How to Get a Credit Card Without an SSN

Yes, you can

Several major banks accept an ITIN — an IRS tax ID for people who file taxes but aren't eligible for an SSN — in place of a Social Security number on a card application.

The bureaus don't need an SSN to build your file; they match on name, date of birth, and address. Once a bank reports your account, you're building U.S. credit — the foundation for renting, financing a car, or qualifying for better cards later.

Which banks accept an ITIN

Policies change, but as of early 2026 these issuers accept ITIN applications on at least some cards:

• Bank of AmericaITIN on most consumer cards — the Customized Cash Rewards is a popular start.
• Capital OneFriendly to limited/no U.S. history; the Quicksilver Secured is a common entry point.
• CitiITIN on many products; Citi Double Cash is a solid flat-rate start.
• American ExpressITIN on some cards (e.g. Blue Cash Everyday) — may want an existing relationship or income docs.
• DeserveA fintech aimed at international students and immigrants — no SSN or credit history required.
• Nova CreditNot a bank — translates your foreign credit history into a U.S. report, so you can apply on it.

Local credit unions often accept ITINs too — if you already bank with one, ask there first, since an existing relationship improves your odds.

How to get an ITIN

No ITIN yet? File IRS Form W-7:

1. 1Complete Form W-7. From irs.gov — state your reason (for most people, "filing a U.S. tax return").
2. 2Attach a tax return. Usually you file W-7 with a federal return (Form 1040). Some treaty/income cases are exceptions.
3. 3Provide identity documents. A valid passport, or a combination (national ID, birth certificate, visa) — the W-7 instructions list what counts.
4. 4Submit it. Mail it, go to an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, or use a Certified Acceptance Agent so you don’t mail originals.
5. 5Wait. Processing usually takes 7–11 weeks; longer during tax season.

An ITIN doesn't expire as long as you use it on a return once every three years. Keep the assignment letter — some banks ask to see it.

Applying with an ITIN

1. 1Open a U.S. bank account first. It establishes a relationship and puts a U.S. address on file.
2. 2Confirm the card takes ITIN applicants. Check the application or call. Our /start-here/no-ssn page lists specific cards.
3. 3Gather documents. ITIN (or assignment letter), passport/ID, proof of address (utility bill, bank statement), and proof of income.
4. 4Apply online or in branch. Some forms accept the ITIN in the SSN field; if it’s rejected online, call or visit a branch.
5. 5Start secured if needed. With no U.S. history, a secured card (refundable deposit) is the easiest approval — most upgrade you and refund the deposit after 6–12 months of on-time payments.

What about no-SSN, no-ITIN cards?

Some fintechs offer debit-like or charge products that need no tax ID — fine for daily spending, but most don't report to the bureaus, so they won't build a score. If the goal is credit, pick something that reports to at least one bureau. A secured card that accepts an ITIN is almost always the better long-term move.

Newcomer tips

• •Pay in full every month. Carrying a balance doesn’t help your score — it just costs interest.
• •Keep utilization under 30%. On a $500 limit, stay under $150 at any point in the cycle.
• •Don’t apply for several at once. Each application is a hard inquiry; too many in a short window lowers your score.
• •Autopay the minimum. One missed payment can set you back months.
• •Be patient. A FICO score takes ~6 months of activity; after 12, you’ll qualify for better cards.