatic payments within the first three months of opening your account.
With the Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card, you earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases. This straightforward rewards structure makes it a great option for those starting out with credit.
No, the Petal® 2 Cash Back, No Fees Visa® Credit Card does not offer a welcome bonus. However, it allows you to earn 1% cash back on everyday purchases immediately, which can increase to 1.5% after 12 consecutive on-time monthly payments.
The Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card allows you to earn 1.5% cash back on rotating categories with direct deposit. This card is ideal for building credit while also earning rewards.
When selecting a starter credit card, consider factors such as annual fees, interest rates, and rewards programs. Look for cards that offer no annual fees and rewards that align with your spending habits to maximize benefits.
Yes, many credit cards are designed specifically for individuals with no credit history. Look for cards that offer beginner-friendly features, such as no annual fees and cashback rewards, to help you build your credit profile.
The application process for a starter credit card typically involves filling out an online form with your personal information, including income and employment details. Once submitted, the issuer will review your application and notify you of the decision, usually within a few minutes.
