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Credit cards are confusing when you're not used to how they work and who's eligible for them and a popular topic among young kids applying for cards is if there are cards actually designed for high school students. While there are exceptions, there are cards actually built for a high school student. I'll show you exactly how you can get one and what you have to do to get one.
The first thing that you want to be sure of is that you're at least 18 years of age. If you're under this age, you're not going to be able to get your own card. You can always use your parent's card but this will defeat the purpose of signing up for your own card and building your own credit. While most parents won't allow their kids to use their card (I don't blame them), some do but you as I already said, you won't want to do this because of the responsibility and building your own credit.
What kind of card do I apply for?
If you're 18, I'm hoping you're a senior in high school. If you plan on attending college in the fall, you'll be eligible for a student credit card. These cards are designed for those that are going to college. In order to get a card like this, you will have to verify your college address as well as the college itself. As long as it's an accredited college and it's legit, you won't have a problem getting a card like this.
If you're not going to attend college or you don't know yet, you will probably want to head for a regular credit card. When you look at the major card companies, make sure that you get a card that only requires a limited credit history. You'll be able to find out about this when you fill out the application. On the application or the page before you get onto the application, it will usually tell you exactly what kind of credit history you will need.
If you find that you can't get a regular credit card, there are other alternatives that you can take in order to start building your credit. High school kids have had luck with getting a department store card, a secured card and even a prepaid card. While some of these cards will have higher fees, I would recommend that you look into finding that regular card first because they won't have any fees at all. Remember, sooner or later you'll be able to find a card that will suit your needs and this is why it's important that you should go to college because college students will have an easier time getting a credit card compared to those not attending college.
Credit cards are great to build your credit history so that you can build your credit score and get loans in the future but you just have to remember a few things before you use your card. Always pay it off in time and never spend above your head. If you can do this, you'll be 100% fine.
by Tom Tessin