Credit Cards for Thin Credit
These are some of the most popular credit cards from our partners. We've outlined some key features along with what to like and what to look out for. You can also search all credit cards on Credit Karma for more options.
Featured Cards by Credit Score Updated: 9/1/2016 Advertiser Disclosure
New to Credit
For consumers with limited credit histories, these are some of the most popular credit cards from our credit card partners. If you have a limited credit history, you may have fewer options. One of the cards recommended below could help you start building a positive credit history.
- No annual fee, and all the credit building benefits with responsible card use
- Unlike a prepaid card, it builds credit when used responsibly, with regular reporting to the 3 major credit bureaus
- You will get an initial $200 credit line after making a security deposit of $49, $99, or $200, determined based on your creditworthiness
- Get access to a higher credit line after making your first 5 monthly payments on time with no additional deposit needed
- Easily manage your account 24/7 with online access, by phone, or using our mobile app
- It’s a credit card accepted at millions of locations worldwide
Pros & Cons
- No processing or application fees
- High interest rate
- Security deposit
Our Take
The Capital One® Secured MasterCard® is a good option for people with little or no credit history who are looking to build their credit.
What to Like
This Capital One® Secured MasterCard® has no set up or processing fees. Capital One® reports to all three major credit bureaus so you can take steps to build your credit history. While this card does require an initial security deposit, Capital One® may increase your credit limit without any additional deposits if you use your credit responsibly.
Look Out For
Secured credit cards are great for building credit, but they typically come with annual fees and a required security deposit--and without rewards. It’s important to use your credit responsibly in order to build toward a card with more attractive perks.
- Find card offers you may be eligible for without affecting your credit score
- Get matched to features you want like low intro rates, cash back or miles, and more
- See your card matches in less than 60 seconds
- Find a card for where you are to help you prepare for what’s ahead
- All Capital One cards come with fraud coverage if your card is lost or stolen
- 24/7 account access including mobile app for fast and easy account management - right from your smartphone
- Pick the monthly payment due date that works best for you
- Pay the way you want - by check, online, or at a local branch
Pros & Cons
- No application fees
- Rates may vary
Our Take
Need a credit card, but don’t know which card to apply for? The Capital One® Card Finder Tool is a great way to find a credit card that matches your credit profile. By following three easy steps, you can see if you pre-qualify for a card without affecting your credit score.
If approved, you could enjoy all of the benefits associated with Capital One’s card services. Typical benefits include 24/7 account access, $0 fraud liability and the ability to monitor your spending with free email and text message alerts.
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* See the online provider's credit card application for details about terms and conditions. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accurate information. However, all credit card information is presented without warranty. When you click on the "Apply Now" button, you can review the credit card terms and conditions on the provider's website.
† Credit Karma looks at how your credit profile compares to other Credit Karma members who were approved for this product. Of course, there's no such thing as a sure thing, but knowing whether your Approval Odds are Very Good, Good, Fair or Poor may help you narrow down your choices.
‡ Average score refers to the arithmetic mean and typical low score to the 5th percentile of, in each case, available VantageScore 3.0 credit scores provided by TransUnion of Credit Karma members who were approved for this product from March 2016 through August 2016. Average and typical approved scores are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed. You can learn more about credit card approval through our in-depth article.