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Good credit opens doors — literally. For example, if you dream of buying a home one day, you’ll need good credit to get a mortgage loan and a favorable interest rate. Luckily, if your credit is poor or fair, there are credit cards to help you rebuild your credit score and start moving forward.

The best credit cards for rebuilding credit have low or no annual fees and offer preapproval without impacting your credit. We examined the options in depth to curate this list of the very best credit cards for rebuilding your credit in 2024.

Best credit cards for rebuilding credit scores

Why trust our credit card experts

Our team of experts evaluates hundreds of credit cards and analyzes thousands of data points to help you find the best card for your situation. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content. You can read more about our methodology below.

  • 20+ cards analyzed.
  • 4+ data points considered.
  • 5-step fact-checking process.

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Discover it® Student Chrome

Discover it® Student Chrome
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Rates & fees / Terms apply
Apply Now
On Discover’s secure website

Welcome bonus

INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.

Cashback Match

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% – 27.24% Variable APR

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Fair, New to Credit
Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No annual fee or credit score required to apply.
  • Elevated cash back at restaurants and gas stations (up to a quarterly maximum), no activation required.
  • Discover will match your earnings at the end of your first year, automatically.
Cons
  • Quarterly spending cap of $1,000 for the elevated cash-back rate.
  • Low base earning rate on other purchases.
  • Discover has limited acceptance abroad.
For those seeking a no-fuss card that doesn’t require any bonus category activation, the Discover it® Student Chrome delivers, earning elevated rewards at gas stations and restaurants, up to a quarterly cap.

Card details

  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
  • Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
  • No credit score required to apply.
  • Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
  • No annual fee and build your credit with responsible use.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 18.24% – 27.24% applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.

Best for learning about credit

Secured Chime® Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card

Secured Chime® Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Apply Now
On Chime’s secure website

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

N/A

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(0 – 649) Poor, Average

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No interest.¹
  • No credit history needed.
  • No minimum deposit requirement.²
Cons
  • No rewards.
  • Must have a Chime® Checking Account.
  • Must make a qualifying direct deposit of $200³ or more to your Chime checking account.
The Chime Credit Builder Visa Secured Card can help you build or establish credit for the first time. With no annual fee or interest charges you can learn the ropes of credit without paying an arm and a leg.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: None.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: None.
  • Perks and benefits: Build your credit without paying interest or an annual fee, or undergoing a credit check. The money you move into Credit Builder’s secured account is the amount you can spend on the card and that money can be used to pay off your monthly balances.

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. The secured Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.

¹Out of network ATM withdrawal and over the counter advance fees may apply. See here for details.

²Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.

³To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.

Best for students

Discover it® Student Chrome

Discover it® Student Chrome
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Rates & fees / Terms apply
Apply Now
On Discover’s secure website

Welcome bonus

INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.

Cashback Match

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% – 27.24% Variable APR

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Fair, New to Credit
Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No annual fee or credit score required to apply.
  • Elevated cash back at restaurants and gas stations (up to a quarterly maximum), no activation required.
  • Discover will match your earnings at the end of your first year, automatically.
Cons
  • Quarterly spending cap of $1,000 for the elevated cash-back rate.
  • Low base earning rate on other purchases.
  • Discover has limited acceptance abroad.
For those seeking a no-fuss card that doesn’t require any bonus category activation, the Discover it® Student Chrome delivers, earning elevated rewards at gas stations and restaurants, up to a quarterly cap.

Card details

  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
  • Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
  • No credit score required to apply.
  • Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
  • No annual fee and build your credit with responsible use.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 18.24% – 27.24% applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.

