Applying for my first CC *Update - Approved for CSP*

[Anonymous]

Greetings!

I'm pretty new to the credit card scene and I am looking for some advice on whether or not I should apply for CSP as my first credit card. I am interested in CSP because of the travel rewards. My credit score is 683 (from creditkarma) and the only history I have was an auto loan which is now closed. Should  I try for CSP or a different CC? Thank you.

 Update 6/9/2016 - Received a letter from the fraud department, called and verified information. Approved 5k CL.

[Anonymous]

Are you over 21? If you are then try the Chase pre-approval site ( from what I understand, you need to be over 21 for pre-approvals to work). I hear Chase's pre-approval's are usually pretty accurate. 

Other than that, I'm not sure what Chase's requirements are for the CSP. I do think I've read that Chase likes thick credit files. 

[Anonymous]

I am not a Chase expert but I would assume they may want to see a bit of history on other cards before extending you credit. I have a super clean credit file with Zero baddies and 14 months AAoA and they keep telling me my accounts are too new. WHen I call recon they say exactly what I typed in the first sentence.

Other members who are far more knowledgeable may have better insight.

[Berk]

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@Anonymous wrote:

Greetings!

I'm pretty new to the credit card scene and I am looking for some advice on whether or not I should apply for CSP as my first credit card. I am interested in CSP because of the travel rewards. My credit score is 683 (from creditkarma) and the only history I have was an auto loan which is now closed. Should  I try for CSP or a different CC? Thank you.

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Then it isn't really 683. I would suggest obtaining an accurate credit report and then start researching on this site what lenders give what cards to people with good but thin files. Remember this - obtaining and then growing credit takes time, discipline, and patience. If you have those, you will do well.

Welcome to the forums by the way. So much good advice to be had here - you just have to be wiling to take it.

[Anonymous]

Perhaps Discover it? They seem to love fresh files.

My boyfriend was in the same exact position as you. The only thing at all on his credit was a car loan and he got an aproval for $1K after they called him on the phone to verify his address and he's already up to $3500 in 3 months.

[Anonymous]

I second the claim that Discover likes thin clean files - they gave me my first card with a $1500 limit (unsecured), which went up to $2000 after 6 months.

OP, if you are looking to get in with Chase though, perhaps try the Freedom? My impression while reading these boards is that Chase sometimes does not mind giving people the Freedom (albeit with a low limit) as their first card, but then they get really picky once you get other cards, and in most cases they want at least a year of history. I got in with Chase at 10 months, with a Freedom ($600 limit).

Of course, you could always try right away for the CSP (I thought I read somewhere here about someone getting that as their first card), but it will be a bit difficult, in my opinion.

[Anonymous]

Many options for you as you build.  Try the chase and cap one pre qualification screens.  While not guarenteed in an approval, they are 90% spot on.  Cap One is a great place to start, so is Discover.  

[thummel]

Chase will want to see some history before they give you a CSP. At least 1 year minimum with a credit card. It's actually one of there harder cards to get because of the 5K minimum credit line too. You would be better off trying for a discover or capital one or even mabye an Amex. Best of luck

[creditguy]

No offense but I'm pretty positive a CSP is not going to be your first card. This card is not for beginners. First thing to do is check your real Fico score and do not rely on CK fako scores. If your old enough check out some prequals first if not you will have to cold app. If so start with a beginner card like Discover although your file may be too thin for them, and Cap One, they are good for starting out and building some history. The CSP is a great card but that's like going from zero to sixty when you still have training wheels on. Good luck with your apps, the CSP will be there when your ready.

[Anonymous]

So... I got a bit impatient and applied last night before reading all the replies. I kinda wish I didn't now. I'll find out in a couple of days if it was good idea or not.