So your credit score has taken a few hits — hey, life happens.
Maybe you missed a payment. Maybe you maxed out your card. Maybe you just ghosted your bills for a bit. The good news? You’re not doomed. There are plenty of options out there, even if you’re starting from the bottom of the credit ladder.
This is your guide to some of the best credit cards for bad credit in 2025, including secured cards, unsecured credit cards for bad credit, and even some surprisingly easy credit cards to get approved for with bad credit. Whether you’re rebuilding, restarting, or just figuring it out as you go, we’ve got your back.
MoneyLion offers a service to help you find personal loan offers! Get matched with offers for up to $50,000 from our top providers. You can compare rates, terms, and fees from different lenders and choose the best offer for you.
Table of contents
9 Best credit cards for bad credit
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty. Here are some of the best credit cards for bad credit, each suited for different needs.
1. Best for no annual fee: Discover it® Secured Credit Card
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is a game-changer for those with bad credit. Not only does it have no annual fee, but it also offers rewards on your purchases — an uncommon perk for secured cards. You earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, plus 1% on all other purchases. This card also reports to all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), making it a great tool for rebuilding credit.
| Credit score needed: 300 to 670 | Purchases intro APR: 28.24% variable |
| Intro bonus: Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year | Cash advance fee: $10 or 5%, whichever is greater |
| Annual fee: $0 | Balance transfer fee: 3% |
| Regular APR: 27.24% variable | Foreign transaction fee: None |
2. Best for low deposit: Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
The Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card is ideal if you’re strapped for cash. With a low security deposit requirement starting at $49, $99, or $200, you can start rebuilding your credit without breaking the bank. Plus, with responsible use, you may be eligible for a higher credit line in as little as six months. It’s perfect for those who need to keep initial costs down while working on their credit score.
| Credit score needed: 300 to 629 | Purchases intro APR: 29.99% variable APR |
| Intro bonus: N/A | Cash advance fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater |
| Annual fee: $0 | Balance transfer fee: N/A |
| Regular APR: 29.74% variable APR | Foreign transaction fee: 3% |
3. Best for building credit: OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
The OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card doesn’t require a credit check, making it the easiest card to get if you have bad credit. It reports to all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), which is essential for rebuilding your credit. With a reasonable annual fee and competitive APR, this card offers a straightforward path to improving your credit without the hassle of a credit check.
| Credit score needed: No credit check | Purchases intro APR: 25.64% variable* |
| Intro bonus: N/A | Cash advance fee: $6 or 5% of the amount of each Cash Advance, whichever is greater |
| Annual fee: $35 | Balance transfer fee: N/A |
| Regular APR: 21.14% variable | Foreign transaction fee: 3% |
*This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.
4. Best for unsecured credit: Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa® for Rebuilding Credit
The Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa® for Rebuilding Credit is a solid choice if you’re looking for an unsecured credit card for bad credit. It offers cash back rewards on eligible purchases like groceries, gas, and utilities. Plus, it comes with the convenience of not needing a security deposit. This card also provides free credit score tracking, helping you stay on top of your credit-building journey.
| Credit score needed: 300 to 670 | Purchases intro APR: 29.74%, based on your creditworthiness |
| Intro bonus: N/A | Cash advance fee: Either $5 or 8% of the amount of each Cash Advance, whichever is greater, or $10 or 5% of each Cash Advance, whichever is greater |
| Annual fee: $75 first year, then $99 billed monthly ($8.25/mo) | Balance transfer fee: N/A |
| Regular APR: 21.14% variable | Foreign transaction fee: Either $1 or 3% of each purchase in U.S. dollars, whichever is greater |
5. Best for cash back rewards: Discover it® Student Cash Back
Yes, students with bad credit can still earn rewards! The Discover it® Student Cash Back card offers 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter, like gas stations, restaurants, and Amazon.com, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, you earn 1% on all other purchases. It’s an excellent starter card for students who want to build credit while earning rewards.