Best credit card for rebuilding credit scores

Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card

*

The information for the Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

None

None

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% – 32.24% (Variable)

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Limited, Fair, Good, Excellent
1% cash back on eligible purchases right away. Up to 1.5% cash back on eligible purchases after making 12 on-time monthly payments. 2% – 10% cash back at select merchants

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No annual or account opening fees.
  • No security deposit.
  • See if you’re preapproved with no impact to your credit.
Cons
  • No balance transfers allowed.
  • No welcome bonus or intro APR.
  • Complicated rewards.
The Petal 2 Visa Card (issued by WebBank) is tops as a credit-building option for its simplicity and rewards. The card is great for beginners, offering rewards and credit education tools to help you learn to manage your card responsibly without an annual price tag.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: 1% cash back right away and up to 1.5% cash back on eligible purchases after making 12 on-time monthly payments. Plus, earn 2% to 10% cash back at select merchants.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 18.24% to 32.24% variable APR.
  • Perks and benefits: The Petal 2 Visa Card is a homerun for its rewards program and ability to build credit without fees. You can track your progress towards a credit line increase with the Leap program and may see a bump in your credit line after six months of qualifying on-time payments. The Petal 2 Card has built-in security features such as fraud protection and data encryption.

Best for fair credit

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

*

The information for the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$39

Regular APR

29.99% (Variable)

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Average, Fair, Limited

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No deposit required.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Easy-to-redeem cash-back rewards.
Cons
  • $39 annual fee.
  • No low introductory APR period.
  • Low reward potential.
The Capital One QuicksilverOne Rewards Credit Card offers the same flat-rate cashback as the other Quicksilver Rewards cards and some of the other benefits, but has an annual fee. If you are likely to spend significantly more than $2,600 in a year on your card (the breakeven point where your rewards will equal your annual fee) but you don’t yet have the great credit required for top rewards cards, this may be a great choice for you.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $39.
  • Rewards: 1.5% cash back on every purchase and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 29.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers.
  • Foreign transaction fees: None.
  • Perks and benefits: Up to six months of complimentary Uber One membership, rewards don’t expire, redeem rewards as a check or a statement credit, $0 fraud liability.

Best for flat-rate rewards

Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card

*

The information for the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

28.24% variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(0 – 649) Bad, Poor
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
  • Accepts balance transfers (a balance transfer fee of 4% of the amount of each transaction applies).
  • Path to upgrade to an unsecured card.
Cons
  • Minimum security deposit of $200.
  • No meaningful perks.
With the Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured card, you can establish or rebuild your credit and still earn a solid flat cash-back rate on all eligible purchases. The card reports to all three credit bureaus and offers a path to upgrade to an unsecured card.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 28.24% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers. A balance transfer fee of 4% of each transaction applies.
  • Perks and benefits: Path to upgrade to an unsecured card, cash rewards don’t expire, $0 fraud liability and monthly FICO credit score.

Best for those starting from scratch

Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card

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The information for the Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$59

Regular APR

28.49% – 35.74% variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Fair, No Credit
2%-10% cash back at select merchants

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No credit check.
  • No deposit needed.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
Cons
  • Annual fee.
  • Potentially high interest rate.
  • You don’t know which version of Petal you’ll get approved for when you apply.
The Petal 1 Rise (issued by WebBank) gives credit builders an opportunity to build credit without forking over a large security deposit. Instead, you’ll pay a small annual membership fee and get a credit line based on a combination of your banking and credit history.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $59.
  • Rewards: 2% to 10% cash back at select merchants.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 28.49% to 35.74% variable APR.
  • Perks and benefits: Ability to earn a credit line increase in as little as six months with qualifying on-time payments, free credit score.

Best for cash back

U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card

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The information for the U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

29.99% variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(0 – 649) Bad, Poor
5% cash back on on the first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter in two categories of choice, 2% cash back on eligible purchases in choice of one everyday category (like gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants) and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Strong cash-back rewards program.
  • Ability to choose your bonus categories.
  • No annual fee.
Cons
  • Quarterly spending cap in 5% rewards category.
  • No welcome bonus or intro APR.
  • Requires a security deposit.
Who says you need good credit to earn rewards? This card makes rewards accessible to those with limited credit with its impressive cash-back rates without requiring a security deposit.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: 5% cash back on on the first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter in two categories of choice, 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Travel Center, 2% cash back on eligible purchases in choice of one everyday category (like gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants) and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 29.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfer. A balance transfer fee of either 3% of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater, applies.
  • Perks and benefits: Zero fraud liability, flexible payment due dates, ID Navigator Powered by NortonLifeLock.

