Credit cards for bad or fair credit
See which cards fit your score, how to check before you apply, and what to do if you keep getting turned down.
Free tool
What's the best card for me?
Four questions. No credit check.
Try one
Denied for a card in the last 6 months?
Could put down a deposit?
The best fit
An unsecured card for fair credit
Cards built for scores in the 500s and 600s. Prequalify to see real offers with a soft pull.
This free tool gives a general estimate based on what you enter. The Credit Pros makes no representations or guarantees about any outcome.
Where are you with cards?
Stop applying and find the reason
- Each application can add a hard inquiry, and several in a row look risky to issuers.
- Read the denial letter. It lists the main reasons.
- Prequalify before you apply again. It uses a soft pull.
Start with a card built for that
- A secured card uses your deposit as the limit, so approval is easier.
- Some prepaid cards do not build credit at all. Check before you pick one.
- Keep the balance low and pay in full, and your score builds from there.
Store cards are often easier, but check the fine print
- Look up the card below to see what score people get approved with.
- Store cards usually have higher rates and lower limits.
- Pay it in full each month and it helps your score like any card.
A balance transfer helps only if you pay it down
- Most 0% offers need good credit. Fair credit gets shorter promo periods.
- Expect a 3% to 5% transfer fee.
- Have a plan to pay it off before the promo ends.
Soft pull
prequalifying shows your odds without a hard inquiry
Deposit
sets the limit on a secured card, not your score
Under 30%
of your limit is a good balance to report
Can I get this card with my score?
The questions people ask most, with answers for their score.
Guides for credit cards
Start where you are. Everything here is free to read.
Just learning
The basics of credit cards
Making a plan
Tools and plans you can use today
Free tool
Ready for help
When you want us to handle it
How it works
Compare
Free review
Every credit cards guide
Choosing and using a card 4
Secured, prepaid and starter cards 3
Balance transfers and interest 2
Closing cards and limits 2
Getting approved 2
Common questions
What credit card can I get with a 550 score?
Mostly secured cards and a few unsecured cards made for rebuilding. Prequalify to see real offers without a hard inquiry.
Does applying for a card hurt my score?
A hard inquiry can lower it a few points for up to a year. Prequalifying does not.
Should I close a card I do not use?
Usually no. Closing it lowers your available credit, which can raise your utilization.
More credit help
See your credit through a lender’s eyes.
Get your free credit review to see where you stand. This is a soft credit pull, so it won’t impact your score.