| Credit score needed: Fair to good (580 to 740) | Purchases intro APR: 0% for six months |
| Intro bonus: Unlimited Cashback Match — Discover matches all the cash back earned at the end of your first year | Cash advance fee: $10 or 5%, whichever is greater |
| Annual fee: $0 | Balance transfer fee: 3% |
| Regular APR: 117.24%–26.24% variable | Foreign transaction fee: None |
6. Best for quick approval: Indigo® Platinum Mastercard®
The Indigo® Platinum Mastercard® is great for those needing a fast credit card. It offers prequalification without impacting your credit score and a straightforward application process. This card is designed for those with less-than-perfect credit and provides an accessible way to rebuild your credit.
| Credit score needed: 300 to 600 | Purchases intro APR: 35.9% |
| Intro bonus: N/A | Cash advance fee: Either $0.50 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater |
| Annual fee: $0–$99 | Balance transfer fee: N/A |
| Regular APR: 24.90% | Foreign transaction fee: 1% |
7. Best for low fees: Petal® 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa® Credit Card
The Petal® 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa® Credit Card stands out for those with bad credit due to its low fees. Unlike many other cards for bad credit, Petal® 1 does not require a security deposit and has no annual fee. Additionally, it offers cash back on select purchases and helps build credit by reporting to all three major credit bureaus. It’s an excellent choice for rebuilding credit without incurring hefty costs.
| Credit score needed: Fair | Purchases intro APR: N/A |
| Intro bonus: None | Cash advance fee: N/A |
| Annual fee: $0 | Balance transfer fee: N/A |
| Regular APR: 28.99%–33.99% variable | Foreign transaction fee: N/A |
8. Best for students with bad credit: Quicksilver Rewards for Students from Capital One
The Quicksilver Rewards for Students from Capital One is a fantastic option for students with bad credit who want to build their credit history while earning rewards. This card offers 1.5% cash back on every purchase, with no rotating categories to worry about. There’s no annual fee, making it a budget-friendly choice for students. Additionally, you get access to a higher credit line after making your first five monthly payments on time, helping you build credit responsibly.
| Credit score needed: Fair to good (580 to 740) | Purchases intro APR: 19.99% — 29.99% variable |
| Intro bonus: One-time $50 after $100 spend in first 3 months | Cash advance fee: 3% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10 |
| Annual fee: $0 | Balance transfer fee: 3% |
| Regular APR: 19.24%–29.24% variable | Foreign transaction fee: None |
9. Best for rebuilding credit: Secured Sable ONE Credit Card
The Secured Sable ONE Credit Card offers an easy transition to an unsecured card after demonstrating responsible use. Plus, it comes with rewards and a competitive APR, making it an excellent choice for rebuilding your credit.
| Credit score needed: Limited or bad | Purchases intro APR:18% — 24% variable |
| Intro bonus:None | Cash advance fee:Varies |
| Annual fee:Varied based on credit limit | Balance transfer fee:N/A |
| Regular APR:18% — 24% variable | Foreign transaction fee:Varies |
What is considered bad credit?
Generally, a FICO score under 580 is considered “bad” — and while that label isn’t flattering, it’s not permanent. Credit cards for bad credit are built to help you move out of that zone, especially if you’re consistent with payments and keep your balance low.
How to choose a credit card for bad credit
Not all credit cards for low credit scores are created equal. Some are genuinely helpful stepping stones. Others are dressed-up traps with sky-high fees and fine print so sneaky it should come with a neon warning label. Here’s what to look for:
- Type of card: Secured credit cards require a refundable deposit (usually your credit limit), but they’re easyto get and tend to have fewer fees. Some of the best unsecured credit cards for poor credit don’t need a deposit, but you’ll often pay for that convenience through higher interest and maintenance fees.
- Fees: Look out for application fees, processing fees, “monthly maintenance” (🙄) fees — the works. The best credit cards for people with bad credit should be upfront about costs.
- Annual fee: Not all credit cards for bad credit charge an annual fee, but many unsecured options do. Make sure the benefits outweigh the cost.
- Annual percentage rate (APR): Most cards in this category will have a high interest rate — that’s just the reality. But there’s a difference between “high” and “predatory,” so shop around.
- Credit reporting: If you’re trying to rebuild, your activity needs to count. Always check that the issuer reports to all three major credit bureaus — otherwise, your good habits won’t help your score.
- Upgrade potential: Some cards let you graduate to a better product once your credit improves. If you’re starting with one of the best secured credit cards for bad credit, see if it can eventually convert to an unsecured card.