Best for lower opening deposit potential

Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card

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The information for the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

29.99% (Variable)

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Limited, Bad

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Possibility of low opening deposit relative to credit line.
  • No annual fee.
  • Get preapproved with no negative impact to your credit score.
Cons
  • No rewards.
  • No welcome bonus.
  • High APR.
What makes the Capital One Platinum Secured Card unique among secured credit cards is the potential to get a $200 credit line with a $49, $99 or $200 minimum refundable deposit (which the issuer determines when you apply), plus the ability to pay your opening deposit all at once or with installments over the next 35 days.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: None.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 29.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers.
  • Perks and benefits: Free credit score from CreditWise, potentially low security deposit, ability to graduate to an unsecured credit card, reports to all three credit bureaus.

Best for newcomers to the U.S

Deserve Digital First Card™

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The information for the Deserve Digital First Card™ has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Deserve Digital First Card™

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

20.24% – 30.24% variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Limited, No credit

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Instantly add to Apple Pay.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • See if you’re approved with no impact on your credit score.
Cons
  • No physical card.
  • Balance transfers not accepted.
  • Complicated rewards structure.
As a virtual card, you can start using your Deserve Digital First Card immediately — no need to wait for a physical card to arrive in the mail. Once you’re approved, you can add the card to Apple Pay and earn rewards on your purchases.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: up to 1.5% cash back.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 20.24% to 30.24% variable APR on purchases.
  • Perks and benefits: Digital card optimized for Apple Pay, no foreign transaction or annual fees, simple application process, visual spending tracking tools.

Best for no credit check requirement

OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card

*

The information for the OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$35

Regular APR

25.64% (variable)

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

No Credit Check
Up to 10% cash back rewards on purchases at over 40,000 retailers. Cash back earned varies across retailers.

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No credit check required to apply.
  • Refundable security deposits starting at $200.
  • Reports to all three credit bureaus.
Cons
  • Annual fee.
  • No rewards program.
  • Deposit required.
The OpenSky Secured Visa Card makes it easy to build credit even if you’re starting with limited or no credit history. You don’t need a credit check or bank account to qualify for this card, and you can get your security deposit back when you close your account. Terms apply.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $35.
  • Rewards: up to 10% cash back rewards on everyday purchases from participating retailers (cash back varies across retailers).
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 25.64% variable APR on purchases.
  • Perks and benefits: Fraud protection, mobile app and ability to change payment due date once per year.

Compare the best credit cards for rebuilding your credit score

Credit Card
Credit score
Best For
Annual Fee
Welcome Bonus
Poor, Average (0 – 649)
Best for learning about credit
$0
N/A  

N/A

Fair, New to Credit
Best for students
$0
Cashback Match  

INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.

Limited, Fair, Good, Excellent
Best credit card for rebuilding credit scores
$0
None  

None

Average, Fair, Limited
Best for fair credit
$39
N/A  

N/A

Bad, Poor (0 – 649)
Best for flat-rate rewards
$0
N/A  

N/A

Fair, No Credit
Best for those starting from scratch
$59
N/A  

N/A

Bad, Poor (0 – 649)
Best for cash back
$0
N/A  

N/A

Limited, Bad
Best for lower opening deposit potential
$0
N/A  

N/A

Limited, No credit
Best for newcomers to the U.S
$0
N/A  

N/A

No Credit Check
Best for no credit check requirement
$35
N/A  

N/A

Best credit cards for rebuilding your credit of April 2024
Best for learning about credit: Secured Chime® Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card

Why this card made the list

The Secured Chime® Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card does not require a credit check to apply and reports to all three major credit bureaus, making it a great option for those first getting their feet wet with building credit. But if you have any credit history at all, you may be able to get a starter card with more benefits.

