Ever felt that sinking feeling when you see your credit score? Don’t worry. Getting a credit card with a less-than-perfect credit history is not only possible, it’s an effective way to rebuild your financial standing.
➡️ TL;DR: Your Quick Guide to Getting a Credit Card with Bad Credit
Easiest to get with bad credit. You provide a refundable security deposit ($200-$500).
“Soft inquiry” that doesn’t hurt your credit score.
Trusted friend or family with good credit can add you to their card.
Always pay on time and keep your balance low.
Be wary of cards with extremely high fees or “guaranteed approval”.
📈 What Does a “Bad” Credit Score Actually Mean?
Before you can fix the problem, it helps to know what you’re up against. Here are the most common credit score ranges:
Remember: If your score is below 670, you’re likely facing some hurdles. But think of this score not as a judgment, but as a starting line.
➡️ Your 4-Step Journey
Check Your Credit Report for Free
You might find errors that are dragging your score down! By law, you are entitled to a free copy from each bureau every week at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Explore Your Main Options
With bad credit, you generally have two types of credit cards to consider.
Consider These Powerful Alternatives
Credit-builder loans and becoming an authorized user.
Apply Smartly
Look for “pre-qualification” and apply for only one card at a time.
💳 Secured vs. Unsecured Cards for Bad Credit
| Feature | Secured Credit Cards | Unsecured Credit Cards for Bad Credit |
|---|---|---|
| How it Works | You provide a refundable cash deposit that usually equals your credit limit. | No deposit required. It works like a traditional credit card. |
| Approval Odds | Very high – It’s the most accessible option for credit rebuilders. | Lower – Issuers take on more risk. |
| Typical APR | APRs can be high, but are often lower than unsecured “bad credit” cards. | Often have very high APRs, sometimes exceeding 30%. |
| Fees | May have a low annual fee, or none at all. | Frequently charge high annual fees, and sometimes monthly “maintenance” fees. |
| Best For | Credit rebuilders who can afford the deposit and want to rebuild credit. | Those who can’t pay a deposit but are willing to accept higher fees and interest rates. |
👥 Success Story: Lisa’s 3-Step Comeback
After a medical emergency and job loss, Lisa’s credit score plummeted to 520. Here’s how she turned it around in just one year:
Used her tax refund to open a $300 secured credit card.
Used it only for streaming and set up automatic full payments.
In 6 months, her score jumped over 60 points! In 12 months, she was in the “fair” credit range.
✅ Smart Credit Habits to Start Today
Check off the habits you already practice or plan to implement:
🧮 Calculator: See How On-Time Payments Can Build Your Credit Score
In 6 months
With on-time payments
In 12 months
With consistent habits
In 24 months
With full discipline
Note: This is an estimated projection. Actual results may vary based on various factors like credit history, account types, and other financial practices.
📄 Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it’s definitely possible. Your best bet will almost certainly be a secured credit card. Approval odds for unsecured cards are very low with a score in this range.
No. Be very wary of this language. According to the FTC, legitimate lenders will always review your application and can’t guarantee approval beforehand.
Yes! As long as you pay off your balance, the security deposit is fully refundable when you close the account or when the issuer “graduates” you to an unsecured card.
Usually between $200-$500, which becomes your credit limit. Some cards allow larger deposits for higher limits.
You can see positive changes within 3-6 months of responsible use (paying on time and keeping balances low). Significant improvements to get into “good” credit territory can take 12-24 months.
Yes! As long as the card issuer reports to all three major credit bureaus (most do, but always check!), it has the same credit-building potential as a regular unsecured card.
Money Fox may earn a commission from our partners if you apply for and receive a credit card through the links on our site. This helps us keep our content free and our foxes fed! All our recommendations are based on our independent research and analysis to help you make the best choice for your financial situation.
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