How to Get a Credit Card with Bad Credit
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Having bad credit can make obtaining traditional credit difficult, but there are viable alternatives for those looking to rebuild their score.
In 2025, options like Chime Credit Builder, OpenSky Secured Visa®, and Discover it® Secured Credit Card provide accessible paths for those with poor or no credit history.
These secured cards work effectively for credit rebuilding when used responsibly. Continue reading to understand how each of these options can help improve your financial health.
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How to Get a Credit Card with Bad Credit in 2025
There are several credit card options available for those with bad credit or a poor credit history.
Secured cards, such as Chime Credit Builder, OpenSky, and Secured Discover Card, are effective alternatives for rebuilding credit, allowing you to regain your financial score.
These cards require an initial deposit that serves as your credit limit, making them accessible even for those with a poor credit history. By using them responsibly, you can gradually improve your score and secure better future terms.
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What Are the Best Credit Cards for Those with Bad Credit?
Having bad credit can make accessing traditional credit difficult, but there are alternatives that help rebuild your score. Secured credit cards are an excellent option for those in this situation.
They allow you to regain the trust of financial institutions while providing an opportunity to improve your credit score.
Chime Credit Builder
Chime Credit Builder is an excellent option for those with bad credit looking to rebuild their score. This secured card doesn’t require a traditional credit check and allows you to set your own limit, making it easier to manage your credit.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Chime Credit Builder:
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Open a Chime account: Go to the Chime official website and complete the account setup process.
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Verify your identity: Provide personal information such as name, address, phone number, and Social Security number (SSN).
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Apply for Chime Credit Builder: After opening the account, you’ll see an option to apply for the credit card.
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Deposit funds: Transfer an amount from your Chime account to the Credit Builder secured account.
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Start using the card: Use the card for daily purchases and pay off the balance in full each month.
Chime Credit Builder offers a fee-free way to build or improve your credit.
OpenSky Secured Visa®
The OpenSky Secured Visa® is another popular secured card, ideal for those needing a simple option to rebuild their credit. The card requires an initial deposit that becomes your credit limit.
The application process is quick and simple, with no complicated requirements. OpenSky doesn’t perform a strict credit check, making it a great alternative for those seeking a fresh start in the credit market.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for OpenSky Secured Visa®:
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Visit the official OpenSky website: Go to the OpenSky Secured Visa® site and click the apply option.
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Fill out the application form: Provide personal information such as name, address, phone number, and SSN.
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Choose the deposit amount: Select the amount you wish to deposit as collateral; the minimum is $200.
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Pay the deposit: Make the deposit using available payment methods.
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Wait for approval: After review, you’ll receive a response about your application.
The OpenSky Secured Visa® provides a direct and straightforward way to rebuild your credit.
Secured Discover it® Credit Card
The Secured Discover it® Credit Card offers all the benefits of a secured card, with the added bonus of cashback rewards. This means you can start improving your credit score while earning rewards.
With this card, you can accumulate cashback on purchases and use the rewards system to maximize the value of your spending. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Secured Discover it® Credit Card:
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Visit Discover’s official website: Go to Discover’s site and navigate to the credit card section.
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Select the Secured Discover it® Credit Card: Choose the secured card with cashback rewards.
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Fill out the application form: Provide personal information such as name, address, phone number, and SSN.
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Choose the deposit amount: Select the amount you want to deposit as collateral; the minimum is $200.
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Pay the deposit: Complete the deposit payment using available options.
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Wait for approval: After review, you’ll receive a response about your application.
The Secured Discover it® Credit Card combines credit rebuilding with additional benefits, making it an attractive option for many consumers.
How Secured Credit Cards Work
Secured cards work simply: you make an initial deposit as collateral, which serves as your credit limit. The deposit amount is held by the financial institution, ensuring the company has backup in case of non-payment.
As you use the card and make timely payments, you build credit and demonstrate financial responsibility. This type of card is ideal for those looking to rebuild credit and who don’t have access to traditional credit options.
What Are the Requirements for Getting a Credit Card with Bad Credit?
Requirements vary depending on the card type. For secured cards like Chime Credit Builder, OpenSky, and Secured Discover it®, the requirements are more flexible.
They typically include proof of identity, proof of residence, and, in some cases, an initial deposit that determines your credit limit.
You don’t need perfect credit or a strong credit history, which makes these options accessible for those starting to rebuild their credit.
How to Improve Your Credit Score with Bad Credit Cards?
In addition to choosing the right card, there are effective practices for improving your credit score with these cards. The first tip is always to pay your bills on time, avoiding any delays that can harm your score.
It’s also crucial to keep your balance below 30% of your credit limit, which shows responsibility in using credit. Using the card regularly and paying on time helps build a good financial history, essential for accessing better credit terms in the future.
