Getting a Credit Card With a Low Credit Score

Getting a apply bad credit credit cards with a low credit score is difficult. It can also lead to higher interest rates and other fees, which can make it difficult for you to pay off your balance each month.

Luckily, there are many cards out there specifically designed for those with bad or no credit. These cards may not have the perks like cash back, travel points or miles that you’d find on a more traditional credit card, but they offer a chance to build your credit by making responsible use of the account.

Secured and unsecured cards

The best credit cards for poor or no credit are secured cards, which require you to put down a security deposit before they issue you a credit line. This initial deposit serves as collateral for your credit line and can be refunded after you’ve shown that you’re responsible with your payments. Some secured credit cards even allow you to graduate to an unsecured card with a larger credit limit over time.

Credit-building tools and features

Some of these cards include credit-building tools, including free access to your credit score, auto-pay and credit-monitoring alerts. Others offer a host of financial education resources to help you understand your credit history.

How to Choose the Right Credit Card for Your Low Credit Score

Gas rewards

There are credit cards specifically for those with bad or no credit that give you cash back on fuel purchases. If you’re a frequent shopper at the pump, this type of card could be right for you.