Your first credit card: video transcript

When choosing your first credit card, the best way to find one that suits you is to ask yourself what exactly you need a credit card for. 

If you want to build your credit score, credit-builder cards allow you to build up your credit history and are aimed at those who have no credit history or a  poor credit history, because they've previously struggled with debts. They come with low credit limits, typically up to just a few hundred pounds, and higher than standard interest rates. 

If you need to make a big purchase, purchase cards give a low or 0% interest rate for an introductory period, which can help spread the cost of making purchases by giving you longer to pay it off. This can be particularly useful for one-off expensive purchases, such as a new washing machine or boiler, for example, but the money will need to be paid back eventually. 

If you want to earn rewards when you spend, reward cards offer incentives such as cashback, shopping points, or air miles when you use the card, so make sure the rewards are going to be useful for you when you sign up. 

If you want to spend abroad without incurring non-sterling transaction fees and protect purchases when travelling, travel credit cards can help you keep down the cost of spending abroad by offering features such as fee-free purchases and more favourable exchange rates. 

Credit cards are handy, but can lead to debt problems if misused which could make it difficult to borrow in the future. You should consider a card’s interest rate, credit limits, minimum repayments, and fees before applying. 

It’s quick and easy to apply for your first credit card , just tell us a little about yourself and your finances, including your income, employment status, and what you want to use the card for, and we’ll give you a list of options tailored to your needs. 

Our free eligibility checker will show you how likely you are to be accepted if you apply for a particular deal. Then all you have to do is pick the card you want and click through to the provider to finalise your application.