Self vs Kikoff vs OpenSky for ITIN Holders
Three products that come up constantly when people ask "how do I build credit as an ITIN holder?" — and they're not the same product. Here is how they differ on the things that actually matter.
The quick summary
- Self is a credit-builder loan. You pay monthly into a locked savings account that you receive at the end of the term. Accepts ITIN.
- Kikoff is a credit-builder line of credit. Reported to two bureaus. Requires an SSN at sign-up — so as of this writing, Kikoff is generally not an option for ITIN-only applicants.
- OpenSky Secured Visa is a secured credit card. No credit check. Accepts ITIN. Refundable deposit ($200 minimum) becomes your credit limit.
The table
| Factor | Self | Kikoff | OpenSky |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product type | Credit-builder loan | Credit line | Secured card |
| ITIN accepted | Yes | No (SSN required) | Yes |
| Up-front deposit | $0 (monthly payments instead) | $0 | $200+ refundable |
| Monthly cost | ~$25 (payment + small fee) | $5 | $0 (annual fee instead) |
| Annual fee | $9 admin fee | None | $35 |
| Reports to | 3 bureaus | 2 bureaus (Equifax, Experian) | 3 bureaus |
| Hard pull | No | No | No |
Which one for an ITIN holder?
If you have an ITIN and no SSN, the practical choice is between Self and OpenSky. Both accept ITIN, both report to all three bureaus, neither does a hard pull.
Pick OpenSky ifyou can put $200+ aside as a deposit and you want a regular credit card you can use for purchases. Building credit through actual card use is the closest analog to mainstream credit history and arguably the more "useful" tradeline long-term.
Pick Self ifyou can't front a deposit but can commit to a monthly payment, or if you want to mix an installment account into your file (installment activity diversifies your credit mix, which is a small positive factor in scoring models).
Don't pick Kikoff (yet)if you only have an ITIN. It's a solid product for people with an SSN, but it's gated on SSN at sign-up.
Try the recommender
These three are a starting point, not the full universe. Try the recommender to see how the rest of our catalog stacks up for your specific situation.