This Is How I Started - What is Your Credit Card Story?

[Boy 07]

Hey TFCians,

Here we are—a community of more than 50,000 like-minded individuals, discussing credit cards and banking every single day. But today, let’s get a bit personal. Let’s talk about how you started your credit card journey.

This isn't just about which card you got first or what your initial experience was. Let’s go deeper—where did you first hear about credit cards? What were your expectations? What was your background at that point in life?

I’ll start this fun by sharing my own story…

I’m Sumanta Mandal, as many of you know. Born in 1993 (7 years before 2000... Thala for a reason, lol) in a lower-middle-class family.
I started freelancing at the age of 16, back in 2009. I used to work on oDesk (which is now Upwork), as well as platforms like Microworkers and Amazon Mechanical Turk. One of the biggest challenges back then was getting paid. There was PayPal, which allowed withdrawals in India, and AlertPay, which didn't.

At that time, I used my father's SBI bank account for withdrawals. But PayPal would often ask for verification, and back then, it only supported debit cards from HDFC, ICICI, and Axis Bank. So, I convinced my father to open an HDFC Bank account in his name—just to get the right debit card. And that was the spark. That was when my interest in the banking system truly began.

On my 18th birthday in 2011, the first thing I did was apply for a PAN card. The same day, I applied for a Voter ID card (even though it wasn't needed to open a bank account). After getting my PAN, I opened an Axis Bank student account with a ₹2,500 minimum balance. That was my very first bank account. Then came an SBI savings account. And soon after that, I started opening accounts in almost every PSU bank—Allahabad Bank, Bank of India, United Bank—you name it. By 2012, I had most of them.

By that time, I had become one of the top-earning member of Microworkers in India—among the top 3, actually. I was also rated as a “Rising Talent” on oDesk and had clocked over 1,500 hours of work. I mostly did website management and research-related work.

In 2013, I started hiring people to help with one of my client’s projects. I needed a credit card to pay them. Sure, I could use my debit card—but a credit card made more sense. That’s when I started learning more about credit cards. But coming from a lower-middle-class family, none of my family members had ever even thought of having one.
I approached Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, and a few others. All rejected me—because I didn’t have a stable income. Freelance income had no value in the eyes of banks back then. I was making around ₹40,000/month, but it didn’t matter.

That same year, I got an offer from an Australian company through oDesk. They hired me to manage their Amazon store, handle shipments, communicate with factories in China, and conduct research. They were paying me around ₹85,000/month—but still, no bank wanted to issue me a credit card.

The company owner, though, was incredibly supportive. She constantly encouraged me to start my own business and begin selling on Amazon.

In 2015, I made the decision to start my own Amazon store. But for that, I desperately needed a credit card. I didn’t care about rewards—I was even ready to pay a 3.5% markup fee. I just needed a card to get started.

As expected, all the banks rejected me again. Income tax returns didn’t help either. Finally, the local ICICI Bank manager offered me a deal: If I bought a ULIP plan with a ₹3 lakh annual premium, they’d issue me a Coral credit card. I immediately agreed. And 15 days later, my first credit card arrived.

In 2016, I launched my Amazon US store.

Fast forward to 2019—I wanted to share something useful about credit cards with others. So I started the TechnoFino YouTube channel.
In late 2020, I attempted to build a community website. It didn’t work—too much spam, no engagement. In 2021, I tried again. Failed. Tried again in the last quarter of the same year. Failed again.
Finally, in 2022, I launched the current version of the TechnoFino Community website—and today, it’s used by over 50,000 members and many guest readers.

And the rest? Well, you guys already know that part.

Right now, I have 63 credit cards—all primary cards, no add-ons counted.

That’s my story. Now, I’d absolutely love to hear yours. Drop your story in the comments—it’ll be fun to see how all of us started and how far we’ve come.

your story always inspires me

 

[Fini7777]

@TechnoFino

Hi folks,
My story is a bit different—and quite lengthy. I was drawn to the world of finance at the young age of 13. Coming from a family with very little financial literacy, we often found ourselves caught in cycles of debt due to a lack of awareness and knowledge. Observing this firsthand, I began to explore and find solutions on my own. That marked the beginning of my journey into banking.

I started learning about finance through the internet, and by 2016, my interest had grown significantly. I began researching and learning about the best possible ways to tackle financial challenges. Gradually, I started educating my family as well. Things slowly improved. After clearing all our debts, I shifted my focus toward enhancing my knowledge about bank accounts, credit cards, and overall financial planning.

