Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit

When you have trouble paying the bills each month, it’s easy to fall behind. But missing just a few payments can cause your credit score to go down, a massive problem millions of people face each year.

According to Experian, one of the three credit reporting bureaus, over 37 percent of Americans have credit scores below 669. That means that over a third of the population has low credit scores, making it difficult to get approved for lines of credit.

If you’re part of that group, you know how inconvenient not having a credit card can be. Luckily, there are a number of credit cards specifically designed for those with poor credit.

Secured Credit Cards

Secured credit cards work differently than traditional cards. Essentially, you’re borrowing against yourself. Instead of having a credit line you can use, you need to put up money as collateral. The money you deposit is how much you can charge on the card.

For example, if you had a secured credit card and deposited $500 on the card, you could make up to $500 worth of purchases. Once you hit that $500 threshold, you couldn’t use that card anymore until you make a payment.

Secured credit cards tend to be a smart first card for those with bad credit. By using one responsibly, you can start to establish good credit and later qualify for a regular card.

Below are two of the top secured credit cards available.

1.Secured Mastercard® from Capital One

The Secured Mastercard® from Capital One has no annual fee, but it does have a 26.99% (Variable) APR and requires a security deposit. Over time, the card can be a useful credit building tool that can help establish a strong credit report.

*Information for this card not reviewed by or provided by Capital One

2. PREMIER Bankcard® Secured Credit Card (Offer No Longer Available) You can have extra buying borrow with the PREMIER Bankcard® Secured Credit Card. Monitor your progress with monthly credit reports (updated quarterly). After 13 months you could be eligible for a credit limit increase (Terms & Conditions apply). If approved, make your first six monthly minimum payments on time and we may send you an offer to apply for an unsecured credit card. Some restrictions apply. ‡ However, it does have an annual fee.

Cards designed for people limited or bad credit

After having a secured card and making your payments on time for six months to a year, your credit score will begin to improve. As your credit history gets better, you’ll be able to transition to a regular credit card, rather than just a secured card.

You might not be able to qualify for a low-interest card just yet — and some credit cards for bad credit can have high interest rates and fees — but if you practice good habits and pay off your balance in full every month, you won’t have to worry about interest charges. Over time, you can then upgrade to a competitive card with low interest rates and great rewards.

Some of the best cards for people with poor credit include:

1. Total Visa® Card

The Total Visa® Card is a card designed for those new to credit. A legitimate Visa® card, it gives you a small credit line of $300. The card does have a number of fees to be aware of, but if you need a credit card to start building your credit, it can be a smart option. As your credit improves, you can switch to a better Visa® card with fewer fees.

2. Net First Platinum

The Net First Platinum card gives you a credit line as large as $750. Although the card boasts a 0.00% APR, you should know that it charges a higher monthly fee, check out their website for more details. The higher monthly fee means that this card can be a credit-building tool, but when possible, you should look to upgrade to another card.

3. Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa® for Rebuilding Credit

The Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa® for Rebuilding Credit is one of the few cards for people with bad credit that offers rewards. With this credit card, you can earn 1% cash back rewards on eligible gas, grocery purchases and mobile phone service, internet, cable and satellite TV services, terms apply. Depending on your credit, you could be eligible for an annual fee of anywhere from $75/$99.

*Information for this card not reviewed by or provided by Capital One

Getting a card

Getting a credit card when you have poor credit can be challenging, but there are options available that can help you establish good credit and boost your score. If you’re ready to apply for a card, make sure you compare rates and fees from several credit card companies to ensure you get the best deal.