Credit Cards That Don’t Charge Interest

Credit cards that don’t charge interest — but still help you build credit — have carved out a niche in the market in recent years. Their built-in guardrails prevent debt or overspending and are typically best for credit beginners or second-chance seekers who can’t qualify for more traditional cards.
Of course, even with traditional cards that do have an annual percentage rate (APR), interest charges are avoidable if you pay off the balance in full every month. But when you’re just learning how to manage credit, that may be easier said than done. Credit cards with no APR don’t even allow you carry a balance, making it difficult to fall into a debt spiral.
But there’s usually a trade-off with these products: You may need to link a bank account, or pay a monthly fee that could end up being more expensive than interest. You may not get a very big credit limit, or you might face limits on where you can use the card. The card may not feature comprehensive credit reporting or may not offer an upgrade path. It might even be invite-only.
Depending on your circumstances, credit scores and spending habits, you may want to consider other options, such as a traditional secured credit card. But if you think you’d benefit from some credit-management training wheels, here are some credit cards that don’t charge interest.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Buzzy but less established cards from fintechs or startups can serve as steppingstones when your credit-building options are slim. But they’re also particularly prone to significant changes in terms and conditions as they find their place in the market. Keep that in mind as you peruse this list.
Cards that require a linked account
Current Build Card
The Current Build Card has no APR and charges an annual fee of $0 (see terms). There’s no credit check or minimum security deposit, and it reports to the three main credit bureaus. It’s also possible earn rewards with the card if you meet specific criteria.
You’ll need to open a Current account to get the card, and the money in that account serves as your security deposit and credit limit.
There is, however, no upgrade path to a better card from Current when you’re ready.
Varo Believe Secured Credit Card
The $0-annual-fee Varo Believe Secured Credit Card doesn’t charge interest, doesn’t require a credit check, and doesn’t have a minimum security deposit requirement. It reports to all the major credit bureaus, and it’s possible to earn limited rewards through card-linked offers with select merchants.
To be eligible for the Varo card, you must have a Varo account, which allows you to set the card’s credit limit. The account doesn’t charge a fee, but you’ll need to have received direct deposits of at least $200 in the past 31 days to qualify.
There’s no upgrade path.
Cred.ai Card
The $0-annual-fee Cred.ai Card (aka the