In 2019, I discovered a gem in the industry—TechnoFino. Until then, I was mostly focused on finding the best debit cards and savings accounts, and I hadn't really paid much attention to credit cards. But as I started following TechnoFino’s YouTube channel, I found the content incredibly helpful and inspiring. I must say a big thank you—your videos helped shape my journey.

Motivated by what I learned, I decided to take my first FD-backed credit card from Axis Bank—my first account with a private bank. I was excited and soon added two more cards: one from SBI and another OneCard on FD. Although I was using three cards, I didn’t focus on getting an unsecured credit card and ended up wasting almost a year.

Later, I approached HDFC and enrolled in Classic Banking. During 2021–2022, while pursuing my studies, I did some freelance work and earned a bit of money. Based on that, I received a pre-approved offer from HDFC for a MoneyBack+ credit card in 2022, and that turned out to be one of my biggest mistakes. Out of sheer excitement, I accepted the offer. In hindsight, I should have waited for a better card with the LTF offer.

In March 2022, I joined this community and have since learned so much from the people here. Over time, I’ve built a strong credit card portfolio that suits my lifestyle. I’ve optimized it for better returns and benefits, closing 13 cards and currently holding 13 active ones.

I’ve recently completed my studies and am about to begin my professional journey. I’ve always believed that financial awareness is not just important—it’s essential for a stable and secure life. Sadly, India’s financial literacy rate is still estimated to be around 27%, which shows how far we have to go. I’m genuinely grateful to you, @TechnoFino . You haven’t just built a finance community—you’ve become a driving force in promoting financial literacy across the country. Your contribution is making a real difference.

Please keep up the amazing work—and do focus more on YouTube too, brother 😅 !

Lessons from My Journey:​

1. Be patient—wait for the right credit card. Don’t rush into picking up any random or less rewarding one.
2. Build a portfolio that aligns with your lifestyle and spending habits, not just a random mix of cards.
3. Avoid making impulsive decisions—excitement can sometimes lead you into traps that are hard to get out of.
4. Prefer an optimized collection over a large, unmanaged one.
5. Don’t encourage someone to get a credit card if they’re not financially aware or are credit-hungry—it could ruin their financial future. Credit cards are not meant for those who are truly in need of them.

 

[TechnoFinoTechnoFino is verified member.]

@TechnoFino

Hi folks,
My story is a bit different—and quite lengthy. I was drawn to the world of finance at the young age of 13. Coming from a family with very little financial literacy, we often found ourselves caught in cycles of debt due to a lack of awareness and knowledge. Observing this firsthand, I began to explore and find solutions on my own. That marked the beginning of my journey into banking.

I started learning about finance through the internet, and by 2016, my interest had grown significantly. I began researching and learning about the best possible ways to tackle financial challenges. Gradually, I started educating my family as well. Things slowly improved. After clearing all our debts, I shifted my focus toward enhancing my knowledge about bank accounts, credit cards, and overall financial planning.

In 2019, I discovered a gem in the industry—TechnoFino. Until then, I was mostly focused on finding the best debit cards and savings accounts, and I hadn't really paid much attention to credit cards. But as I started following TechnoFino’s YouTube channel, I found the content incredibly helpful and inspiring. I must say a big thank you—your videos helped shape my journey.

Motivated by what I learned, I decided to take my first FD-backed credit card from Axis Bank—my first account with a private bank. I was excited and soon added two more cards: one from SBI and another OneCard on FD. Although I was using three cards, I didn’t focus on getting an unsecured credit card and ended up wasting almost a year.

Later, I approached HDFC and enrolled in Classic Banking. During 2021–2022, while pursuing my studies, I did some freelance work and earned a bit of money. Based on that, I received a pre-approved offer from HDFC for a MoneyBack+ credit card in 2022, and that turned out to be one of my biggest mistakes. Out of sheer excitement, I accepted the offer. In hindsight, I should have waited for a better card with the LTF offer.

In March 2022, I joined this community and have since learned so much from the people here. Over time, I’ve built a strong credit card portfolio that suits my lifestyle. I’ve optimized it for better returns and benefits, closing 13 cards and currently holding 13 active ones.

