Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit in 2026
Rebuild your credit score with these top credit cards for bad or fair credit. Secured and unsecured options with low fees and credit-building features.
Discover it Secured Credit Card
Pros
- 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants
- Cashback match in first year
- No annual fee
Cons
- Requires $200 minimum deposit
- Lower acceptance than Visa/Mastercard
- No option to choose your own deposit amount freely
Capital One Platinum Secured Card
Pros
- Deposit as low as $49 for $200 limit
- Automatic credit line reviews
- No annual fee
Cons
- No rewards program
- No intro APR offer
- Higher ongoing APR
Chime Secured Credit Builder Visa
Pros
- No annual fee, no interest charges
- No credit check to apply
- Reports to all three credit bureaus
Cons
- Must have Chime checking account
- No rewards program
- Spending limited to account balance
OpenSky Secured Visa Card
Pros
- No credit check required
- Choose deposit from $200-$3,000
- Reports to all three bureaus
Cons
- $35 annual fee
- No rewards program
- No mobile app
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a credit card with a 500 credit score?
Yes. Secured credit cards are designed for low credit scores. You provide a refundable security deposit (usually $200-$500) which becomes your credit limit. Using the card responsibly helps rebuild your score over time.
How long does it take to rebuild credit with a secured card?
Most people see meaningful credit score improvement within 6-12 months of responsible use. Key factors include making on-time payments, keeping utilization below 30%, and not applying for too many cards at once.
What is the difference between secured and unsecured cards?
Secured cards require a refundable security deposit that serves as your credit limit. Unsecured cards do not require a deposit but may have higher fees or interest rates for those with bad credit. Both report to credit bureaus and help build credit.
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