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: None.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • Foreign transaction fees: None.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: The Secured Chime® Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is not quite the same thing as a credit card in that you cannot carry a balance on it. And, you must have a Chime® Checking Account with qualifying direct deposits of $200 or more to be eligible for this card. But for those seeking a low-cost way to build credit from scratch or start over, this card is a top-notch option.
Best for students: Discover it® Student Chrome

Why this card made the list

The Discover it® Student Chrome is head-of-the-class when it comes to a credit card for students due to its lack of an annual fee, its intro APR period on purchases and its rewards in categories many students are likely to spend on. Just know you’ll need to show proof of enrollment when you apply.

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Welcome bonus: Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first cardmember year.
  • Foreign transaction fees: None.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: The Discover it® Student Chrome allows you to build credit while earning rewards and gaining access to various features such as free FICO Score monitoring and identity theft protection. This is the only card on our list with a 0% intro APR on purchases and 10.99% intro APR on balance transfers for 6 months, then a variable APR of 18.24% to 27.24% applies. There’s a 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms) and a cash-back match at the end of your first year.
Best credit card for rebuilding credit scores: Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card *

The information for the Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Why this card made the list

With no annual fee and no security deposit required, as well as a solid rewards program, the Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card * The information for the Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , issued by WebBank, is an excellent choice for starting your credit journey or improving your credit score.

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: 1% cash back right away and up to 1.5% cash back on eligible purchases after making 12 on-time monthly payments. Plus, earn 2% to 10% cash back at select merchants.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • Foreign transaction fees: $0.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: See if you’re preapproved with no credit check, earn a credit line increase in as little as six months with qualifying on-time payments, track your credit score in the mobile app.
Best for fair credit: Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card *

The information for the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Why this card made the list

The $39 annual fee may put some people off the QuicksilverOne, but this unsecured card’s small annual fee might be preferable to putting down a larger security deposit on a secured card.

  • Annual fee: $39.
  • Rewards: Unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • Foreign transaction fees: None.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: The QuicksilverOne Card comes with standard Capital One benefits, such as free credit score monitoring with CreditWise and $0 fraud liability if your card is lost or stolen. Plus, cardholders can enjoy complimentary Uber One membership for up to six months (offer valid until November 2024). Just know this card is aimed at those with fair credit, so applicants with poor credit aren’t likely to get approved.
Best for flat-rate rewards: Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card *

The information for the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Why this card made the list

Say goodbye to complicated rewards programs with the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card * The information for the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. . This card lets you establish and build credit while earning some rewards, too.

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • Foreign transaction fees: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each transaction.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card * The information for the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. can help you rebuild or establish credit for the first time while earning unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. Since it’s a secured card, it requires a deposit between $200 and $5,000.
Best for those starting from scratch: Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card *

The information for the Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Why this card made the list

The Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card * The information for the Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , issued by WebBank, was designed for credit builders who may not otherwise qualify for a Petal credit card. In exchange for the modest annual fee, you’ll get a credit limit ranging from $500 to $3,500 depending on creditworthiness, and Petal will report your spending and payment activities to the three major consumer credit bureaus.

  • Annual fee: $59.
  • Rewards: 2% to 10% cash back at select merchants.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • Foreign transaction fees: None.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: The Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card * The information for the Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. is a solid option for those looking to repair or establish credit. There is potential to grow with this card, as you may be able to receive a credit line increase after just six months of responsible use. But know the card does have a $59 annual fee and a higher APR range than some of the other cards on our list.
Best for cash back: U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card *

The information for the U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Why this card made the list

If you’re looking to build credit and earn rewards at the same time, it’s hard to beat the U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card * The information for the U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. . This card has a robust rewards program, offering top-notch cash-back rates on purchases that fall within your selected bonus categories

