Chapter 08

Build Your U.S. Credit Score from Scratch

Secured card $200-$500 deposit, 6-18 months score, ITIN accepted everywhere, Capital One from 670+.

Direct answer · 60-second summary

In 60 sec

Secured card requires deposit ($200-$500) = credit limit. After 6-12 months on-time payments, upgrade to unsecured card. ITIN Experian accepts mail requests.

Steps 1-4

1. Open RBC Bank checking account (USD).
2. Request ITIN via Form W-7 + CAA.
3. Apply Capital One secured card.
4. Use 10-30% limit, pay in full each month.

Editorial team

CanadaFlorida Editorial Team

Research drawn from primary public sources cited at the bottom of every guide: U.S. and Florida statutes, U.S. and Canadian federal agencies, official Florida county and state authorities, and Canadian provincial bodies where applicable.

canadafloridaThe reference manual

Every figure, rate, threshold, and deadline in this guide is drawn from a verifiable primary source listed at the bottom of the page. The article is updated whenever the underlying rules change, with a fresh review date stamped at the top.

Sources

IRS, Capital One (2026-04-28)

In 60 sec

Steps 1-4

CanadaFlorida Editorial Team

Sources

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