8 Best Credit Cards To Rebuild Credit

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated September 15, 2025

Rebuilding credit can feel challenging, but the right credit card can make the process smoother and more manageable. The best credit cards for rebuilding credit offer simple approval requirements, responsible credit reporting, and features that help improve credit scores over time. This guide highlights eight solid options so anyone can choose a card that fits their financial goals.

  • Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card

    The Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is a secured credit card designed to help people build or rebuild their credit history. It works with a linked Chime Checking Account, making it easy to manage spending and payments.

    Instead of a traditional credit limit, the card uses the money the cardholder moves into their secured account. This approach helps reduce the risk of overspending and missing payments.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not earn rewards, points, or cashback.

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    • APR: N/A (no interest charged)
    • No minimum security deposit required
    • No credit check to apply
    • Spending limit equals amount in secured deposit account
    • Reports to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee or interest charges
    • No credit check to apply
    • Flexible spending limit based on secured account balance
    • Automatic payment feature to help avoid late payments
    • Reports monthly to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion

    Redemption Options:

    Not applicable, as the card does not offer rewards.

    Credit Requirements:

    Available to applicants with poor or average credit (579 and below) or no credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Does not offer rewards or traditional credit limit increases.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides a simple way to build credit without the risk of carrying a balance or paying interest.

  • Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

    The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card is designed for people who want to build or rebuild their credit. It requires a refundable security deposit, which sets the credit limit.

    Cardholders earn cash back on every purchase, making it a practical choice for everyday spending. Responsible use can help improve credit scores over time.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
    • 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    • APR: 29.74% variable
    • Security Deposit: Minimum $200 refundable deposit for at least a $200 credit line
    • Reports to all three major credit bureaus
    • Automatic credit line review in as little as six months with no extra deposit required

    Key Benefits:

    • Simple flat-rate cash back on all purchases
    • No foreign transaction fees for international use
    • Potential to upgrade to an unsecured card with responsible use
    • Access to account monitoring tools and credit score tracking

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed for statement credits, direct deposits, or gift cards.

    Credit Requirements:

    Designed for applicants with limited or poor credit histories, with a FICO score of 300–629.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The initial credit limit depends on the deposit amount, which may be low for some users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a straightforward rewards program and helps build credit with responsible use.

  • Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card

    The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card is designed for people who want to build or rebuild credit while earning travel rewards. It works like a regular credit card but requires a security deposit.

    Cardholders can use it for everyday purchases and earn rewards on travel-related spending. It also reports to all three major credit bureaus, which can help improve credit history with responsible use.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3 points per dollar on purchases through Bank of America’s Travel Center
    • 1.5 points per dollar on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    • APR: 28.24% variable
    • Security Deposit: $200–$5,000 refundable deposit
    • Periodic account reviews for potential deposit return
    • Points never expire while account is open

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong rewards on travel center purchases
    • No blackout dates or travel restrictions
    • Wide range of eligible travel and dining redemptions
    • No annual or foreign transaction fees
    • Ability to set higher credit limit with larger deposit

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed to offset qualifying travel and dining purchases; best value is for travel redemptions.

    Credit Requirements:

    Available to applicants with limited, bad, or fair credit (579 and below).

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Requires a refundable security deposit and may have a lower initial credit limit.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a simple rewards program and helps new or rebuilding cardholders establish a positive credit history.

  • Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card

    This secured credit card is designed for people who want to build or rebuild their credit history. It requires a security deposit, which sets the credit limit.

    Cardholders can choose their preferred spending category for higher rewards. It also reports to all three major credit bureaus, which can help improve credit scores with responsible use.

    Earning Structure:

    • 6% cash back for the first year in your chosen category on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter, then 1% thereafter
    • 3% cash back in your chosen category after the first year
    • 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases
    • 3% and 2% cash back rates apply to the first $2,500 in combined category/grocery/wholesale purchases per quarter, then 1%

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: Applies
    • APR: 28.24% variable
    • Security Deposit: $200–$5,000 refundable deposit
    • Reports to all three major credit bureaus
    • Potential for upgrade to unsecured card

    Key Benefits:

    • Ability to choose a top earning category
    • No annual fee
    • Cash back rewards on everyday purchases
    • Potential to upgrade to an unsecured card with responsible use

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or check.

    Credit Requirements:

    Suitable for those new to credit, a FICO score starting as low as 300.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Rewards in higher categories are capped at $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers flexible rewards while helping establish a positive credit history through regular reporting.

  • First Progress Platinum Prestige Mastercard® Secured Credit Card

    The First Progress Platinum Prestige Mastercard® Secured Credit Card is designed for people who want to build or rebuild their credit history. It reports to all three major credit bureaus, which can help improve a credit score with responsible use.

