14 Jan Should my college student get a credit card?

Q. My college student is thinking about getting a store credit card to benefit from extra coupons. They don’t have any other credit except for student loans. They don’t have a job, so I figure if they are approved, it won’t be for much. Is this a good idea or is there a better way for them to build credit?
— Mom

A. We’re glad you’re asking.

New credit users often get in over their heads.

A store credit card can help build credit, said Bill Connington of Connington Wealth Management in Fairfield.

But, he said, for a college student with no income? It’s usually not the best idea.

“A student credit card, secured card, or being added as an authorized user on a parent’s card, is generally a safer and more effective way to build credit,” he said.

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This story was originally published in January 2026. 

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