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Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card
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Apply for a Firstcard Secured Credit Card Online in Minutes

Say no to bad credit. Firstcard's secured credit card is designed to help you rebuild credit fast with confidence.
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What is considered bad credit?

Bad credit typically means having a credit score below 580. A bad credit score can make it harder to get loans, credit cards, rent an apartment, or even get a job. It’s common for people to end up with bad credit without realizing it—things like overspending on store credit cards, missing payments, or not knowing how credit scores work can negatively impact your score.

Improving bad credit requires consistent on-time payments, reducing debt, and regularly monitoring your credit report.

How do Credit Cards for Bad Credit Work?

A credit card for bad credit is specifically designed to help individuals with low credit scores rebuild their credit history. People with bad credit can have a difficult time obtaining a credit card. Credit cards for bad credit are easier to qualify for, even with poor credit but they often require a security deposit.

By reporting to major credit bureaus, these cards allow users to improve their credit score through responsible use, such as making on-time payments and keeping credit utilization low.

Over time, consistent use can lead to better credit and access to cards with lower fees and higher benefits.

Types of Credit Cards for Bad Credit

Secured Credit Cards for Bad Credit:

These require a refundable security deposit (e.g., $200), which acts as your credit limit. They’re ideal for rebuilding credit as long as you pay on time.
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Unsecured Credit Cards for Bad Credit:

These don’t require a deposit, but often come with higher fees, interest rates, and lower credit limits so be cautious and read the terms and conditions!
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Store Credit Cards for Bad Credit:

These are offered by retailers and can help build credit, but often come with high interest rates, low credit limit and limited usability outside the store.
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Credit Builder Cards for Bad Credit:

A credit builder card helps improve your credit score by encouraging responsible use and on-time payments. It’s a simple way to build or rebuild your credit history.
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Why Firstcard Is a Great Credit Card for People with Bad Credit

People with bad credit need to be extra mindful when using a credit card. Firstcard is specifically designed to help people rebuild their credit without the stress of making costly mistakes. See why Firstcard is a great credit card for people with bad credit below.
No Overspending

A common challenge when getting a credit card for bad credit is overspending and poor budgeting. This often leads to spending more money than they can afford, worsening their financial situation. Firstcard helps break this cycle by allowing you to spend only what you deposit—encouraging responsible money management and helping you form good spending habits.

No APR Surprises

Did you know credit card APRs for people with bad credit can reach as high as 29%? Many people don’t fully pay off their monthly credit card bills, unknowingly racking up significant interest charges. Firstcard is a better credit card for bad credit and eliminates this worry by offering no credit line or APR—helping you focus on rebuilding your credit without hidden costs.

No Hard Credit Inquiry

For those with bad credit, a hard credit pull can further lower their score. Many traditional credit cards require a hard inquiry during the application process. Too many hard inquiries can negatively affect your credit score. With Firstcard’s credit card for bad credit, there’s no credit check or hard pull, making it a stress-free option to start rebuilding your credit.

No Credit Utilization Concerns

Credit utilization ratio plays a critical role in determining your credit score. The rule of thumb is to keep utilization below 30%—meaning, if you have a $1,000 credit limit, you should use no more than $300. Exceeding this threshold can harm your credit score. What makes Firstcard a better credit card for people with bad credit is that there’s no risk of exceeding your credit utilization ratio. The amount you can spend is the amount you deposit into your Firstcard account.

Build Credit While Enjoying Premium Perks

Most credit builder and secured cards offer little to no benefits. Firstcard is a better credit card for bad credit as it provides premium perks typically found with regular credit cards. With Firstcard Premium, you can earn 4.00% APY on savings, up to 15% cashback from over 29,000 merchants, and even up to 10% random cashback on qualifying purchases. It’s the best of both worlds: rebuild your credit while enjoying valuable rewards!

Fixing Bad Credit With Firstcard

Firstcard is a secured credit builder card that is designed to help you rebuild credit.

By using Firstcard for purchases and making timely payments, your on-time credit activities are reported to all three major credit bureaus (Equifax®, Experian®, and TransUnion®) and you can improve your credit score over time.

Firstcard provides safe guards to make sure that you don’t spend beyond your limit and you will never need to worry about your credit utilization ratio. With Firstcard, what you deposit is what you can spend. Firstcard does not extend a credit line. This unique approach encourages healthy spending habits while protecting you from overspending and exceeding the ideal credit utilization ratio.

The best way to build credit without an SSN

As an immigrant, I struggled to find a credit card. Firstcard was the perfect solution with their no-SSN requirement. Now, I can build credit and earn rewards with every purchase.

Hana P.
Reliable and user-friendly!

Moving to a new country comes with its challenges, but Firstcard made building my financial life here so much easier. The no-SSN requirement was crucial for me. The app is user-friendly and helps me keep track of my spending and savings. Firstcard has truly been such a reliable financial partner for me as an immigrant.

Amara A.
A must-have for newcomers

Firstcard's approach to helping immigrants build credit is outstanding. The customer service is very supportive, and the cashback rewards make everyday purchases more rewarding. It's a must-have for newcomers.

