How to Get a Credit Card Without an SSN

While a Social Security Number (SSN) is a common identifier for credit card applications in the United States, its absence does not preclude individuals from accessing financial products. Many financial institutions have pathways for those without an SSN to establish credit, often relying on alternative identification methods. Understanding these options can help individuals navigate the process of obtaining a credit card and building a credit history.

Obtaining an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but do not have, and are not eligible to obtain, an SSN. This nine-digit number helps the IRS process tax returns and payments from those without an SSN. Financial institutions often accept an ITIN as an alternative identifier for reporting credit activity to major credit bureaus.

An ITIN is available to resident and nonresident aliens and their dependents or spouses who need to file U.S. tax returns but are not eligible for an SSN. It begins with the number 9 and has a format similar to an SSN (9XX-XX-XXXX).

To apply for an ITIN, individuals must complete IRS Form W-7. This form requires specific documentation to prove foreign status and identity. A valid passport is often the most straightforward document, serving as proof of both identity and foreign status. Other acceptable documents include national identity cards, foreign driver’s licenses, U.S. visas, or birth certificates for dependents. All submitted documents must be either originals or certified copies from the issuing agency; notarized copies are generally not accepted.

Form W-7 must be submitted along with a U.S. federal income tax return, unless an exception applies. There are three ways to submit an ITIN application: by mail directly to the IRS, in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC), or through an IRS-authorized Acceptance Agent. Mailing the application requires sending original documents or certified copies to the IRS. Applying in person at a TAC allows for on-site document verification.

Using an IRS-authorized Acceptance Agent is another convenient option, as these agents can verify original documents, meaning applicants do not need to mail their original documents to the IRS. The agent sends certified copies to the IRS along with the application. After submission, the IRS takes 7 to 11 weeks to process an ITIN application. If an applicant does not receive notification within this timeframe, they can contact the IRS to inquire about the status.

Secured Credit Cards and Other Card Options

Secured credit cards offer a pathway to building a credit history, especially for individuals without an SSN or an established credit file. Unlike traditional credit cards, a secured card requires a cash deposit as collateral, which sets the credit limit. For instance, a $500 deposit results in a $500 credit limit. This deposit minimizes lender risk, making these cards accessible to a broader range of applicants.

Secured cards are beneficial for those without an SSN because many financial institutions accept an ITIN or other forms of identification. This allows individuals to demonstrate responsible financial behavior, as on-time payments and low credit utilization are reported to major credit bureaus. This reporting helps build a positive credit history, which can eventually lead to qualifying for unsecured credit products. Requirements for applying for a secured card include proof of identity, such as a foreign passport or other government-issued ID, and proof of address.

When applying, individuals will need to provide their ITIN in the SSN field on the application form. Some banks cater to non-SSN applicants and may have tailored application processes, either online or in person. After approval, the security deposit must be made to activate the credit line. It is important to confirm with the financial institution that they report account activity to all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to ensure credit-building efforts are fully recognized.

Beyond secured cards, other options are available for individuals without an SSN. Certain student credit cards might accept an ITIN or foreign student identification documents like an I-20 form and visa. Their availability for non-SSN holders varies significantly by issuer. Some banks with international branches or those specializing in serving immigrant communities may offer specific credit products with different identification requirements, often accepting ITINs or foreign government-issued IDs.

Building Credit Without a Traditional Card

Establishing a credit history does not solely depend on obtaining a traditional or secured credit card; alternative methods can also contribute to a strong financial profile. One effective strategy is to become an authorized user on another person’s credit card account. As an authorized user, the primary cardholder’s positive payment history can be reflected on your credit report, helping to build your credit score without needing an SSN. Only your name and date of birth are required for this status, though some issuers may ask for an ITIN.

Credit builder loans offer another structured way to establish credit. With this type of loan, the borrowed amount is held in a savings account or certificate of deposit (CD) by the lender and is not accessible to the borrower until the loan is fully repaid. The borrower makes regular, on-time payments over a set period, and these payments are reported to credit bureaus. Once the loan is paid off, the funds are released to the borrower. Many credit unions and community banks offer credit builder loans, and some are equipped to process applications using an ITIN or other accepted forms of identification.

Services that report on-time rent and utility payments to credit bureaus can also help build a credit history. Traditionally, these payments do not impact credit scores, but third-party services can collect and report this data. This allows individuals to demonstrate creditworthiness through consistent payment behavior for essential services. While helpful, not all lenders consider these reported payments in the same way as traditional credit accounts.

Prepaid debit cards can be useful for budgeting and spending, but they do not contribute to building a credit history. These cards operate by loading funds onto them in advance and do not involve borrowing. Consistently making all payments on time is crucial. A history of timely payments across any financial obligation, whether an authorized user account, a credit builder loan, or reported rent payments, forms the foundation of a strong credit profile.