Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit in 2026
Disclaimer
All data, ratings, and information on this page are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please consult a qualified financial professional before making any financial decisions.
Having a low credit score doesn't mean you're locked out of credit cards entirely. Several cards are specifically designed for consumers with bad or limited credit, offering a path to rebuild your score while still providing useful features. The key is choosing the right card and using it responsibly.
We've evaluated the top credit cards available to applicants with credit scores below 640, focusing on approval likelihood, fees, credit-building features, and overall value.
Types of Credit Cards for Bad Credit
Before choosing a card, it helps to understand the two main categories:
- Secured credit cards: Require a refundable security deposit (typically $200–$500) that becomes your credit limit. These are the easiest to get approved for and are ideal for rebuilding credit from scratch.
- Unsecured cards for bad credit: Don't require a deposit but often come with higher fees and lower credit limits. Approval isn't guaranteed, and the terms are less favorable than cards for good credit.
Our Top Picks
Best Secured Cards
1. Discover it Secured Card
The Discover it Secured Card stands out as the best overall option for rebuilding credit. Unlike most secured cards, it offers real cashback rewards — 2% at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 quarterly), and 1% on everything else.
Key details:
- Minimum deposit: $200
- Annual fee: $0
- Rewards: 2% cashback at gas/restaurants, 1% everywhere else
- Credit bureau reporting: All three bureaus
- Automatic upgrade review after 7 months of responsible use
Why we like it: It's the only secured card that offers meaningful rewards and has no annual fee. Discover also matches all cashback earned in your first year, effectively doubling your rewards. After demonstrating responsible use, Discover may automatically upgrade you to an unsecured card and refund your deposit.
2. Capital One Platinum Secured Card
Capital One's secured offering is notable for its low minimum deposit and the possibility of getting a higher credit limit than your deposit amount, depending on your creditworthiness.
Key details:
- Minimum deposit: $49–$200 (varies by applicant)
- Annual fee: $0
- Rewards: None
- Credit bureau reporting: All three bureaus
- Automatic credit line increase consideration after 6 months
Why we like it: The potentially lower deposit makes it accessible if you're short on cash. Capital One also reviews your account for a credit line increase (with no additional deposit) after just six months, which is faster than most competitors.
3. OpenSky Secured Visa
The OpenSky card is one of the few secured cards that doesn't require a credit check at all — making it ideal for applicants who've been denied elsewhere or who have no credit history whatsoever.
Key details:
- Minimum deposit: $200 (up to $3,000)
- Annual fee: $35
- Rewards: None
- Credit bureau reporting: All three bureaus
- No credit check required
Why we like it: If you've been denied for other secured cards, OpenSky is virtually guaranteed approval since there's no credit check. The $35 annual fee is the trade-off for this accessibility. It's a solid stepping stone for people with very damaged credit who need to start somewhere.
Best Unsecured Cards for Bad Credit
4. Capital One Quicksilver Secured (with upgrade path)
While technically a secured card, Capital One frequently transitions responsible cardholders to unsecured products within 6–12 months, making this an effective bridge to unsecured credit.
Key details:
- Minimum deposit: $49–$200
- Annual fee: $0
- Rewards: 1.5% unlimited cashback
- Upgrade path to unsecured Quicksilver card
Why we like it: You get real, unlimited rewards from day one and a clear path to a premium unsecured card. The 1.5% flat rate means you earn on every purchase without tracking categories.
5. Credit One Bank Visa for Rebuilding Credit
Credit One offers unsecured cards to consumers with fair-to-poor credit. While the terms aren't as generous as cards for good credit, the 1% cashback on eligible purchases adds some value.
Key details:
- No security deposit required
- Annual fee: $0–$75 (varies by applicant)
- Rewards: 1% cashback on eligible purchases
- Credit bureau reporting: All three bureaus
- Pre-qualification available without hard inquiry
Why we like it: True unsecured credit for bad credit applicants, with cashback rewards. Pre-qualification lets you check your odds before applying, protecting your credit score from unnecessary hard inquiries.
How to Rebuild Your Credit Score
Getting the card is step one. Here's how to use it effectively:
- Keep utilization below 30%: If your credit limit is $500, try not to carry a balance above $150. Under 10% is even better.
- Pay on time, every time: Payment history is the single biggest factor in your credit score (35%). Set up autopay for at least the minimum payment.
- Don't apply for multiple cards at once: Each application triggers a hard inquiry that temporarily lowers your score. Space applications at least 6 months apart.
- Use the card regularly: Small, recurring charges (like a streaming subscription) that you pay off monthly show consistent, responsible use.
- Monitor your score: Many cards and banks offer free credit score monitoring. Track your progress monthly to stay motivated.
What to Watch Out For
Cards for bad credit often come with less favorable terms. Be aware of these common pitfalls:
- High APRs: Interest rates on bad credit cards typically range from 25%–30%. Always pay your balance in full to avoid interest charges.
- Hidden fees: Some cards charge monthly maintenance fees, annual fees, or even processing fees. Read the terms carefully before applying.
- Low credit limits: Starting limits may be as low as $200–$500. This makes it easy to accidentally hit high utilization ratios.
- Predatory offers: Be cautious of cards that advertise “guaranteed approval” with very high fees or require you to call a premium-rate phone number. Stick with well-known issuers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need for a secured credit card?
Most secured cards accept applicants with scores below 580, and some (like OpenSky) don't check your credit at all. The security deposit reduces the issuer's risk, so approval requirements are much lower than unsecured cards.
How long does it take to rebuild credit with a secured card?
With consistent on-time payments and low utilization, most people see meaningful credit score improvement within 6–12 months. Moving from “bad” to “fair” credit typically takes about a year of responsible use.
Will I get my security deposit back?
Yes — your security deposit is refundable. You'll get it back when you close the account in good standing or when your issuer upgrades you to an unsecured card. Make sure your balance is paid off before closing.
Can I get a credit card with no credit history?
Yes. Secured credit cards are designed for exactly this situation. Student credit cards are another option if you're currently enrolled in college. Both report to all three credit bureaus and help establish your credit file.
Should I get a store credit card to build credit?
Store cards are generally easier to get approved for, but they come with very high interest rates (often 25%+) and can only be used at that retailer. A general-purpose secured card is usually a better choice for building credit since it's more versatile and often has better terms.