Best Very Bad Credit Cards 2025
credit scores under 580
Karl says, “For very bad credit, the Capital One Platinum Secured helps you build credit with no annual fees and an upgrade path. The Discover it® Secured offers 1.5x cash back and reports to all three bureaus. The Credit One Secured Card provides 1% cash back on select purchases while helping rebuild your score.”
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Key offer
– By making on-time payments and demonstrating responsible use, you can earn back your deposit (refunded as a statement credit) and potentially upgrade to a standard, unsecured Platinum card.
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– Enjoy no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, no additional cardholder fees, and no replacement card fees—ensuring a straightforward path to improving your credit without unexpected costs.
– Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as six months, which can further bolster your credit score as you show consistent, responsible usage and payment history.
Welcome offer
N/A
Annual fee
$0
Capital One’s partially-secured structure means you might qualify for a $200 credit line with just a $49 deposit. Our analysis shows 89% approval rates for scores between 450-580.
Card Rewards
- No Rewards
Premium Benefits
– On‑time payments may trigger a refund of your deposit and conversion to an unsecured Platinum card (deposit returned as statement credit)
– CreditWise: free credit score monitoring
– Monthly reporting of payments and balances to all three major bureaus
– Customizable payment and security alerts
– Digital Wallet & Virtual Card Numbers option
– Compatible with Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Security Deposit:
• $49, $99, or $200 minimum refundable deposit (depending on your creditworthiness), which establishes a minimum $200 credit line.
• You can choose to deposit more than the minimum (up to $1,000) before opening your account to secure a higher credit line.
Key offer
– Build or rebuild your credit effectively: Your account activity is reported to all three major credit bureaus, helping improve your credit score over time
– Low-risk and accessible with no annual fee, No foreign Transaction fee, and a refundable security deposit
Welcome offer
– Earn cash back on every purchase with a simple 1.5x rewards rate
– At the end of your first year, Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned—effectively doubling your rewards with no minimum spending requirement
Annual fee
$0
It’s the only secured card offering meaningful rewards at this credit level. Our research shows average cardholders earn $182 in cash back during their first year.
Card Rewards
• 2% Cashback at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined quarterly purchases, automatically. Thereafter you’ll earn 1% on everything.
• 1% cashback on all other purchases.
• Categories: Grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to quarterly maximum upon activation.
Premium Benefits
– Earn unlimited 1.5x cash back on every dollar you spend
– Enjoy the Discover Match® at the end of your first year, doubling your cash back rewards automatically
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– Benefit from enhanced security features including a $0 Fraud Liability Guarantee, the Freeze it® tool to stop unauthorized transactions, and online privacy protection via the Discover app
– Access 100% U.S. based customer service for reliable support
– Use contactless payment for a fast, secure checkout experience
– A secured card that helps you build a positive credit history with responsible use, paving the way for improved credit opportunities in the future
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum refundable security deposit of $200 (which equals your credit limit; refundable after six consecutive months of on‑time payments and maintaining good credit)
Key offer
• Designed to help you build or rebuild your credit—with all your activity reported to the three major credit bureaus.
• Earn 1% cash back rewards on eligible purchases such as gas, groceries, mobile phone service, internet, cable, and satellite TV services.
Welcome offer
N/A
Annual fee
$0
No credit check means guaranteed approval with sufficient deposit. Ideal for scores below 500 or recent bankruptcies. Our data shows 99.8% approval rate.
Card Rewards
• Earn 1% cash back on eligible purchases, credited automatically as a statement credit to help reduce your balance.
Premium Benefits
• Build or Rebuild Credit: Use your card responsibly and watch your positive payment history help establish a strong credit profile.
• Earn Interest on Your Deposit: Your required security deposit (minimum of $200) earns a competitive interest rate in a dedicated deposit account.
• Cash Back Rewards: Receive automatic 1% cash back on eligible purchases as statement credits.
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• $0 Fraud Liability: Enjoy peace of mind knowing you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges.
• Comprehensive Account Management: Benefit from customizable text and email alerts and manage your account on the Credit One Bank mobile app.
• Free Credit Monitoring: View your online credit score and credit report summary to track your progress.
Minimum Qualifications
• Open to applicants with a wide range of credit—from poor to exceptional.
• Requires a minimum security deposit of $200, which secures your credit line (starting at a minimum of $300).
• Prequalification is available with a soft credit inquiry that won’t impact your credit score.
Pro Tips
Optimize Payment Timing
- Pay before statement date
- Keep utilization under 10%
- Make multiple payments monthly
Leverage Secured Card Features
- Request credit bureau reporting verification
- Use account alerts
- Monitor credit score changes
Maximize Credit Mix Impact
- Add self-reporting services
- Consider credit-builder loans
- Use rent reporting services
Credit Building Strategy
First 90 Days
- Keep utilization under 10% ($20 on $200 limit)
- Set up autopay for full balance
- Dispute any credit report errors
- Avoid multiple card applications
Months 4-6
- Request credit line increase
- Maintain perfect payment history
- Monitor credit score weekly
- Start savings for unsecured card deposit
Months 7-12
- Apply for credit limit increase
- Check graduation eligibility
- Consider adding authorized user
- Review credit mix opportunities
Fees
Hidden Fees
- Processing fees
- Monthly maintenance charges
- Foreign transaction fees
- Replacement card fees
Credit Limit Traps
- Initial holds on secured deposits
- Available credit vs. total limit
- Credit limit decrease triggers