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: 5% cash back on on the first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter in two categories of choice, 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Travel Center, 2% cash back on eligible purchases in choice of one everyday category (like gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants) and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • Foreign transaction fees: 3% of each foreign transaction.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: The card has great earning potential for those who are willing to put in the work of tracking categories and opting in each quarter, but for those who are new to credit cards, the rewards structure might be too confusing. If you’re a frequent traveler, you may want to consider other options since this card has a 3% of each foreign transaction fee for international transactions.
Best for lower opening deposit potential: Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card *

The information for the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Why this card made the list

The main benefit of this card over others in its class is its less-stringent approach to ponying up the funds for a security deposit. You can pay off the opening deposit over a period of 35 days and you may even get approved for a $49 or $99 opening deposit for a $200 credit limit.

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: None.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • Foreign transaction fee: None.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: The Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card * The information for the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. is a great option for those looking for a secured card with a low deposit amount. The minimum deposit will be $49, $99 or $200—if you’re approved, the issuer will let you know your required deposit—and are fully refundable in most cases. You can see if you’re preapproved with no impact to your credit score. Beware that the card has a relatively high APR compared to other cards on our list at 29.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers.
Best for newcomers to the U.S: Deserve Digital First Card™ *

The information for the Deserve Digital First Card™ has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Why this card made the list

The Deserve Digital First Card™ * The information for the Deserve Digital First Card™ has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. was tailor-made for those starting to build credit who are glued to their phones. The card comes with a robust app with visual tools to help make it easier to understand your spending habits, the potential cost to carry a balance and how your rewards work.

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: up to 1.5% cash back.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • Foreign transaction fees: None.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: The Deserve Digital First Card™ * The information for the Deserve Digital First Card™ has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. is a solid rewards card with no annual fee and a mobile-first approach that will please tech-savvy consumers. However, its tiered rewards structure can be complicated for credit newbies.
Best for no credit check requirement: OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card *

The information for the OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Why this card made the list

When your credit isn’t great, it’s crucial to avoid any activity that might further affect your score negatively. Since the OpenSky Secured Visa doesn’t require a credit check to apply, you won’t have to worry about getting dinged by the hard credit inquiry that’s usually part of applying for a credit card.

  • Annual fee: $35.
  • Rewards: up to 10% cash back rewards on everyday purchases from participating retailers (cash back varies across retailers).
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • Foreign transaction fee: 3% of each Transaction in U.S. dollars.
  • Other benefits and drawbacks: OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card * The information for the OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. is a top choice for cards with no credit check requirement. That means no matter how your credit profile looks, with this card, you’ll have a chance to rebuild your credit. (But know that as with any credit application, approval is not guaranteed). Since it’s a secured card, you must pay a deposit — an amount starting with a minimum of $200. Your deposit is refundable and FDIC-insured.

Methodology

Our credit cards team has spent hours analyzing hundreds of credit cards. We took a deep dive into the details of each product, and that analysis, combined with our years of experience covering credit cards, informed us as we developed these credit card rankings. In looking at the best first cards to build credit, we considered:

  • Annual fees.
  • Eligibility for approval based on credit history and financial circumstances.
  • If a card reports to all three of the major consumer credit bureaus.
  • If the card offers a chance to increase your credit line with good payment behavior.
  • Any other benefits or perks that might come with a card designed for those seeking to rebuild their credit profile.

Should you get a credit card for rebuilding your credit score?

Credit cards are some of the best tools available for rebuilding or establishing credit. Most card issuers report to the three major consumer credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) monthly, allowing you to demonstrate responsible credit use by making on-time payments and maintaining low credit card balances. If you use your credit card properly, you could see a boost to your credit score within a few months.

Some cards are easier to get with bad credit than others. For example, secured cards—which require you to submit a security deposit to the issuer—tend to have higher approval odds than unsecured cards. It’s also worth noting that credit cards that offer balance transfers or 0% intro APR periods may require higher credit scores than those that don’t.

