Here's How to Get a Credit Card Without a Social Security Number

Credit card companies often require you to provide a Social Security number (SSN) before reviewing your application. But if you don't have these unique nine-digits, don't sweat it -- there's another way to get a new credit card without one. Here's how.

Apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax-filing purposes. The IRS gives these numbers to individuals who need to file taxes in the U.S. but don't have an SSN, such as immigrants (documented or undocumented) and U.S. citizens living under witness protection.

Many major credit card providers, such as American Express, Capital One, and Chase, will accept an ITIN in place of an SSN. They might ask for more proof of your identity, such as a picture of your passport, or require you to apply in person. But so long as your ITIN is still valid (they usually last three years), this number can help you get a credit card.

To be sure, not all credit card providers will let you substitute an SSN for an ITIN, and even those that do won't accept it for every card. But if you qualify for an ITIN, you might be eligible for one the following:

• American Express® Gold Card
• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
• Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
• Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited®
• Petal® 2 "Cash Back, No Fees" Visa® Credit Card
• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

What if you don't have a credit history in the U.S.?

Many of the cards listed above require you to have good to excellent credit. But if you only recently moved to the U.S. or you've never built credit here, your credit card provider may not have much history to pull. In this case, your options will be limited, but don't worry -- you still have options.

You could apply for secured credit cards, such as the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card. These cards require an up-front deposit, such as $1,000, which usually matches the card's credit limits. If you default on the card, your card provider will use this deposit to pay off your balance. But if you pay off what you borrow and never miss payments, you'll build your credit score.

You could also become an authorized user on someone else's credit card. As an authorized user, you can build credit even if the credit card account isn't in your name. You just have to find someone who trusts you enough to put you on their credit card account, then pay them what you borrow.

In sum, it's not impossible to get a credit card without an SSN, though it might take a bit more work. When you finally do get a credit card, however, be sure to practice good borrowing habits, such as paying bills on time and never charging more than you can pay. Over time, you'll build your credit score, which could help you apply for more lucrative cash back credit cards.