If you're an international student, a new immigrant, or a noncitizen arriving in the U.S., applying for a credit card might seem challenging, particularly without a Social Security Number (SSN). You might have found yourself giving up trying the moment the application form asks for an SSN. Not having an SSN can be a significant roadblock when you apply for credit cards, as most issuers require this information. However, not having one doesn't mean you're locked out of the credit system. The good news is that there are card options available to you even if you don’t have an SSN.In this article, we'll explore why credit card issuers typically require an SSN, how you can get a credit card without an SSN, and steps you can take to build your credit, regardless of your SSN status.

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What is a Social Security Number (SSN)?

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit identifier issued by the Social Security Administration to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible non-residents. This number follows an individual throughout their life and is crucial for tracking taxes, determining eligibility for government benefits, verifying identity, and keeping track of lifetime earnings.

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Why do most credit card issuers require a Social Security Number (SSN)?

According to the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001, financial institutions are required to confirm the identity of individuals applying for new accounts. An SSN offers a secure and verifiable way for financial institutions to confirm an individual’s identity and credit history. Additionally, credit issuers often use your credit history to decide whether to approve you for a new credit card and what credit limit and interest rate they would offer to you. Banks commonly use SSNs to access your credit history. Thus, most banks and credit card issuers require that you share your SSN as part of the application process.

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Can I Get a Credit Card Without an SSN?

Yes, it's possible to get a credit card without an SSN. While the process might be more challenging, certain options are designed to accommodate individuals who don’t have an SSN. Let's dive into how you can get a credit card without an SSN.

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How to Get a Credit Card Without an SSN

Get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

One option for individuals who are not eligible for an SSN is to get an individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks and credit card issuers such as Firstcard accept ITINs as an alternative to SSNs. Applying for an ITIN and then using it to apply for a credit card can be a viable path for individuals without an SSN. An ITIN is a nine-digit tax processing number that always begins with the number 9 and is formatted like an SSN (for example, 9xx-xx-xxxx). The IRS designed the ITIN for tax payment purposes and for individuals who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN). Since there are situations where non-residents might also be required to file a tax return in the US, ITINs are available to both residents and non-residents in the US. To obtain an ITIN, you need to complete Form W-7, attach it to your federal tax return and mail them to the IRS. You must also provide proof of your identity and foreign status through original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency, such as a passport or driver's license. The processing time can take 6 to 10 weeks. Keep in mind that unlike an SSN, which is valid for life, an ITIN requires you to file your federal income tax at least once every three years to maintain its validity.

Become an Authorized User

Being added as an authorized user to someone else's credit card account can help you build credit, even without an SSN. The account holder's credit activity will be reported to your credit history, positively affecting your credit score as long as the account is managed well.Some credit card companies do not require a Social Security Number (SSN) for adding authorized users to a primary credit card account. If a trusted friend or relative is willing to add you as an extra user on their credit card, it provides an opportunity for you to open up a credit card without an SSN and begin building your credit history.

Get Secured Credit Cards

Secured credit cards are designed for individuals looking to build or rebuild their credit. They typically require a security deposit that serves as your credit limit. Since the risk to the issuer is minimized by the deposit, many secured card providers are easier with their application requirements. Some secured credit card providers such as Firstcard may not require an SSN if you have an ITIN or passport.

Open a Bank Account

Opening a bank account can sometimes pave the way for getting a credit card without an SSN. Some banks are willing to offer credit products to their existing customers even if they don’t have an SSN, especially if you have a good banking history with them.

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Build Your Credit, with or without a Social Security Number

Often, an alternative identification isn’t enough to be automatically approved for a credit card. It’s still important to build your credit score regardless of your SSN and ITIN status. That’s because you will have a record of your credit history regardless of SSN or ITIN. That said, even without a Social Security number, credit bureaus can access your credit history using personal details like name, address, and date of birth. Thus, it’s crucial to start building your credit score early. To build a good credit score, you will need to make purchases and pay your balances on time every month. Here is an ultimate guide on how to build credit score early. Your credit score will be generated after approximately six months of credit activity. Having a credit score opens up access to a broader selection of credit cards.

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Final thoughts

Starting a new life in the U.S. presents its set of challenges, particularly in establishing credit without a Social Security Number (SSN). However, lacking an SSN doesn't mean you're excluded from obtaining a credit card and beginning to build your credit history. Many credit card issuers such as Firstcard accept alternative forms of identification from non-U.S. citizens, such as an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a government-issued passport.You can have a credit history and credit scores in the U.S. regardless of whether you have an SSN or are a U.S. citizen because the major credit bureaus don’t require an SSN to create your credit history. Thus, it's very important to build a good credit history regardless your SSN status.