If your credit is very poor, a secured credit card may be your only option. Secured credit cards are just like regular credit cards, except they require you to pay an upfront security deposit. This deposit reduces the risk of the card issuer extending a line of credit to you, because the issuer can confiscate the deposit if you don’t pay what you owe on the card. Read the fine print to determine whether the deposit is refundable and to avoid predatory terms like excessive fees and APRs.

Guide to credit cards for rebuilding your credit score

“Understanding all your options is so important to your financial wellness. This is particularly true for people with blemished credit history, who have the most to lose by choosing the first company to approve their application, ” says Jim Triggs, President & CEO of Money Management International, a member of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling® (NFCC®), the nation’s largest nonprofit financial counseling organization.

How do you know if you have bad credit?

The best way to determine if you have bad credit is to check your credit score. You can check your credit score using a free credit score site or by requesting it from the three main credit scoring bureaus—Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

Be aware that you are entitled to a free credit report from each of these three agencies weekly via annualcreditreport.com, but your credit report does not contain your score. However, it does have a detailed picture of your open and closed lines of credit, and reviewing your reports allows you to spot any errors that may be affecting your score.

Credit scores typically range from 300 to 850 on the FICO scoring model. The higher your score, the more responsible you appear to lenders.

These are the credit score ranges according to FICO:

  • 800 and above: Excellent 
  • 740-799: Very good
  • 670-739: Good
  • 580-669: Fair
  • 300-579: Poor

With a score in the 300 to 500 range, you may have trouble getting approved for an unsecured credit card and you may need to start with a secured card. 

Factors that could cause bad credit

There are many reasons one may have bad credit.

Late payments 

According to FICO, your payment history composes 35% of your credit score. That means if you’re making your payments on time, you should see a boost to your score. On the other hand, missing payments can severely impact your score and remain on your report for up to seven years. However, the impact will diminish over time with responsible card use.

Using too much of your credit limit 

The amount you owe on your cards, also known as the credit utilization rate, makes up 30% of your credit score. The more you use your credit limit, the harsher the impact on your score. For example, let’s say your credit card has a $500 limit. If you spend $500, that’s a 100% credit utilization rate, which negatively impacts your credit score. When rebuilding credit, it’s best to use as little of your available limit as possible. 

Hard inquiries 

You may see a slight ding on your credit score each time you apply for a new loan or credit card. Credit applications result in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which is why you want to limit the amount of new credit you take out at once. It’s best to keep hard inquiries to a minimum, since multiple inquiries in a short span of time can indicate to a lender that you’re desperate for credit. New credit makes up 10% of your FICO Score.

Types of credit cards for users with bad credit

There are two major types of credit cards for those with bad credit.

  • Secured credit cards: Secured credit cards function just like regular credit cards, except they require a security deposit. The amount of the deposit varies, and in many cases, the deposit amount sets your credit limit. For example, if you deposit $200, you’ll have a $200 credit limit. Note that you still have to pay off any spending you put on the card. The deposit does not constitute payment, but rather provides security for the issuer in case you don’t pay back what you put on the card. Some card will issuers automatically consider you for an unsecured card after six to 12 on-time monthly payments.
  • Unsecured credit cards: Unsecured cards tend to have higher credit limits and better perks than secured cards but are harder to get approved for since they don’t require a security deposit. People in the “fair” credit score range have better approval odds for unsecured credit cards than those in the “poor” credit score range. If you come across an unsecured card willing to approve you despite a bad credit score, exercise caution—it may be a subprime credit card with a sky-high APR and expensive fees.

How to compare credit cards for bad credit

There are several factors to consider when comparing credit cards for bad credit.