I’ve recently completed my studies and am about to begin my professional journey. I’ve always believed that financial awareness is not just important—it’s essential for a stable and secure life. Sadly, India’s financial literacy rate is still estimated to be around 27%, which shows how far we have to go. I’m genuinely grateful to you, @TechnoFino . You haven’t just built a finance community—you’ve become a driving force in promoting financial literacy across the country. Your contribution is making a real difference.

Please keep up the amazing work—and do focus more on YouTube too, brother 😅 !

Lessons from My Journey:​

1. Be patient—wait for the right credit card. Don’t rush into picking up any random or less rewarding one.
2. Build a portfolio that aligns with your lifestyle and spending habits, not just a random mix of cards.
3. Avoid making impulsive decisions—excitement can sometimes lead you into traps that are hard to get out of.
4. Prefer an optimized collection over a large, unmanaged one.
5. Don’t encourage someone to get a credit card if they’re not financially aware or are credit-hungry—it could ruin their financial future. Credit cards are not meant for those who are truly in need of them.

Amazing! 😻
You said it perfectly—financial literacy is still quite low in our country, especially outside urban areas. There are people in rural regions earning far more than the average urban income, yet due to a lack of financial knowledge, they often end up with zero savings.

But things are changing... I’ve seen many from the younger generation starting to take interest in the banking system, investments, insurance, and more. That gives me hope.

And your last line truly hits the mark:
"Don’t encourage someone to get a credit card if they’re not financially aware or are credit-hungry—it could ruin their financial future. Credit cards are not meant for those who are truly in need of them."
This is such an important message, and something we all need to understand and spread.

I wish you all the best for you professional career... 🥂

 

[hender]

@TechnoFino

Hi folks,
My story is a bit different—and quite lengthy. I was drawn to the world of finance at the young age of 13. Coming from a family with very little financial literacy, we often found ourselves caught in cycles of debt due to a lack of awareness and knowledge. Observing this firsthand, I began to explore and find solutions on my own. That marked the beginning of my journey into banking.

I started learning about finance through the internet, and by 2016, my interest had grown significantly. I began researching and learning about the best possible ways to tackle financial challenges. Gradually, I started educating my family as well. Things slowly improved. After clearing all our debts, I shifted my focus toward enhancing my knowledge about bank accounts, credit cards, and overall financial planning.

In 2019, I discovered a gem in the industry—TechnoFino. Until then, I was mostly focused on finding the best debit cards and savings accounts, and I hadn't really paid much attention to credit cards. But as I started following TechnoFino’s YouTube channel, I found the content incredibly helpful and inspiring. I must say a big thank you—your videos helped shape my journey.

Motivated by what I learned, I decided to take my first FD-backed credit card from Axis Bank—my first account with a private bank. I was excited and soon added two more cards: one from SBI and another OneCard on FD. Although I was using three cards, I didn’t focus on getting an unsecured credit card and ended up wasting almost a year.

Later, I approached HDFC and enrolled in Classic Banking. During 2021–2022, while pursuing my studies, I did some freelance work and earned a bit of money. Based on that, I received a pre-approved offer from HDFC for a MoneyBack+ credit card in 2022, and that turned out to be one of my biggest mistakes. Out of sheer excitement, I accepted the offer. In hindsight, I should have waited for a better card with the LTF offer.

In March 2022, I joined this community and have since learned so much from the people here. Over time, I’ve built a strong credit card portfolio that suits my lifestyle. I’ve optimized it for better returns and benefits, closing 13 cards and currently holding 13 active ones.

I’ve recently completed my studies and am about to begin my professional journey. I’ve always believed that financial awareness is not just important—it’s essential for a stable and secure life. Sadly, India’s financial literacy rate is still estimated to be around 27%, which shows how far we have to go. I’m genuinely grateful to you, @TechnoFino . You haven’t just built a finance community—you’ve become a driving force in promoting financial literacy across the country. Your contribution is making a real difference.

Please keep up the amazing work—and do focus more on YouTube too, brother 😅 !

Lessons from My Journey:​

1. Be patient—wait for the right credit card. Don’t rush into picking up any random or less rewarding one.
2. Build a portfolio that aligns with your lifestyle and spending habits, not just a random mix of cards.
3. Avoid making impulsive decisions—excitement can sometimes lead you into traps that are hard to get out of.
4. Prefer an optimized collection over a large, unmanaged one.
5. Don’t encourage someone to get a credit card if they’re not financially aware or are credit-hungry—it could ruin their financial future. Credit cards are not meant for those who are truly in need of them.

