Guide to Applying for a Credit Card With an ITIN

When new residents arrive in the U.S., getting a credit card can be a top priority. However, most credit card issuers will ask for the applicant's Social Security number (SSN). That’s a problem for foreign nationals who don’t yet have legal permanent residence. 

But there are some card issuers that will accept an alternative identification number called an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Here’s what you need to know about getting a credit card without an SSN.

Key Points 

• Foreign nationals can use an ITIN instead of an SSN to apply for a credit card.

• Different credit cards have different requirements when it comes to identification via SSN or ITIN.

• It’s possible to obtain a small business credit card without an SSN.

• Students without a recognized credit history can still apply for a credit card with an ITIN.

• Major card issuers such as Chase, Capital One, and American Express accept ITINs for certain cards.

What Is an SSN?

Nearly all U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents are assigned an SSN. The original purpose of an SSN was for the Social Security Administration to track Americans’ work history and to offer retirement and disability benefits. In fact, the Social Security program dates back to the 1930s, when many seniors were unable to afford necessities. Today, banks and other credit card issuers use SSNs to identify customers and match them with their credit reports.

What Is an ITIN?

An ITIN is used by nonresident aliens (foreign nationals). For example, you can get an ITIN if you’re a foreign student studying in the U.S., even if you don’t qualify for an SSN.

The ITIN has the same 9-digit format as an SSN and is designed to be used to identify those who pay U.S. taxes. There are some financial institutions that will accept an ITIN instead of an SSN.

Getting an ITIN

To receive an ITIN, you must apply to the IRS using Form W-7, which is the IRS Application for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. This form asks you to provide documents that verify your foreign or alien status as well as your true identity. You must then submit this form and the accompanying information to the IRS by mail or in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.

Factors to Consider When Getting a Credit Card Without SSN

There are two ways to get a credit card without an SSN: 

• Apply for a card that doesn’t require it. Wells Fargo, Chase, and Capital One all offer cards that do not require an SSN.

• Use an ITIN instead of an SSN. Getting a credit card with an ITIN means you’ll have fewer cards to choose from, but more than you would have otherwise. Just know that you may be less likely to be approved with an ITIN than you would with an SSN. The key is to know the credit card’s requirements before applying for a credit card.

Recommended: Applying for a Credit Card: Tips to Get Approved 

Guide to Getting a Credit Card Without a Social Security Number

Some card issuers allow you to add an authorized user on a credit card without an SSN. That means you join their account and use the credit card. Requirements vary, however, so check with the credit card company.

Getting a Business Credit Card Without a Social Security Number

If you are a small business owner who doesn’t have an SSN, then there are still ways to get a small business credit card. You can apply for a small business credit card from a card issuer that accepts an ITIN instead of an SSN. 

Guide to Applying for a Business Credit Card With an ITIN

Just as some issuers allow you to apply for a consumer credit card with an ITIN, you may also be able to apply for a small business credit card this way, too. As with consumer cards, just use your ITIN instead of your SSN. You’ll also need to use an Employer Identification Number to identify your business. And of course, it’s important to compare credit cards and to choose the best one for your needs before applying.

Cards to Be Considered When Getting a Credit Card With ITIN

While not all credit card issuers will allow you to use an ITIN instead of an SSN, these major card issuers do:

• American Express

• Bank of America

• Capital One

• Chase

• Citi

Secured Cards

Secured credit cards require a security deposit that acts as collateral. These card issuers will accept applications with an ITIN, but only for select secured cards:

• TD Bank

• U.S. Bank

Student Cards

There are several credit card issuers that offer student credit cards to applicants with an ITIN, including Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, and Discover. Student cards work just like other credit cards, but they are designed for young adults who don’t have an established credit history and are generally enrolled in a college or university. 

For many young adults, including students, it’s a good idea to learn at what age to get a credit card.

Submitting Your Application

When applying for a credit card with an ITIN, simply use that number instead of an SSN. It’s also best to have a U.S. mailing address. Otherwise, fill out the application as best you can, making sure to provide accurate information. 

The credit card application process, like other credit card terminologies, is an important part of how credit cards work. 

The Takeaway

Just because you don’t have an SSN, it doesn’t mean that you can’t get a credit card. By obtaining an ITIN and applying for cards that don’t require an SSN, you can choose from some of the top credit cards that are available to American citizens and permanent residents who don’t have an SSN.