How to Apply for a Credit Card With a Bad Credit Score (2024 Guide)

Introduction

If you’ve ever been denied a credit card because of a low credit score, you’re not alone. Over 1 in 3 Americans have a credit score below 670, but even with bad credit, there are ways to qualify for a credit card. Whether you’re rebuilding your score or need emergency funds, this guide will show you how to apply for a credit card with a bad credit score, highlight the best cards for subprime borrowers, and share expert tips to boost your approval chances. Let’s get started.

What to Look for in a Credit Card for Bad Credit

Not all credit cards are created equal—especially when your score is low. Here’s what to prioritize:

1. Secured vs. Unsecured Cards

• Secured Cards: Require a refundable security deposit (e.g., $200) that acts as your credit limit. Best for rebuilding credit.
• Example: Discover it® Secured Card (earns cashback, no annual fee).
• Unsecured Cards: No deposit needed but often charge high fees or interest rates.
• Example: Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa (reports to all three bureaus).

2. Low Fees

Avoid cards with excessive fees. Look for:

• No or low annual fees (under $50).
• No application fees.
• Reasonable APR (even if you plan to pay in full).

3. Credit-Building Tools

Choose cards that:

• Report to all three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion).
• Offer free credit score tracking (e.g., Capital One’s CreditWise).

How to Apply for a Credit Card With Bad Credit: Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to maximize your approval odds:

Step 1: Check Your Credit Score

Use free tools like Credit Karma or Experian to confirm your score. Most secured cards accept scores as low as 300.

Step 2: Pre-Qualify

Many issuers like Capital One and Discover offer pre-qualification with a soft credit check (no score impact).

Step 3: Compare Cards

Filter options by:

• Security deposit requirements.
• Fees (annual, monthly, foreign transaction).
• Credit bureau reporting.

Step 4: Gather Documents

Have ready:

• Proof of income (pay stubs, bank statements).
• Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN.
• Bank account details (for secured card deposits).

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Apply online in 10 minutes. Avoid submitting multiple applications in a short span—each hard inquiry can lower your score by 5–10 points.

Best Credit Cards to Apply for With a Bad Score

Based on fees, accessibility, and user reviews, here are our 2024 top picks:

1. Discover it® Secured Card

• Credit Score Required: 300+ (no credit history okay).
• Pros: 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants, $0 annual fee, refundable deposit.
• Cons: $200 minimum deposit.

2. Capital One Platinum Secured Card

• Credit Score Required: 300–669 (flexible approval).
• Pros: Deposit as low as $49, credit limit increase reviews at 6 months.
• Cons: No rewards program.

3. OpenSky® Secured Visa

• Credit Score Required: None (no credit check).
• Pros: Builds credit fast, no bank account required.
• Cons: $35 annual fee.

Comparison Table

Improving Your Approval Odds

Even with bad credit, these strategies can help:

• Lower Credit Utilization: Keep existing card balances below 30% of your limit.
• Add a Co-Signer: Some issuers allow co-signers to strengthen your application.
• Start Small: Apply for a secured card first, then upgrade after 6–12 months.
• Fix Credit Report Errors: Dispute inaccuracies via AnnualCreditReport.com.

How We Tested

To recommend these cards, we:

• Analyzed 15+ subprime credit cards for fees, accessibility, and user feedback.
• Consulted the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) for safety guidelines.
• Prioritized cards with transparent terms and credit-building tools.

FAQs

Q: Can I get a credit card with a 500 credit score?
A: Yes! Secured cards like the OpenSky Visa or unsecured options like the Credit One Bank Visa accept scores as low as 500.

Q: How long does it take to get approved?
A: Instant decisions are common online. If approved, you’ll receive the card in 7–10 business days.

Q: Will a secured card raise my credit score?
A: Yes—if you pay on time and keep utilization low, you could see a 50–100 point increase within 6 months.

Conclusion

Applying for a credit card with bad credit isn’t impossible—it just requires the right strategy. By choosing a secured card or subprime option, avoiding high fees, and making timely payments, you can rebuild your score while accessing the funds you need. Ready to take the next step? Compare our top picks and use pre-qualification tools to apply with confidence.

Remember: Responsible credit use today can open doors to better financial opportunities tomorrow.