What is a "secured" credit card?

Secured credit cards are a type of credit card that requires a deposit before it can be issued. Designed for consumers with poor credit, the deposit is collateral against a customer defaulting on their credit card payments. Most secured credit cards will provide a credit limit equal to the security deposit.

Historically, secured credit cards have high fees and interest rates even though there is a deposit against default. In addition, secured credit cards often have an application fee. We suggest consumers read all of the fine print on secured credit card agreements since there are often hidden fees.

For people with poor credit, secured credit cards are sometimes the only option. We've recommended the best secured credit cards based on the fees, interest rates, and member input.

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