10 Best Credit Cards
Introduction
Having bad credit doesn’t mean your financial journey is over — it means you need the right tools to rebuild. Credit cards, when used responsibly, are among the most powerful ways to repair a poor credit score. Why? Because they directly impact two of the biggest factors in your credit profile: payment history (35%) and credit utilization (30%).
By paying on time every month and keeping your balance low, you’re showing lenders that you can be trusted again. Even if you’ve gone through tough situations like late payments, defaults, or bankruptcy, there are still solid options available. Secured credit cards and rebuilding cards are designed specifically to help people with bad credit get back on track.
But not all cards are equal. Some are packed with hidden fees, while others offer real benefits such as cash back rewards, low deposits, and graduation paths to unsecured cards. That’s why knowing which credit card to choose is critical.
This guide is designed to be your ultimate roadmap for 2025. We’ll cover:
- The 10 best credit cards for bad credit this year.
- Step-by-step instructions to rebuild your credit score.
- Practical strategies to avoid common mistakes.
- A comparison table so you can see which card fits your needs.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which card to apply for, how to use it, and how long it will realistically take before your score improves. Remember: rebuilding credit is not about quick hacks — it’s about smart strategy, patience, and consistency. With the right card in your wallet, you’ll be on the path to financial freedom, lower interest rates, and bigger opportunities.
Discover it® Secured — The All-Around Winner
Discover it® Secured stands out as one of the strongest options for building or rebuilding credit because it combines the reliability of a secured card with real rewards. One of its most attractive features is the lack of an annual fee, making it accessible to those who want to improve credit without incurring extra costs. On top of that, it offers cash back rewards on everyday purchases, a rare feature among secured cards. This allows users to earn while building credit, which adds real value over time.
The card reports to all three major credit bureaus, ensuring that every on-time payment contributes to a positive credit history. With consistent responsible use, cardholders may qualify for an upgrade to an unsecured Discover card, providing further opportunities for higher credit limits and additional benefits. While it requires a refundable security deposit, the advantages of rewards and the path to unsecured credit outweigh this initial step. It is ideal for individuals who want a card that not only builds credit but also provides tangible rewards and a clear path toward long-term credit growth. The Discover it® Secured card combines security, benefits, and a straightforward way to develop credit with a reliable framework for future financial progress.
Capital One Platinum Secured — Best for Low Deposit
Capital One Platinum Secured is ideal for applicants seeking flexibility in security deposits. Its standout feature is the ability to start with a smaller deposit, which makes it accessible for those just beginning to build or rebuild credit. This low-deposit option allows cardholders to open a credit account with limited financial risk while still establishing a solid credit history. The card also provides automatic account reviews, which can lead to higher credit limits as responsible use continues.
The absence of an annual fee makes this card a practical choice for beginners or those who prefer not to pay additional costs. While starting credit limits may be modest, the combination of low entry requirements and ongoing credit-building potential makes it a strong contender. This card is well-suited for individuals who need a flexible start and plan to grow their credit responsibly. Capital One Platinum Secured offers a structured way to begin credit building with manageable requirements and clear opportunities for future growth, making it a reliable choice for cautious and strategic applicants.
OpenSky® Secured Visa® — Best for Easy Approval
OpenSky® Secured Visa® is designed for individuals with low credit scores or limited credit history who may struggle with traditional credit approvals. Its primary advantage is that it does not require a credit check for approval, offering easy access to credit for those with past credit challenges or financial difficulties. This makes it a valuable tool for rebuilding credit without the stress of rejection based on prior credit issues.
The card reports to all three major credit bureaus, ensuring that on-time payments contribute to building a positive credit record. While it has an annual fee and does not offer rewards, the simplicity of approval and the ability to start building credit immediately outweigh these limitations. OpenSky® Secured Visa® is particularly suitable for applicants who need a straightforward solution to rebuild their credit profile without additional hurdles. It offers a clear path for establishing or restoring credit while providing the structure needed to develop responsible financial habits. This card is a practical, no-frills choice for those seeking quick access to credit.
Self Visa® Secured / Credit Builder — Best Combo Strategy
The Self Visa® Secured card combines a credit-builder loan with a secured card, allowing individuals to build both revolving and installment credit simultaneously. This dual approach is particularly effective for people looking to establish a comprehensive credit history, as it demonstrates responsible management across multiple types of credit accounts. The card encourages disciplined financial behavior through structured payments, helping cardholders develop strong financial habits.
While it requires consistent monthly payments and small associated loan fees, the benefits include building two types of credit and fostering long-term financial growth. The structured savings component helps users gradually build funds while simultaneously improving credit. Self Visa® Secured is ideal for individuals committed to a deliberate strategy for credit improvement, offering the tools needed to achieve meaningful progress. By combining a secured card with a credit-builder loan, it provides a powerful method to rebuild or establish credit while cultivating disciplined financial practices and measurable growth over time.
