Can I get a credit card without a bank account?
Short answer
Getting a credit card without a bank account is hard. Capital One lists checking or savings account information among what it requires to apply, and its secured card deposit must come from a bank account. Paying a card without one is easier. Capital One takes money orders by mail and may take cash at its locations.
By Alex Thomas · Founder of ITIN Club
Updated
Where a bank account comes in
Capital One is a useful example because it takes ITIN applicants and publishes its rules. Here's each step and what it needs.
| Step | Without a bank account |
|---|---|
| Applying | Its card FAQ lists checking and/or savings account information among what you must provide |
| Secured card deposit | Not possible. The Platinum Secured deposit must come by electronic transfer from a bank account. Cash, checks and other transfer methods aren't accepted |
| Paying the bill by mail | A money order works. It counts on the date Capital One receives it, not the postmark |
| Paying in person | You may be able to pay with cash at a Capital One location |
| Paying with another card | Not allowed |
So the card itself doesn't run on a bank account, but getting a first card, especially a secured one, does.
The easier route: a basic account first
- 1
Open a low-cost checking account
Bank On certified accounts open with $25 or less and charge no overdraft fees. See what it costs to open one.
- 2
Fund your secured card deposit from it
For the Platinum Secured, the minimum is $49, $99 or $200, depending on your approval, for a starting limit of at least $200.
- 3
Set up autopay
Capital One's autopay can pay the minimum, the statement balance or a fixed amount from your bank account every month, so you don't miss a due date.
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