First credit card in ages...which one?

Pinklepurr

A bit of background first.... I got my first credit card (at 18) with Barclaycard and stayed with them for over 10 years whilst I was working full time. I then started a family and have not worked for 8 years whilst raising them. I have a joint mortgage, joint bank account etc, but all other credit over the years has been solely in my husbands name, but on credit cards I have been an additional card holder.

I will shortly be returning to work part time and would like to get a credit card in my own name in order to purchase work clothes from time to time. This would also help re-build my credit history. I know the rate is likely to be high and the credit limit low, but that doesn't matter as I will pay it off in full each month. How long should I be employed for before applying for a card?, also is there a particular one which would be good to apply for?

Thanks PP

Moggles_2

Unfortunately, your Barclaycard history is more than 6 years old and will have dropped off your credit file. The fact that you have been an additional card holder is of no help either, as the principle card holder is responsible for managing the account. In these circumstances, you are wise to begin rebuilding your credit history now.

I would approach your own bank. All the main ones have starter cards. You should be able to get a good idea of what's available from the bank's website.

You may also want to read Martin's How to manage & improve your credit score article, to make sure no other factors are working against you.

Careful_ly

You might want to pick up a paper application form from Marks and Spencers, earlier this year the form asked for household income (it may have changed do check). If it is still the same you could get a decent limit as you could put your partners income down. It is also interest free till March 2008 on purchases.

HTH

Pinklepurr

Thanks for your replies. Out household income is healthy, my contribution to it will only be £300 pm as i will be working term time/part time from September, so if the total household income can be taken into account, even better! I'll have a look...

Moggles_2

Marks & Spencer's advertising & marketing is definitely aimed at the fairer sex,
so it's worth a go.

Keep us posted
M

YorkshireBoy

Careful_ly wrote: »

You might want to pick up a paper application form from Marks and Spencers, earlier this year the form asked for household income (it may have changed do check).

The current online application form also only asks for "total joint income before tax". Conveniently, it also has the option to enter your employment status as "at home".

I agree with Moggles, they do look favourably on the fairer sex (they also bombard them with what seems like thrice weekly e-mails!!!).