One of the toughest times to get a credit card is when you have bad credit or no credit at all. The trouble is, you often need a credit card to start building a good credit history, but you also need a good credit history to get approved for many credit cards. If you can't get approved for a traditional credit card, a secured credit card is an alternative worth considering.
Learn how secured credit cards work and whether one is a good fit for you.
Key Takeaways
- Secured credit cards require a deposit.
- It's easier to be approved for a secured credit card than for an unsecured one.
- Secured credit cards may have higher interest rates and more fees than unsecured cards.
What Is a Secured Credit Card?
Secured credit cards require a deposit that serves as collateral for purchases you make using the card. If you default on your payments, the card issuer keeps your deposit. Otherwise, as long as you keep your account in good standing,your credit card issuer will return your deposit to you after a certain number of months or when you close your account.
Note
The credit limit on your secured credit card typically will be equal to your security deposit. In some cases, your credit limit can be bigger than your security deposit, depending on the card you choose and your credit rating.
How Does a Secured Credit Card Work?
You can use the secured credit card just like you'd use any other credit card. Swipe it for purchases up to your credit limit, and make timely payments toward your balance each month. The application process is also the same as a traditional credit card. Card issuers review your credit history. If you're approved, you pay your security deposit.
Pros and Cons of Secured Credit Cards
Pros
Typically reported to credit bureaus.
Can help you establish or re-establish credit.
Your security deposit is only used if you default.
You may be able to earn rewards.
Easier to get approved
Cons
It can be difficult to come up with the security deposit.
There may be other fees such as a maintenance fee and annual fee.
You may pay a higher interest rate.
Pros Explained
Secured credit cards can be a good option for building or rebuilding your credit. Five benefits stand out for consumers with blemished credit or no credit at all.
- You can often get approved for a secured credit card when you can't get approved for a traditional credit card. Paying the security deposit shifts the credit risk away from the credit card issuer.
- They typically report to credit bureaus. Unlike a prepaid credit card which functions more like a debit card, a secured credit card will send your account history to the credit bureaus to be included in your credit report.
- A secured credit card can help you establish or re-establish your credit. Since payments are included in your credit report, paying on time and managing your balance will help improve your credit score. After raising your credit score, you may be able to qualify for a regular credit card.
- Your security deposit is used only if you default on your payment. Unless your defaulted balance is more than your deposit, you won't get sent to collections for defaulting on your payments. Though the card issuer will keep your deposit, you don't have to worry about debt collectors hounding you for missed payments on the card. The late payments still will hurt your credit score, however.
- You can earn rewards on purchases with some cards, such as Discover and Navy Federal's secured cards.
Cons Explained
While secured credit cards can be appealing for those who are trying to improve their credit scores, there still are a few disadvantages.
- It might be difficult to come up with even a couple of hundred dollars to make a security deposit. If you do have that money, it might be better spent paying off some outstanding debt. Try setting aside $25 to $50 each month until you've saved up enough for the security deposit.
- There may be fees in addition to the deposit. Depending on the card you choose, you might have to pay an application fee, processing fee, or an annual fee to have your secured credit card. This increases the cost of having the card. Shop around and select the card with the lowest fees.
- You may have to pay a higher interest rate. Secured credit cards don't usually offer competitive interest rates because of the risk of default. To avoid high finance charges, pay your balance in full each month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which banks offer secured credit cards?
Many banks and card issuers offer secured credit cards. If you have a preferred bank, consider asking whether they offer a secured credit card. Don't apply for a card without digging into the terms and conditions, however. Look at the APR, fees, and whether you can be transitioned to an unsecured card in the future.
What are the top-rated secured credit cards?
The Discover it Secured card, the Secured Mastercard from Capital One, and the Secured Visa from Merrick Bank are highly rated secured credit cards. Discover it Secured offers cashback rewards. The Secured Mastercard from Capital One has a low deposit requirement. The Secured Visa from Merrick Bank has a relatively low APR.
How do secured credit cards help you build credit?
Card issuers report your payment history and credit utilization to the credit bureaus. Paying on time and keeping a low balance on your card can improve your credit score. The key to using a secured credit card to build credit is to use it responsibly.