    This card requires a refundable security deposit, which also sets the credit limit. It works like a regular credit card for purchases, but the deposit reduces the lender’s risk.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1% cash back on all purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $49
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: Applies
    • APR: 14.24% variable
    • Security Deposit: Minimum $200 refundable deposit (fundable over 90 days)
    • Reports to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion
    • No option to graduate to an unsecured card

    Key Benefits:

    • Accepts applicants with limited or poor credit history
    • No credit history required to apply
    • Can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted
    • Helps establish a positive payment record

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be applied toward statement credits.

    Credit Requirements:

    Approval is not based on credit score, but rather on the applicant’s ability to provide the required security deposit.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The spending limit is tied to the deposit amount, and there are no rewards for spending.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides a straightforward way to build credit with manageable requirements and broad acceptance.

  • Varo Believe Credit-Builder Card

    The Varo Believe Credit-Builder Card is a secured credit card designed to help people build or rebuild credit. It works by using money in a linked Varo bank account as the spending limit.

    This card reports monthly to the three major credit bureaus, which can help improve a credit score with responsible use. It does not require a traditional credit check to apply.

    Earning Structure:

    • Up to 6% cash back at select brands and retailers nationwide

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    • APR: 0.00%
    • No minimum security deposit required
    • Spending limit equals funds in secured Varo account
    • Reports to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion
    • Credit score tracking in the app

    Key Benefits:

    • No interest charges when paid in full each month
    • Flexible spending limit based on deposited funds
    • Helps build credit with regular reporting
    • No foreign transaction fees

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed through eligible purchases or account credits.

    Credit Requirements:

    No credit check; available to applicants with no credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The spending limit depends on the amount moved into the secured account, which may be restrictive for some users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a simple way to establish credit history without the risk of overspending or incurring interest charges when used responsibly.

  • Discover it® Secured Credit Card

    The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is designed for people who want to build or rebuild their credit history. It requires a refundable security deposit, which sets the credit limit.

    This card reports to all three major credit bureaus, helping responsible users improve their credit profile over time. It also offers cashback rewards, which is uncommon for secured cards.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter)
    • 1% cashback on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    Cashback Match™—Discover matches all cash back earned at the end of the first year.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $0
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    • APR: 27.24% variable
    • Security Deposit: Minimum $200 refundable deposit
    • Reports to all three major credit bureaus
    • Automatic account review starting at seven months for potential upgrade

    Key Benefits:

    • Cashback rewards on everyday spending
    • Free access to FICO® Credit Score
    • No penalty APR for late payments
    • Automatic account reviews starting at 7 months to check for a possible upgrade to an unsecured card

    Redemption Options:

    Cashback can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or at select retailers.

    Credit Requirements:

    Available to applicants with no credit history or those rebuilding credit, typically in the fair credit range of FICO 580–669.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Credit limit is tied to the deposit amount, which may be low for some users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It combines credit-building features with rewards, making it a practical choice for first-time cardholders.

  • Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

    The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is designed for people who want to build or rebuild credit while earning cash back. It offers a simple rewards structure that is easy to understand and use.

    This card reports to all three major credit bureaus, which can help cardholders improve their credit history with responsible use. It also provides access to useful account management tools.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
    • 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: $39
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    • APR: 29.74% variable
    • Rewards never expire as long as the account remains open
    • Automatic credit line review in as little as six months

    Key Benefits:

    • Flat-rate cash back on all purchases
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Access to CreditWise credit monitoring
    • Automatic credit line reviews for potential increases

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as a statement credit, check, or for purchases through eligible partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Designed for applicants with fair, average, or limited credit, often with a FICO score of 580–669.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The annual fee may reduce net rewards for those who spend less.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple rewards system and credit-building features make it easy for new cardholders to manage and grow their credit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top unsecured credit cards for rebuilding credit?

Unsecured credit cards do not require a deposit, making them appealing for those who want to rebuild credit without locking up funds. Options like the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card report to all three credit bureaus and can help establish positive payment history. These cards may start with lower limits but can increase with responsible use.

How can I get a credit card with a high limit despite having bad credit?

Applicants with stable income, low debt, and on-time payment records are more likely to qualify for higher limits. Cards such as the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card can offer credit line increases after as little as six months. Starting with a lower limit and requesting an increase over time can improve your chances.

What are the best first-time credit cards for building credit?

First-time credit cards focus on helping users build a credit history with simple terms and accessible requirements. Secured cards like the Discover it® Secured Credit Card offer rewards and regular credit bureau reporting. Responsible use can pave the way to an upgrade to an unsecured card.

Are there any credit cards that offer guaranteed approval for those with poor credit scores?

While true guaranteed approval is rare, some cards have high approval rates for poor credit applicants. Cards like the First Progress Platinum Prestige Mastercard® Secured Credit Card accept applicants with limited or no credit history. Prequalification tools can also help estimate approval chances without impacting your score.

What options are available for credit cards that require no deposit for credit building?

Unsecured cards that don’t require a deposit can help build credit while keeping funds available. The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers rewards and reports to all three credit bureaus. These cards may have lower initial limits but can grow with consistent, responsible use.