Banks, credit unions, and online lenders all issue credit cards, but the route you take depends on your credit history and how quickly you need one

You can get a credit card from a traditional bank branch, an online bank, a credit union, or a card issuer that specializes in building credit. Each has different requirements and approval timelines. Banks and credit unions typically want to see an existing relationship or decent credit history. Online lenders and card issuers focused on first-time cardholders often accept people with no credit or poor credit, though they charge higher interest rates and lower credit limits.

The fastest route is usually an online application to an online bank or card issuer — you can submit one in minutes and get a decision the same day. A credit union or local bank branch may take longer but might offer better terms if you already have a savings account there. The slowest option is applying in person at a branch, which adds a few days to processing.

Key Takeaways

  • Banks, credit unions, and online card issuers each have different credit requirements — banks typically want good credit, while some online issuers accept people with no credit history.
  • Online applications usually produce a decision within hours or a day, while in-person applications at a branch can take several days to a week.
  • You will need a Social Security number, proof of income, and a current address to apply anywhere.
  • If you have no credit history or poor credit, look for cards specifically labeled for first-time cardholders or credit building rather than standard cards.
  • Credit unions sometimes offer better rates and terms to members, even those with limited credit history, so check whether you can join one in your area.

Getting a card from a traditional bank

Most national banks — Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank — issue credit cards online and in branches. They typically require a credit score of 650 or higher, though some cards are designed for people with scores in the 600 range. You will need a Social Security number, proof of income (a recent pay stub or tax return), and a current address.

If you already have a checking or savings account at the bank, approval is usually faster and the terms may be better. If you do not, you can still apply online, but the bank may ask you to open a deposit account first. Online applications usually get a decision within 24 hours. In-person applications at a branch take longer because the bank has to verify your information through their systems.

Banks also offer different card types: rewards cards (which require higher credit scores), cash-back cards, travel cards, and basic cards for people rebuilding credit. Read the terms carefully — some cards charge annual fees, and the interest rate depends on your credit score.

Getting a card from a credit union

Credit unions are member-owned financial institutions that often have looser credit requirements than banks. Many will issue a credit card to members with credit scores as low as 600, and some work with people who have no credit history at all. You have to be a member to get a card, but membership is often open to anyone in a certain geographic area or profession.

To join a credit union, you typically need to open a savings account with a small deposit — often $5 to $25. Once you are a member, you can apply for a credit card. Credit unions usually process applications within a few days. The interest rates and fees tend to be lower than at banks, especially if you have limited credit history.

You can find credit unions near you through the CO-OP network or Allpoint, which let you search by location or employer. Some credit unions also let you join online if you meet their membership criteria.

Getting a card from an online card issuer

Companies like Capital One, Discover, and Chime issue credit cards directly to consumers without requiring a bank account. Many of these issuers have cards specifically for people with no credit history or poor credit. They approve applications faster than banks — often within hours — and you can receive a virtual card number immediately to use online while you wait for the physical card.

Online issuers typically require a Social Security number, proof of income, and a current address, but they do not require an existing relationship with a bank. Interest rates are usually higher than at banks, and credit limits are lower, but these cards are designed to help you build credit if you use them responsibly and pay on time.

Some online issuers offer secured credit cards, which require you to put down a cash deposit (usually $200 to $2,500) that becomes your credit limit. After you make on-time payments for several months, the issuer may convert the card to an unsecured card and return your deposit.

Getting a card if you have no credit history

If you have never had a credit card or loan, you have no credit score yet. Banks will not issue you a standard card, but credit unions and online issuers will. Look for cards labeled "for first-time cardholders," "for building credit," or "for no credit history." Secured cards are also a common first step — you deposit money, and that amount becomes your credit limit.

Alternatively, you can ask someone with good credit to add you as an authorized user on their card. You do not have to use the card, but the account will show up on your credit report and help you build a score. After a few months of positive history, you may be able to get your own card from a bank or credit union.

Getting a card if you have poor credit

If your credit score is below 600 or you have missed payments, collections accounts, or a bankruptcy on your record, most banks will reject you. Credit unions and online issuers focused on credit building are your best options. Secured cards are especially common for people rebuilding credit — they let you demonstrate responsible use without the risk to the issuer.

Some online issuers will issue unsecured cards to people with poor credit, but the interest rates will be high (often 20% to 30%) and the credit limit will be low. If you use the card responsibly and make all payments on time, your credit score will improve over time, and you can eventually move to a card with better terms.

Before you apply, check your credit report at annualcreditreport.com (the only free, official source) to see what is on your record. If there are errors, dispute them before you apply — a corrected report can make a real difference in approval odds.

What you need to have ready before you apply

Regardless of where you apply, you will need the same basic information: your Social Security number, your date of birth, your current address, and proof of income. Proof of income can be a recent pay stub, a tax return from the past year, or a bank statement showing regular deposits. If you are self-employed or do not have a pay stub, a tax return works.

You will also need to know your employment status and employer name. If you are applying for a card at a bank or credit union where you already have an account, the process is faster because they already have your information on file.

Have your Social Security number memorized or written down — you will need to enter it during the application. Do not apply to multiple cards on the same day; each application creates a hard inquiry on your credit report, and multiple inquiries in a short time can lower your score.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get approved for a credit card?

Online applications usually get a decision within hours or a day. In-person applications at a bank or credit union branch take three to seven days. Once you are approved, the physical card arrives by mail in five to ten business days, though many issuers give you a virtual card number to use online immediately.

Can I get a credit card without a Social Security number?

No. All credit card issuers require a Social Security number to run a credit check and verify your identity. If you do not have one, you cannot get a credit card in the United States.

What is the difference between a secured and unsecured credit card?

A secured card requires you to put down a cash deposit that becomes your credit limit. An unsecured card does not require a deposit. Secured cards are easier to get if you have no credit or poor credit, and they help you build credit history. After several months of on-time payments, many issuers convert a secured card to unsecured and return your deposit.

Does applying for a credit card hurt my credit score?

Each application creates a hard inquiry, which can lower your score by a few points temporarily. Multiple applications in a short time have a bigger impact. The effect fades after a few months, and the benefit of building credit history usually outweighs the short-term dip.

Can I apply for a credit card online if I do not have a bank account?

Yes. Online card issuers and some credit unions do not require you to have a bank account. You only need a Social Security number, proof of income, and a current address. Some issuers may ask you to set up direct deposit or a bank account later for billing purposes, but you can apply without one.