The hardest credit card to get will always be your first card since you will have no credit history for a creditor to review and base a decision on. They’ll strictly look at your current income and give you a limit that’s small enough so that you won’t bankrupt yourself too quickly, but a lot of creditors aren’t willing to do that when there are so many other fish in the sea. So, where should you turn for your first credit card?

If you’re a student, I recommend the Citi mtvU Platinum Select Visa Card because it was designed specifically for college students. Since it is designed for college students, students with little or no credit history are more likely to be approved for that credit card so it makes a great starter card for someone without any credit. Not only do you get your first credit card but it will give you 5% in points at places like the movies, bookstores, and restaurants – places most other cards don’t offer cash back incentives. You also get points for getting good grades and paying bills on time, hopefully things you’ll do anyway. If you’re a student, don’t skip this card.

If you’re not a student, try applying for the Citi Platinum Select Card, it’s nothing special but worth a try. If you are rejected, consider getting a credit card from a gas station or a department store. They’re usually more relaxed in their credit history reviews because they typically come with low credit limits and so they’re easier to get. Once you get one, start buying small amounts and paying them off to demonstrate responsibility.

Once you get that first card though, watch out! Before you know it you’ll have a mailbox stuffed full of credit card applications and preapprovals!