  • Fees: You want to avoid credit cards that charge excessive fees or lack transparency around their fees. No-fee credit cards are generally preferable to cards with fees. However, cards with fees are still worth considering if your goal is to build credit.
  • APR: The interest rates on credit cards for rebuilding credit tend to be higher than the rates on regular credit cards to account for the added risk. Credit-builder cards generally have variable APRs between 17% and 30%. Your rate is based on your creditworthiness when you apply for a card. 
  • Preapproval: A preapproval option is helpful for those with bad credit, so you can check your likelihood of a successful application without impacting your credit. Preapproval applications don’t impact your credit since they aren’t considered hard inquiries. Just know that even if you receive preapproval, you’ll typically still have to undergo a hard inquiry if you decide to actually apply for the card.
  • Rewards and intro offer: Though your main goal is building credit, rewards and intro offers are worth considering. For example, a credit-builder card with any type of cash back is a win-win. However, your priority should be using credit responsibly, not spending to get rewards. Intro offers, such as welcome bonuses and 0% intro APR, are less common with credit-builder cards, and the cards with these offers have more stringent approval requirements.

How to get a credit card for bad credit

If you want a credit card to help you rebuild your credit, the first step is to check your credit score to determine the exact number. A score in the 600s will provide more flexibility than a score in the 300s or 400s, but there are options no matter what your score is. Some cards don’t require a credit score at all. You can view your credit score for free through Experian or Equifax or purchase it through TransUnion. There are also online services that offer free credit scores, although they may request you sign up for their mailing list or have other requirements. 

Steps to boosting your credit score with a credit card

Once you have a credit card, you must use it responsibly in order to see progress. The two keys to responsible credit use are making your monthly payments on time and keeping your credit utilization as low as possible. Many see a boost to their credit score by charging a small amount to their card and then paying it off right away. For example, if you have a credit card with a $300 limit, buy an item for $10 or $20, then pay it off immediately. 

Know that you do not need to roll over a balance from month to month to build credit. As long as you’re making purchases on your card and making on-time payments, and your issuer reports your activity to the credit bureaus, you’ll build credit without ever needing to carry a balance.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

The first thing to do is check your credit to understand the credit range you fall in. There’s a difference between the types of cards someone with a 300 score vs. someone with a 600 score can get approved for. If you have an existing credit or debit card that offers free credit monitoring, use that to check your credit score. When applying for a secured credit card, make sure you have the money for the deposit. 

While filling out the credit card application, you’ll need to provide details on the form such as your name, address,and Social Security number as well as income and other financial information.

A secured card is one of the best ways to build credit when used responsibly. Secured cards help you build credit because each time you pay your bill on time, it reflects positively on your credit report. When comparing secured credit cards, choose one that reports your payment activity to the three main credit bureaus: TransUnion, Equifax and Experian.

Like a regular credit card, it is possible to be denied a secured credit card, especially if you’re in the process of or have a recent bankruptcy filing. If you’re concerned about being denied, consider credit cards that don’t require credit checks or offer preapproval with no impact on your credit.

Secured credit cards are generally easier to get approved for than unsecured credit cards since secured cards require deposits, which protect the issuer if you default on what you owe.

It depends. If you apply for an unsecured credit card with bad credit, you will likely have a small credit limit, at least to start. The exact credit limit varies by the card issuer and depends on your credit history, income and other factors at the time of your application.

*The information for the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card, Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card, Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card, Deserve Digital First Card™, OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card, Petal® 1 Rise Visa® Credit Card, Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card and U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Theresa Stevens is a personal finance writer based in Boston, MA. As a former financial advisor, she has first-hand experience helping people solve their money challenges. When she's not writing, you'll find her trying out new karaoke spots or planning her next trip abroad.

Robin Saks Frankel is a credit cards lead editor at USA TODAY Blueprint. Previously, she was a credit cards and personal finance deputy editor for Forbes Advisor. She has also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She's been featured as a personal finance expert in outlets including CNBC, Business Insider, CBS Marketplace, NASDAQ's Trade Talks and has appeared on or contributed to The New York Times, Fox News, CBS Radio, ABC Radio, NPR, International Business Times and NBC, ABC and CBS TV affiliates nationwide. She holds an M.S. in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University. Follow her on Twitter at @robinsaks.