If you have poor credit (a FICO score below 580), finding a credit card can feel overwhelming. Many banks and lenders reject applications from individuals with low credit scores, making it difficult to rebuild financial health. However, credit cards for poor credit are specifically designed to help you improve your credit score, regain financial stability, and build a better future.
At Mountains Debt Relief, we understand how challenging credit card debt can be, especially when interest rates are high, and payments become unmanageable. In this guide, we will explore:
The best credit cards for poor credit The difference between secured and unsecured cards How to use a credit card to rebuild your credit How to avoid common credit mistakes When to consider credit card debt relief
Understanding Poor Credit & Why It Matters
Your credit score is a three-digit number that represents your creditworthiness. It affects your ability to get loans, credit cards, mortgages, and even rent an apartment.
Credit Score Ranges:
| Score Range | Credit Rating |
|---|---|
| 800 – 850 | Excellent |
| 740 – 799 | Very Good |
| 670 – 739 | Good |
| 580 – 669 | Fair |
| 300 – 579 | Poor Credit |
If you have a low credit score, you may:
Be denied for credit cards and loans Get higher interest rates on approved credit Have difficulty renting an apartment Struggle to get a mortgage or car loan
But there’s good news! With the right credit card and responsible use, you can gradually improve your credit score and open new financial opportunities.
The Best Credit Cards for Poor Credit
Here are some of the best credit cards for poor credit that can help you rebuild your credit and work toward financial freedom.
1. Discover it® Secured Credit Card (Best for Rewards)
Credit Limit: $200 – $2,500 APR: 27.99% variable Annual Fee: $0 Security Deposit Required: Yes Rewards: 1-2% cash back on purchases
Why It’s Great: No annual fee Reports to all 3 credit bureaus Earn cash-back rewards
Best for: People who want to rebuild credit while earning cash-back rewards.
2. Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card (Best for Low Deposit)
Credit Limit: $200 – $1,000 APR: 30.49% variable Annual Fee: $0 Security Deposit Required: $49, $99, or $200
Why It’s Great: Low security deposit required No annual fee Potential for a credit limit increase with responsible use
Best for: People who need a low upfront deposit option.
3. OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card (Best for No Credit Check)
Credit Limit: $200 – $3,000 APR: 25.64% variable Annual Fee: $35 Security Deposit Required: Yes
Why It’s Great: No credit check required for approval Reports to all 3 major credit bureaus Flexible deposit amounts
Best for: People with very low credit scores who need guaranteed approval.
4. Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa® for Rebuilding Credit (Best for Unsecured)
Credit Limit: Varies APR: 28.49% variable Annual Fee: $75 first year, then $99 annually Security Deposit Required: No
Why It’s Great: No security deposit required Reports to all credit bureaus Earns 1% cash back
Best for: People who don’t want a secured card but still need credit-building opportunities.
5. Surge Mastercard® (Best for Quick Approval)
Credit Limit: $300 – $1,000 APR: 24.99% – 29.99% Annual Fee: $75 – $99 Security Deposit Required: No
Why It’s Great: Fast pre-qualification process Reports to all credit bureaus Potential for credit limit increases
Best for: Those who need quick approval with poor credit.
Secured vs. Unsecured Credit Cards: Which One Is Best?
| Feature | Secured Credit Cards | Unsecured Credit Cards |
|---|---|---|
| Approval Requirements | Easier to qualify for | Harder to qualify for with poor credit |
| Security Deposit? | Yes | No |
| Credit Limit | Based on deposit | Based on creditworthiness |
| Best For | Rebuilding credit | Limited credit history |
If you have poor credit, a secured credit card is often easier to get and helps improve your credit score faster.
How to Use a Credit Card to Rebuild Poor Credit
If you get a credit card for poor credit, follow these steps to improve your score:
Make on-time payments every month Keep your balance low (below 30% of your credit limit) Avoid maxing out your credit card Limit new credit applications Check your credit report regularly
Example: If your credit limit is $500, keep your balance below $150 to maintain a low credit utilization ratio.
When to Consider Credit Card Debt Relief
While credit cards can help build credit, they can also lead to debt problems if misused. If you are:
Struggling with high-interest credit card balances Unable to make minimum payments Seeing your credit score drop due to late payments
It may be time to consider credit card debt relief options.
Contact Mountains Debt Relief today for a free consultation!
How Mountains Debt Relief Can Help You
At Mountains Debt Relief, we offer debt relief solutions to help people eliminate credit card debt and regain financial freedom. Our services include:
Debt Settlement – We negotiate with creditors to reduce what you owe Debt Consolidation – Combine multiple debts into one affordable payment Credit Counseling – Learn how to manage credit card debt responsibly
Get a FREE Consultation Today! Our experts will help you find the best solution for your financial situation.
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Credit & Debt
If you have poor credit, getting the right credit card can help you rebuild your score and improve your financial future.
Choose a credit card that fits your needs Use it responsibly to boost your credit score Seek help from Mountains Debt Relief if you’re struggling with credit card debt
Ready to rebuild your credit or find debt relief? Contact Mountains Debt Relief today and take the first step toward financial freedom!