Vidya K.
A lifesaver

Firstcard made it incredibly easy for me to establish credit as a new immigrant. The fact that they don't require an SSN was a lifesaver and the high cashback rates are just icing on the cake!

Henry Z.
A great card for immigrants!

Getting started with Firstcard was smooth and hassle-free, even without an SSN. The app is intuitive, and the financial tools have been very helpful in managing my budget and building credit. A great card for immigrants!

Amin H.
Firstcard makes my financial life abroad much easier

Managing my finances in a new country was a major concern, but Firstcard made it so much easier. The support team is always responsive and helpful, and I can ask questions and receive help in Spanish which is amazing!

Paolo G
The best credit card experience!

The benefits and support provided by Firstcard are fantastic for international students. Would highly recommend to any international student looking for the best card to start building credit in the US

Omari A
Helped me build credit abroad!

The app is straightforward to use, and the financial tools have helped me manage my budget effectively. I love the peace of mind that comes with the app’s security features and the easy money transfers.

Alec P
A must-have for International Students

Firstcard has been an essential tool for me as an international student from India. The app is easy to navigate and offers fantastic features tailored for students

Anika K
The best way to build credit without an SSN

As an immigrant, I struggled to find a credit card. Firstcard was the perfect solution with their no-SSN requirement. Now, I can build credit and earn rewards with every purchase.

Hana P.
Reliable and user-friendly!

Moving to a new country comes with its challenges, but Firstcard made building my financial life here so much easier. The no-SSN requirement was crucial for me. The app is user-friendly and helps me keep track of my spending and savings. Firstcard has truly been such a reliable financial partner for me as an immigrant.

Amara A.
A must-have for newcomers

Firstcard's approach to helping immigrants build credit is outstanding. The customer service is very supportive, and the cashback rewards make everyday purchases more rewarding. It's a must-have for newcomers.

Vidya K.
A lifesaver

Firstcard made it incredibly easy for me to establish credit as a new immigrant. The fact that they don't require an SSN was a lifesaver and the high cashback rates are just icing on the cake!

Henry Z.
A great card for immigrants!

Getting started with Firstcard was smooth and hassle-free, even without an SSN. The app is intuitive, and the financial tools have been very helpful in managing my budget and building credit. A great card for immigrants!

Amin H.
Firstcard makes my financial life abroad much easier

Managing my finances in a new country was a major concern, but Firstcard made it so much easier. The support team is always responsive and helpful, and I can ask questions and receive help in Spanish which is amazing!

Paolo G
The best credit card experience!

The benefits and support provided by Firstcard are fantastic for international students. Would highly recommend to any international student looking for the best card to start building credit in the US

Omari A
Helped me build credit abroad!

The app is straightforward to use, and the financial tools have helped me manage my budget effectively. I love the peace of mind that comes with the app’s security features and the easy money transfers.

Alec P
A must-have for International Students

Firstcard has been an essential tool for me as an international student from India. The app is easy to navigate and offers fantastic features tailored for students

Anika K

How to Apply for Credit Cards with Bad Credit

You may have a harder time getting approved for a credit card if you have a bad credit — or a score under 580. While you may not qualify for the best credit cards on the market yet, you can still get a credit card that’s right for your credit profile. Here are few steps you can take to apply for credit cards with bad credit.

Check Your Credit Report:

Find out your credit score and check for errors that could affect approval.

Compare Credit Cards:

Look for cards designed for bad credit, such as secured cards or those with lower qualification requirements.

Become an authorized user on someone else’s card:

You can become an authorized user on someone else’s credit card. This allows you to use the card without a credit check. Their history of responsible payments can contribute to building your credit.

Consider a secured credit card

This is one of the best options for people with bad credit but want to rebuild their credit. It typically requires an upfront security deposit.

Prepare documentations:

Make sure you have your your Social Security number, proof of address and IDs on hand.

Apply Online or In Person:

Visit the card issuer’s website or nearby location to complete your application.

How to Apply for a Firstcard Secured Credit Builder Card?

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Click the button below to apply online.
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Provide your basic information such as your name, birthday, SSN, US ID and address.

* If you are an international or immigrant without an SSN, apply with your passport, ITIN or Visa.
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Choose a Firstcard plan that works for you.
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Get approved and start using the Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card to build credit faster!
Get Started
You’re pre-approved.
Apply today! No hard credit check needed.

Security & support you can trust

Safe and Secure
Firstcard uses industry-standard encryption technology to ensure your account and information are safe and secure.
Insured up to $250,000
Money in your Firstcard account is insured up to the maximum amount of $250,000 through our bank partner Regent Bank, a member of FDIC.
Powered by Mastercard
Powered by Mastercard with Zero Liability Fraud Protection guarantee for unauthorized charges.

Frequently asked questions

What are the risks of getting a credit card for bad credit?

Credit cards for bad credit often come with annual percentage rates (APRs) of 25% or more.