- Pre-approval: Many pre approved credit cards for bad credit let you check your chances without a hard credit pull. It’s a smart way to apply — no guesswork, no credit score damage.
How to get a credit card with bad credit
It’s not rocket science — it’s just about knowing the game and playing it smart.
- Check your credit score: Before you do anything, know where you stand. Whether you’re sitting at a 580 or closer to 500, understanding your score helps you target the right credit cards for bad credit. 👉 How to Get a Free Credit Score: Step By Step
- Compare offers from different issuers: Don’t settle for the first offer in your inbox. There are dozens of credit cards to apply for with bad credit, and not all lenders treat low scores equally. Some have better terms, lower fees, or easier approval paths. 👉 How to Compare Credit Cards
- Choose a card and apply: Pick a card that’s built for people with bad credit — not just one that accepts bad credit. Look for cards that report to all three bureaus and help you improve your score over time.
- Put down a security deposit: If you’re going the secured route, your deposit becomes your credit limit. It’s a small price to pay for a second chance — and in many cases, you can get it back later.
- Use the card responsibly: The formula is simple: spend small, keep your balance low, pay on time, and repeat. That consistency is what turns a starter card into a better credit score.
Tips for using your card responsibly while gradually increasing your credit score
- Don’t max it out. Ever.
- Pay on time — even if it’s the minimum.
- Set alerts or autopay so you don’t forget.
- Use your credit regularly, but lightly. Treat it like a fancy accessory, not your main wardrobe.
MoneyLion offers a free and convenient way to find offers from our trusted partners to help you improve your credit — such as credit monitoring, credit report disputes, and getting credit by paying bills. A good credit score can lead to lower interest rates and increased borrowing power on loans and credit cards.
Rebuilding Isn’t Glamorous — But It Works
The best cards for bad credit aren’t about perks or points. They’re about getting you back in the game. Whether you’re eyeing the best secured credit card for bad credit or hunting for the best unsecured credit cards for bad credit, there’s a path forward — and you don’t have to go it alone.
Looking for credit monitoring tools? Join MoneyLion today.
FAQs
What is the best credit card for people with bad credit?
The best credit card for bad credit depends on your goals. If you want to rebuild with training wheels, go for a secured card. If you’d rather skip the deposit, check out unsecured credit cards for bad credit — just know they may come with higher fees. Either way, the best credit card for bad credit is the one you can use responsibly (and, of course, get approved for).
Can I get a credit card with a 500 credit score?
Yes — a 500 score doesn’t disqualify you. There are credit cards for bad credit, including secured and even some unsecured credit cards for poor credit, that are designed exactly for this scenario. Just expect limited perks and higher interest while you rebuild.
How long does it take to improve bad credit with a credit card?
If you use your card wisely — pay on time, don’t max it out — you could see improvement in as little as 3–6 months. That said, moving from “bad” to “good” credit takes consistent effort, especially if you’re working with credit cards for low credit scores.
Are there any no-fee credit cards for bad credit?
They’re rare, but they do exist. A few credit cards to apply for with bad credit have no annual fee, though they may require a deposit or have stricter approval standards. Always read the fine print — some “low fee” cards sneak in charges elsewhere.
What are the advantages of a secured credit card for bad credit?
A secured credit card gives you a way to prove yourself — it’s low-risk for the lender and high-reward for your credit score. These are some of the best credit cards for poor credit if you’re just starting out or starting over.
Are secured credit cards better for rebuilding credit than unsecured cards?
In many cases, yes. Secured cards often come with lower fees, more predictable terms, and easier approval — making them one of the best secured credit card for bad credit options. But a responsible unsecured credit card can also help, if you can get approved.
Do all credit cards for bad credit require a security deposit?
Nope — but many do, including some of the best credit cards for bad to fair credit. While secured cards ask for a deposit, there are unsecured credit cards for bad credit and other easy credit cards to get with bad credit that skip it. Just know that the easier they are to get, the more you’ll likely pay in fees or interest.
How do I get a credit card with bad credit?
Try applying for a secured credit card where you put down a cash deposit that becomes your credit limit, or look into credit-builder cards. You can also ask someone with good credit to add you as an authorized user on their account, which may help improve your credit score over time.