Amazing! 😻
You said it perfectly—financial literacy is still quite low in our country, especially outside urban areas. There are people in rural regions earning far more than the average urban income, yet due to a lack of financial knowledge, they often end up with zero savings.

But things are changing... I’ve seen many from the younger generation starting to take interest in the banking system, investments, insurance, and more. That gives me hope.

And your last line truly hits the mark:
"Don’t encourage someone to get a credit card if they’re not financially aware or are credit-hungry—it could ruin their financial future. Credit cards are not meant for those who are truly in need of them."
This is such an important message, and something we all need to understand and spread.

I wish you all the best for you professional career... 🥂

You both have wonderful skills of ✍️ writing, if you can write ---
Income to spend ratio...every slab...(0 to Max)
In respective category....(Single/Family)
Have not found any such exclusive thread...
It will also help people, to understand few other things considerably, not just to be in the free flow of FOMO.

 

[ashwinikumar900]

Amazing! 😻
You said it perfectly—financial literacy is still quite low in our country, especially outside urban areas. There are people in rural regions earning far more than the average urban income, yet due to a lack of financial knowledge, they often end up with zero savings.

But things are changing... I’ve seen many from the younger generation starting to take interest in the banking system, investments, insurance, and more. That gives me hope.

And your last line truly hits the mark:
"Don’t encourage someone to get a credit card if they’re not financially aware or are credit-hungry—it could ruin their financial future. Credit cards are not meant for those who are truly in need of them."
This is such an important message, and something we all need to understand and spread.

I wish you all the best for you professional career... 🥂

1. LIC
2. ULIPs
3. Regular Mutual Funds
4. Not opting for Health Insurance/Term plan

These are the few biggest mistakes people often make because of this financial illiteracy. It is astonishing to note that not even in rural areas, but also among affluent urban families, there is a huge lack of financial literacy.

 

[hender]

1. LIC
2. ULIPs
3. Regular Mutual Funds
4. Not opting for Health Insurance/Term plan

These are the few biggest mistakes people often make because of this financial illiteracy. It is astonishing to note that not even in rural areas, but also among affluent urban families, there is a huge lack of financial literacy.

Somewhat agree 👍, partial disagree..

Use case: I have 1 LIC MoneyBack, 10+ years old, in Family.

Reason to opt:
1- Before Term Plan getting popular and cheap, it was nice than.
2- Regular Cash Flow every 4th year, which can cover next almost 3 premium.
3- Loan Ratio is good in case of need.
4- Half the Coverage of Life for 10 years post 20 years completion of policy without paying anything.
5-At any point of time, at par /above Saving account interest.
6- That was a life coverage, not the investment.
7- Never was a issue, nor it will be a burden to think 🤔 of premium to be paid.

After careful consideration, opted that time only, Good 👍 at that time, better NOW, in future it will be the BEST, for our needs.

 

[maheshspanicker]

This is a great read.
Kudos to you for fighting for what's right!

Would love to know what 15 cards you hold if you'd like to share.

Platinum and AmazonPay from ICICI
SimplyClick from SBI (flipped the card from save in 2020), Millenia and Neu Infinity from HDFC, Eazydiner and Legend from IndusInd, RBL Monthly Treats, SCB Titanium, Flipkart Axis, Amex MRCC, IDFC Select, PNB Rupay Select, Federal Imperio, AU Zenith.

 

[maheshspanicker]

@maheshspanicker , Buddy, I have to read story thrice just to double / triple check ✅ and confirm you are not My Professor Friend, almost identical story. Not sure, he is into credit card thing or not, but otherwise more than many similarities and situation.

You shared the issue/journey faced for Credit Card Hunch, but story is more about the the complete EcoSystem around it.
How we perceive, expect and react moreover treat people.
It's just Changing name form disability to Physically challenged....or something beyond.....

But My Friend have out of the box solution/ideas for many things.

He is interested in India's first all blind waiter /staff only restaurant, only few with vision.

I will DM you, he is one of the active contributor / member of the organisation who works really well.

+1, @TechnoFino already mentioned everything.

I am writing just not to praise but to share the message that out of disabled/ challenged people only few like/need sympathy, but MOST of the people are more Live and like to do things at Own.

Concluding remarks: Being Blind, He(Friend) has seen many First day First show in Cinema hall 🎥 📽️ more than us, that too paying the ticket price himself.

Would surely like to get to know your friend...