If you spend more than you are able to pay back, you can quickly accumulate expensive debt. Late or missed payments can hurt your credit score further and which can make it harder to rebuild.

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To minimize these risks make sure you pay off your card in full each month – not just the minimum balance.

Are there any credit cards for bad credit with rewards programs?

Not all credit cards for bad credit have rewards programs but some do! 

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The Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card offers unlimited 1% cashback and 4.00% APY with Firstcard Premium. Firstcard also offers up to 15% cashback when you shop at one of our 29,000+ partner merchants and random cashback up to 10% on every purchase. 

How can I increase my chances of getting approved for a credit card with bad credit?

Most people can qualify for a credit card for bad credit, even with bad or limited credit history. To increase your chances of approval, apply for a secured credit card for bad credit where you are pre-approved. If possible, avoid cards that require a hard credit check as that can lower your credit score.

What should I look for in a credit card for bad credit?

If it’s hard to qualify for a traditional card, apply for a credit card for bad credit or a secured credit card like Firstcard. Look for low fees, low APR, no hard credit checks as hard credit checks can negatively impact your credit score.

How can a credit card for bad credit help me improve my credit score?

An unsecured credit card for bad credit or a secured credit card can help you build a stronger credit profile over time with responsible use. Secured credit cards require a cash deposit upfront which helps reduce the risk of not being able to pay your bills on time later on. This safeguard is exclusive to secured credit cards. By using a secured credit card like Firstcard for purchases and making timely payments, your on-time credit activities are reported to the major credit bureaus and can help improve your credit score over time.

Fix Your Bad Credit Now With Firstcard

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FTC

Firstcard is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Regent Bank, Member FDIC. Firstcard credit cards are issued by Regent Bank, pursuant to a license from Mastercard. Valid for 18+ and subject to account approval. FDIC deposit insurance up to $250,000 per qualified customer account on a "pass-through" basis; FDIC insurance only covers failure of insured depository institutions. Certain conditions must be satisfied for pass-through FDIC deposit insurance to apply.

Forbes Featured Partner:  https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best/international-students/

Time Featured Partner:  https://time.com/personal-finance/article/best-credit-cards-for-students/

CNN Featured Partner:  https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/money/best-credit-cards-college-students

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Valid for 18+ and subject to account approval. Pre-approved means that you have met the initial criteria for this credit card; however, your application may be rejected if any of the following apply: you provided incorrect information or we are unable to verify your identity under federal law; you are under 18 years old.

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Merchant Cashback: The amount of cashback is determined by the transaction and participating merchants. See firstcard.app/cashback-policy.

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Random Cashback: Users will receive up to 10% of random cashback on qualifying purchases. A qualifying purchase is a purchase that has been processed and accepted by the merchant and has settled in the entrant's Firstcard account. This purchase may, but not necessarily, include tips, holds, and deposits related to the qualifying purchase. Additionally, the following transaction categories are NOT qualifying purchases and will not be eligible to earn entries into random cashback: ATM withdrawals, wire transfers or cash transfers, purchasing gift cards or other cash equivalents, gambling or online casino, peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers, such as Venmo, Cash App, transfers between Firstcard users, or similar services, gambling, bill payment, prepaid phone recharge and any other transaction types that we may deem ineligible at our sole discretion. See firstcard.app/random-cashback-policy.

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The Annual Percentage Yield ("APY") for the Deposit Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of November 7, 2024. . For cardholders without an SSN, credit monitoring and APY features are unavailable. For ITIN cardholders, APY feature is available; however, credit monitoring remains unavailable. No minimum balance is required. Firstcard Standard members are eligible for 0.75% APY. Firstcard+ members are eligible for 2.00% APY. Firstcard Premium members are eligible for 4.00% APY. Annual fees and other fees may impact your yield.

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Firstcard Premium customers will earn an additional 1% unlimited cashback on all eligible credit card purchases. Exclusions apply. Cashback rewards are not earned on ATM withdrawals, P2P transfers, purchases of gift cards or other cash equivalents, and certain other types of transactions as determined by Firstcard. Cashback is awarded within 7 days of the eligible transaction posting to your account. No minimum balance required to earn cashback.

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Data pulled from Chase Bank as of January 10, 2025: https://www.chase.com/content/dam/chase-ux/ratesheets/pdfs/rdfl1.pdf

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Data pulled from Bank of America as of January 10, 2025: https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/bank-account-interest-rates/

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Data pulled from Wells Fargo as of January 10, 2025: https://www.wellsfargo.com/checking/prime/

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Data pulled from Discover It Secured Credit Card as of January 10, 2025: https://www.discover.com/credit-cards/secured/

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Data pulled Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card from as of January 10, 2025: https://creditcards.chase.com/cash-back-credit-cards/freedom/unlimited

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Data pulled from Bank of America Secured Credit Card as of January 10, 2025: https://www.bankofamerica.com/credit-cards/products/secured-credit-card/

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According to the FDIC, the national average interest rate on savings accounts is 0.42% APY (as of December 16, 2024). https://www.fdic.gov/resources/bankers/national-rates/.