Credit One Bank Platinum — Best Unsecured Option
Credit One Bank Platinum offers an unsecured credit option for individuals with poor or limited credit. Unlike secured cards, applicants do not need a security deposit, which allows access to credit for those who may not have available funds for collateral. Some versions of the card provide rewards, giving cardholders an additional incentive for responsible usage. It reports to the major credit bureaus, ensuring that on-time payments contribute to credit improvement.
Despite higher interest rates and potential fees, the card serves as a stepping stone for people who cannot qualify for secured credit. It is best suited for applicants who need unsecured access to credit and are willing to manage higher costs while rebuilding or establishing a credit profile. Credit One Bank Platinum balances accessibility with the opportunity to develop credit history, providing a valuable tool for individuals aiming to regain financial stability and prepare for future credit opportunities.
Petal® 1 Visa — For Limited or Bad Credit
Petal® 1 Visa uses alternative underwriting methods, such as income and cash flow, rather than relying solely on credit scores. This approach opens doors for applicants with thin credit files or poor credit histories, allowing them to access credit even if they do not meet traditional requirements. The card does not require a security deposit and carries no annual fee, making it accessible and cost-effective.
Approval is contingent on steady income, but those who qualify can begin building credit without upfront costs. Petal® 1 Visa reports to the major credit bureaus, helping responsible users establish a solid credit record. It is particularly suited for individuals who are improving their credit or starting from scratch, offering a modern approach to credit building that rewards financial responsibility rather than past credit challenges.
Chime Credit Builder Visa® — Best for No Fees
Chime Credit Builder works as a secured card linked to a Chime account but offers fee-free usage, making it an excellent choice for individuals who want to build credit without incurring costs. There is no minimum deposit required, and no interest is charged on balances, providing flexibility and accessibility for new credit users. Payments can be adjusted according to the user’s financial situation, offering a low-pressure environment for credit building.
The card reports activity to major credit bureaus, so responsible use contributes to a positive credit history. Chime Credit Builder is best for those seeking a straightforward, cost-free way to establish or rebuild credit while avoiding unnecessary fees or complex terms. It allows users to focus on building a strong credit foundation without the burden of additional costs, making it an ideal starting point for anyone new to credit.
Navy Federal Credit Union nRewards® Secured — Best for Military Families
The Navy Federal Credit Union nRewards® Secured card is designed for military members and their families, offering rewards and a clear path to unsecured credit. Cardholders earn points on purchases, providing tangible benefits in addition to credit-building opportunities. The card features reasonable interest rates and reports to the major credit bureaus, ensuring that responsible use strengthens credit history.
Eligibility requires membership in Navy Federal Credit Union, making it particularly suited for military families. The card provides a clear path to upgrading to unsecured credit, allowing for long-term growth in credit access and rewards potential. It is ideal for military members who want a card that offers both credit-building benefits and meaningful rewards.
Citi® Secured Mastercard® — Best for Simple, No-Frills Rebuilding
Citi® Secured Mastercard® is a straightforward option for those focused purely on rebuilding credit. It does not offer rewards or perks, allowing cardholders to concentrate on responsible use without distractions. The card reports to all three major credit bureaus, ensuring that on-time payments contribute to a solid credit history.
While it requires a security deposit, the simplicity of the card makes it ideal for applicants who want a no-frills approach to rebuilding credit. There are no hidden fees, making it a transparent option for anyone seeking predictable terms. Citi® Secured Mastercard® is suitable for individuals who want to focus entirely on improving their credit profile with a clean, simple tool.
First Progress Platinum Prestige Secured Mastercard® — Best for Low APR
First Progress Platinum Prestige Secured Mastercard® is designed for applicants who may occasionally carry balances and want lower ongoing interest rates. The card allows for flexible deposits, making it accessible to a variety of users. Its lower APR compared to other secured cards reduces the cost of carrying balances, while it continues to report to the major credit bureaus to support credit-building efforts.
Although it does not offer rewards and may carry an annual fee, it is ideal for individuals who need a secured card that combines credit-building benefits with more manageable interest rates. First Progress Platinum Prestige provides a strategic option for those looking to rebuild credit responsibly while keeping financing costs lower when carrying balances. It supports consistent growth in credit history while offering practical financial advantages.
Action Plan for Using These Credit Cards
- Choose a secured card that fits your budget and credit goals, considering deposit requirements, fees, and rewards.
- Apply and get approved, ensuring you understand the card’s terms and conditions.
- Use the card monthly for small, regular purchases like groceries, gas, or subscriptions to establish consistent activity.
- Pay in full and on time every billing cycle to avoid interest and build a positive payment history.
- Keep your balance low, ideally between 10–30% of your credit limit, to demonstrate responsible usage.
- Request a review after 6–12 months to potentially increase your limit or graduate to an unsecured card.
- Transition to unsecured cards when eligible to access higher limits, better rewards, and lower fees, continuing your credit-building journey.
