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starting out on the credit card ladder

I'm finally going to start working later this month and I'm wondering when I should start applying for a credit card. So far I've been financially very inactive (no earned income, nor debts) and don't have such a clear history as I've been resident in this country for a rather short time. I've tried applying for credit cards before a few times unsuccessfully, while I was studying. Before I apply again should I wait for:

-at least the first paycheck to be paid into my account

-for my national insurance number to be allocated (I can't go onto the electoral roll as I'm French and wouldn't have much other proof of permanent residence)

I did have a credit card with Lloyds TSB, apparently issued with much less fuss as I had a student account with them. After it expired I wasn't allowed to reapply for one. For my next card, I'm not too interested in APR as I pay it off right away. Interest-free period welcome, will start shopping for cashback/reward cards when I've more credit history to speak of.

Seb

Reply to
silicono2
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Will you be paying council tax?

Contact them again as you have a history with them.

Reply to
mogga

[snip]

No, I'm sharing and house bills are all included, made out and paid in landlord's name. I guess it's a minor complication? Should I talk to my bank who will walk me through it and provide me with a suitable one of their credit cards?

Seb

Reply to
silicono2

It might be more expensive if you don't pay it all back each month

*and read all the charges for cash ect* but it'll be an easier start perhaps than trying to get accepted with another to start with. Once you've had the card 6-12 months you might find it easier to get another although why would you want to if you're being responsible with money? :)
Reply to
mogga

Better rewards, interest-free periods, etc when you have a new card. Too bad the loophole needed for rate tarting is closed as balance transfers attract some kind of charge, and you should apply too willy nilly anyway or it also hurts your credit score even if you're otherwise clean.

Seb

Reply to
silicono2

Salut Seb,

snipped-for-privacy@yahoo.com wrote in uk.finance about: starting out on the credit card ladder

As an EU citizen you can of course vote in Local Authority, European Parliament [1], and (if applicable) Scottish Parliament (presumably also either Welsh or Northern Irish Assembly if similarly applicable?) elections, so, yes, make sure you are on the Electoral Register as this will undoubtedly help your applications. Moving to another EU member state does not disenfranchise you of your political rights! You can contact your local Electoral Registration Officer to be added at any time, you do not have to wait for the annual review in October.

[1] If an EU citizen regards themself ordinarily as a permanent resident of their home country, I believe it is possible to register to vote in European Parliament elections at your permanent home location (eg, by post), instead of your current location. But not both, of course!

See:

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for more information.

If you're not interested in making use of the credit facility of a credit card, you may find it easier to ask your bank to issue you with a Visa Debit card where payments are made directly from your current account.

Reply to
David M

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