Writer: Linsey Knerl
Editor: Lillian Guevara-Castro
Reviewer: Ashley Fricker
Capital One is a leading credit card company with a wide range of cards, so determining the best Capital One card for a beginner largely depends on the individual’s unique circumstances.
Establishing a healthy credit history is one of the best first steps a young adult can take to building a secure financial future. Choosing the best card, however, is not always easy, especially when not all cards are created to be friendly to first-time cardholders.
We’ve broken down some of the top choices for beginners available from Capital One, along with advice for getting the best bang for your borrowed buck.
1. Best Card for Students
Marketed as a solution for students and young adults, this card not only provides a standard cash-back rate even for those with a limited credit reputation, but it also offers a small sign-up bonus.
Over time, you may receive a higher credit limit, and there is never an annual fee for this card. Like most Capital One cards, it has fraud protection that covers unauthorized purchases and access to your credit score via the Capital One Credit Tracker service.
2. Best All-Around Card for Everyday Use
The Capital One Platinum Credit Card is ideal for consumers who want to build credit without paying a high annual fee.
The flexible payment options allow you to access your account online, at a bank branch, or via the intuitive mobile smartphone app. Capital One’s signature Tracker service and fraud protection are standard for this card, as well.
3. Best Card for Those Who Love Perks
The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card lives up to its reputation as a seamless way to get rewarded for your purchases. This card also totes extra-special perks like an intro-APR deal and no annual fee.
You won’t have to remember to “sign up” for your reward categories, either; cardholders earn cash-back rewards on every purchase without special action required. Rewards never expire and can be redeemed for cash back at any time.
Your First Capital One Card
Getting your new card is just the beginning of a lifetime of new but exciting responsibility. We recommend that you always do the following when using your credit card:
- Beware of interest rates. Pay special attention to purchase and balance transfer offers that may come your way when opening a card. While some offers may promise low or no interest, the fees for such transfers may be too high to justify the offer.
- Pay off balances. Pay your card in full each month to avoid finance charges and possible late fees. If you do find yourself missing a payment, contact your creditor immediately to arrange for payment. Many cards will give you a day or two grace period before the default rate or late charges are incurred.
- Don’t do the minimum. Always pay more than the minimum. If you are unable to pay in full, try to pay as much as you can. Interest accumulates quickly!
All of the Capital One starter credit cards featured in this list are easy to manage and make a great first step into the world of responsible consumer credit use.
Editorial Note: Our site content is not provided or commissioned by any credit card issuer(s). Opinions expressed on CardRates.com are the author's alone, not those of any credit card issuer, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by credit card issuers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information; however, all credit card offer details, including information about rewards, signup bonuses, introductory offers, and other terms and conditions, is presented without warranty. Clicking on any offer on CardRates.com will direct you to the issuer's website, where you can review the current terms and conditions of the offer.
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