Simple Comparison
| Card | Type | Annual Fee | Deposit | Rewards | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Discover it® Secured | Secured | $0 | $200 | Yes | Rewards + graduation |
| Capital One Platinum Secured | Secured | $0 | $49+ | No | Low deposit |
| OpenSky® Secured Visa® | Secured | $35 | $200 | No | Easy approval |
| Self Visa® Secured | Secured + Loan | Varies | Loan-based | No | Dual credit building |
| Credit One Bank Platinum | Unsecured | High | $0 | Limited | Unsecured option |
| Petal® 1 Visa | Unsecured | $0 | $0 | No | Alt underwriting |
| Chime Credit Builder | Secured (linked) | $0 | Flexible | No | Fee-free building |
| NFCU nRewards® Secured | Secured | $0 | $200+ | Points | Military members |
| Citi® Secured | Secured | $0 | $200 | No | Simple rebuilding |
| First Progress Prestige | Secured | Varies | $200+ | No | Lower APR |
Detailed Comparison
| Card Name | Card Type | Annual Fee | Minimum Deposit | Rewards Program | Target Users / Benefits | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Discover it® Secured | Secured | $0 | $200 | Cashback rewards | People aiming for credit graduation | Rewards + automatic review for upgrade |
| Capital One Platinum Secured | Secured | $0 | $49+ | None | Low deposit requirement | Good for beginners with small deposit |
| OpenSky® Secured Visa® | Secured | $35 | $200 | None | Easy approval | No credit check required |
| Self Visa® Secured | Secured + Loan | Varies | Loan-based | None | Build dual credit | Linked to a small installment loan |
| Credit One Bank Platinum | Unsecured | High | $0 | Limited cashback | Unsecured option | Higher interest, easier approval |
| Petal® 1 Visa | Unsecured | $0 | $0 | None | Alternative underwriting | No deposit, uses income/employment for approval |
| Chime Credit Builder | Secured (linked) | $0 | Flexible | None | Fee-free credit building | Works via linked Chime account |
| NFCU nRewards® Secured | Secured | $0 | $200+ | Points | Military members | Rewards points program for Navy Fed members |
| Citi® Secured | Secured | $0 | $200 | None | Simple credit rebuilding | Basic secured card for rebuilding credit |
| First Progress Prestige | Secured | Varies | $200+ | None | Lower APR | Offers lower interest than typical secured cards |
FAQs
Q: What’s the easiest credit card to get with bad credit?
A: The OpenSky® Secured Visa® is one of the easiest cards to qualify for because it does not require a credit check. This makes it perfect for people with very poor credit or limited history. As long as you can provide the refundable security deposit, your approval odds are extremely high.
Q: How long until I see credit score improvement?
A: Many people see improvements in 3–6 months if they pay on time and keep balances low. Credit score growth depends on consistent habits, such as paying before the due date and keeping utilization under 30%. Over 12–18 months, many users qualify for unsecured cards with better terms.
Q: Which secured card has rewards?
A: The Discover it® Secured and the Navy Federal nRewards® Secured are standout options because they actually give you cash back or points. This is rare among secured cards, making them excellent for people who want both credit-building and real benefits from spending.
Q: Do I get my deposit back?
A: Yes. The deposit is fully refundable when you close the account in good standing or when you graduate to an unsecured version. Think of it as temporary collateral that helps prove your reliability.
Q: Can I get multiple secured cards?
A: Yes, you can, but applying for too many at once may lower your score due to multiple inquiries. A smarter approach is starting with one or two secured cards, building strong payment history, then expanding later if necessary.
Conclusion
Rebuilding credit in 2025 is not only achievable but highly rewarding if you follow the right plan. By carefully selecting one of the 10 best credit cards for bad credit, making disciplined on-time payments, and keeping balances consistently low, you’ll see measurable improvement in your credit profile. Within just 6–12 months, many cardholders graduate from secured cards to unsecured credit cards. In as little as 12–18 months, you may unlock access to better loan terms, higher credit limits, and reduced interest rates that can save you thousands of dollars over time.
The most important thing to remember is that rebuilding credit isn’t about quick fixes or shortcuts. It’s about building strong financial habits that prove you’re reliable. Paying on time every month, using your card strategically, and avoiding unnecessary fees are the keys to long-term success. Even small steps, like keeping your utilization below 30% (ideally under 10%), can lead to big rewards in your score. Consistency matters more than anything else.
The key power words to keep in mind are: Consistency. Growth. Patience. Freedom. Opportunity. Every swipe of your card, every bill you pay on time, and every low balance you maintain brings you closer to financial independence. Remember, bad credit doesn’t define who you are—it only reflects past circumstances. Your financial future is determined by the actions you take starting today.
So don’t wait or let hesitation hold you back. Start now with the right secured or rebuilding credit card, commit to your customized action plan, and track your progress month after month. Celebrate small wins, like the first time you see your score increase by 20 or 30 points, because each milestone proves that your efforts are working.
By the end of 2025, if you remain disciplined, you can completely transform your financial story. With stronger credit, you’ll qualify for better car loans, lower mortgage rates, premium credit cards, and business opportunities that may have once seemed out of reach. You’ll also gain priceless peace of mind knowing you are back in control of your financial destiny.
The bottom line: Your journey to better credit starts with one smart choice today. Make it count, stay consistent, and watch your credit score open doors to the financial freedom you deserve
read more about this article in forbes 10 Best Credit Cards
