Best Credit Cards for Fair Credit

It can be hard to find the right credit card, especially if your credit score is in the fair range. But there’s good news: we’ve put together a complete guide that lists the best credit cards for people with fair credit.

You’ll learn about 12 great options that can help you improve your financial situation by giving you manageable fees, reasonable interest rates, and useful benefits. Our carefully chosen selection will help you figure out which cards are worth looking into, whether you want to build or fix your credit history.

Discover it® Secured Credit Card

The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is an excellent choice for those aiming to establish or rebuild their credit profile. With no annual fee, this card allows users to manage their finances without added costs. It also offers cashback: 1% on everyday purchases and 2% at gas stations and restaurants (up to quarterly limits). This rewards system encourages responsible usage.

Another benefit is Discover’s monthly reporting to all three major credit bureaus. After eight months of responsible use, you may be reviewed for an unsecured credit line.

Features

• No annual fee

• Cashback rewards

• Monthly credit bureau reporting

• Possible upgrade to unsecured credit

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card features a simple 1.5% unlimited cashback on all purchases. This card encourages you to earn while spending.

Features

• Earn 1.5% unlimited cashback

• Access to higher credit limits with responsible use

• Redeem cashback as statement credits, gift cards, or more

It is designed specifically for people with fair credit, making qualification easier while offering growth potential.

OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card

The OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card is a standout option because it does not require a credit check for approval. Instead, it uses a refundable security deposit as your credit limit.

Features

• No credit check during approval

• Reports to all major credit bureaus

• Security deposit acts as your credit line

This card provides a solid foundation for building credit, especially if you’ve faced difficulties in the past.

First Progress Platinum Prestige MasterCard® Secured Credit Card

Known for its low annual fee, this card is a solid choice for people committed to building a positive credit history. Security deposit options are flexible based on your budget.

Features

• Low annual fee

• Monthly reporting to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion

• Suitable for building or rebuilding credit

Upgrade Visa® Debit Card with 0% APR Introductory Offer

Not a traditional credit card, the Upgrade Visa® Debit Card links directly to your bank account and helps you manage spending wisely.

Features

• 0% introductory APR for a limited time

• Spend only what you have

• No annual fee or hidden transaction costs

It offers a hybrid path for developing responsible financial habits without risking debt accumulation.

Petal 2 “Cash Back” Visa® Credit Card

The Petal 2 card is ideal for individuals new to credit or looking to improve their score. No security deposit is required, and you can earn up to 1.5% cashback on eligible purchases.

Features

• No deposit required

• Cashback up to 1.5%

• Encourages responsible credit use and timely payments

This card emphasizes transparency and user growth.

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Indigo® Platinum Mastercard®

The Indigo® Platinum Mastercard® is a great option if you’ve had credit challenges. Its lenient acceptance criteria and pre-qualification feature make it accessible without impacting your credit score.

Features

• Pre-qualification with no credit score impact

• Optional identity theft protection

• Reports to all major bureaus

• No annual fee

This card is a viable stepping stone toward rebuilding credit.

Secured Sable ONE Visa® Credit Card

The Secured Sable ONE Visa® offers cashback even at the secured level.

Features

• 1% cashback on eligible purchases

• No foreign transaction fees

• No annual fee

• Straightforward application process

It’s especially appealing for travelers and those looking for long-term credit building.

DCU VISA Platinum Reward Signature Consumer (Secured)

The DCU VISA Platinum Reward Signature Consumer (Secured) card combines credit rebuilding with excellent perks.

Features

• 0% intro APR on balance transfers for a limited time

• Earn rewards points on everyday purchases

• No annual fee

This hidden gem is perfect for building credit without sacrificing benefits.

Self Visa™ Credit Card by Self Financial Inc.

This card is tied to a credit-building loan, helping users steadily improve their credit through consistent payments.

Features

• Integrated with a personal loan structure

• No upfront deposit required once milestones are met

• Real-time progress tracking

• Builds credit through installment and revolving credit behavior

It’s a structured and educational way to improve credit over time.

Unsecured Ollo Rewards™ Mastercard®

Designed for those with prior credit blemishes, the Ollo Rewards™ Mastercard® allows cardholders to earn on essentials.

Features

• Earn points on groceries and online shopping

• No annual fee

• Available to those with imperfect credit histories

The rewards structure encourages everyday spending while reinforcing financial discipline.

Surburban Bank Cetera Optimum Business Real Estate Platinum

Tailored for small business owners in the real estate space, this business credit card offers a focused path toward growth.

Features

• Points earned on business expenses

• No annual fee

• High rewards for larger transactions

• Designed to support long-term real estate investment needs

It’s a niche but powerful tool for entrepreneurs looking to grow responsibly.

Conclusion: Building Credit Starts with the Right Tools

When you have fair credit, picking the right credit card can make a big difference in your finances. All of the cards above can help you improve your credit, give you more financial freedom, and help you manage your money better, whether you’re just getting started or trying to fix past credit problems.

To find the card that works best for you, carefully read the fees, benefits, and requirements for getting one. If you use these options responsibly and consistently, they can help you raise your credit score and build a strong base for future financial success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is considered a “fair” credit score?

A fair credit score typically ranges from 580 to 669 on the FICO scale. This range suggests you may have some credit history but possibly some past payment issues or high credit utilization.

Can I qualify for a credit card with fair credit?

Yes, many credit cards are designed specifically for applicants with fair credit. These include both secured cards, which require a refundable deposit, and unsecured cards, which do not.

What’s the difference between a secured and an unsecured credit card?

• A secured credit card requires a deposit, which usually becomes your credit limit.

• An unsecured credit card does not require a deposit and is issued based on your creditworthiness.
  Both types can help you build or rebuild your credit if used responsibly.

Will using a secured credit card improve my credit score?

Yes. Most secured cards report your activity to the three major credit bureaus. Making on-time payments and keeping your balance low can lead to a better score over time.

How fast can I improve my credit with one of these cards?

If you make consistent, on-time payments and maintain low balances, you may begin to see improvements in your credit score in as little as 3 to 6 months. However, significant improvements often take 12 months or more.

Are there annual fees for credit cards for fair credit?

Some cards have no annual fee, while others may charge $35-$75 per year. It’s important to read the fine print to decide whether the rewards and features outweigh the costs.

Can I upgrade from a secured to an unsecured card?

Yes. Cards like the Discover it® Secured and Self Visa™ Credit Card offer automatic reviews after a set period. If you’ve demonstrated responsible use, you may qualify for an upgrade without a new application.

What are the best types of purchases to make with these cards?

Use your card for small, manageable purchases like groceries, gas, or recurring subscriptions. Pay the balance in full each month to avoid interest and build a positive payment history.

Will applying for one of these cards hurt my credit score?

Most applications involve a hard credit inquiry, which may temporarily reduce your score by a few points. However, some cards offer pre-qualification checks that don’t affect your credit.

What should I avoid when using a credit card to build credit?

• Avoid late payments

• Don’t max out your credit limit. Keep usage below 30%.

• Avoid carrying high balances, especially on cards with high APRs.

• Don’t apply for multiple cards at once, as it can lower your score.

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Reviewed and edited by Albert Fang.

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Article Title: Best Credit Cards for Fair Credit

https://fangwallet.com/2025/08/02/best-credit-cards-for-fair-credit/

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