Whether you’re starting from scratch or working to rebuild your credit, secured credit cards can be powerful tools in your financial journey. These cards require a cash security deposit, usually equivalent to your credit line, providing a safety net for the issuer and making them more available to people who have bad or no credit history.
Discover it® Secured Credit Card: Rewards and Upgrading
Discover it® Secured Credit Card stands out among secured cards by offering rewards. As you use the card responsibly, the issuer reviews accounts for potential transitions to an unsecured card. This unique feature sets it apart from competitors. Keep an eye on the issuer’s website for details before applying.
Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card by Capital One: Rewards and Upgrading
Ideal for those with poor credit, this card combines a $0 annual fee, reporting to all three credit bureaus, an automatic credit limit review after six months, and a potential upgrade path to an unsecured Capital One card. Additionally, it offers attractive rewards, including 5% back on select bookings.
Platinum Secured Credit Card by Capital One : Low Deposit
With a security deposit requirement like all secured cards, Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card stands out by allowing some qualifying applicants to start with a $200 credit line and a deposit as low as $49. Furthermore, the card offers automatic consideration for a higher credit line after six months.
Citi® Secured Mastercard®: Basic Card for Thin Credit
Designed for individuals new to credit, the Citi® Secured Mastercard® helps establish a positive credit history, providing a pathway to upgrading to a better card and retrieving your deposit. Note that this card is more suitable for those initiating their credit journey rather than those recovering from past mistakes.
Secured Visa® Credit Card by OpenSky® : No Credit Check + Lower Deposit
The Secured Visa® Credit Card by OpenSky® offers a distinctive advantage in two aspects: it does not necessitate a credit check, and it accommodates lower deposits. Despite an annual fee, the card’s attractiveness lies in its flexibility, allowing users to save on money by choosing alternative methods for funding deposits or paying bills, such as through money orders or Western Union payments.
OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card: No Credit Check + No Annual Fee
Similar to the regular OpenSky card, the OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card eliminates the annual fee, making it a budget-friendly option. It doesn’t require a credit check or a traditional bank account, providing accessibility to a broader audience.
Getting Approved for a Secured Credit Card:
While secured credit cards are designed for individuals with bad or no credit, approval is not guaranteed. Factors influencing approval include:
- Credit Report Check: Issuers typically check your credit report to assess your credit risk. Issues like ongoing bankruptcy, delinquency on other accounts, or recent account openings may affect approval.
- Demonstrated Income: You need to show that you have a stable income to cover your credit card bills. While the deposit offers a safety net, paying your bill consistently is essential.
Secured Credit Card Application Process:
- Application: Apply for the secured credit card, undergo the underwriting process, and await approval.
- Deposit Funding: Upon approval, fund the required security deposit. Some cards may require immediate payment, while others provide a grace period.
- Card Receipt: Once the deposit is funded, the issuer sends you the secured credit card.
- Usage and Payments: Use the card responsibly, keeping balances low and paying bills on time to build a positive credit history.
- Upgrade: As your credit improves, some issuers automatically review accounts for potential upgrades to unsecured cards, returning your deposit.
- Closing or Converting: If an automatic upgrade is not offered, you may need to request an upgrade, close the secured account, and open an unsecured card to retrieve your deposit.
Building or rebuilding credit with secured credit cards requires responsible use and adherence to payment schedules. Explore your options, choose a card aligned with your financial goals, and embark on a journey towards a healthier credit profile.
