If you're building credit from scratch or bouncing back from a rough patch, a secured credit card is usually the smartest first move. You put down a refundable deposit that sets your limit, use the card like any other, and the issuer reports your activity to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Pay on time and keep your balance low, and you're building the exact history lenders look for.
We focused on three things that matter most for a first card: gets you approved, reports to all three bureaus, and doesn't quietly drain you with fees. Here are our picks.
Discover it® Secured
OpenSky® Secured Visa®
Capital One Platinum Secured
Capital One Quicksilver Secured
Secured Chime Visa®
What to look for in a secured card
- Reports to all three bureaus. Non-negotiable — if it doesn't report, it isn't building anything.
- Low or no annual fee. Plenty of strong options charge $0. Only accept a fee (like OpenSky's) when you need the no-credit-check approval.
- A path to unsecured. The best cards review your account and return your deposit once you've proven yourself.
- A deposit you can actually afford. Some start as low as $49–$200; Chime requires no minimum at all.
How to build credit fast
- Charge one small recurring bill and set autopay for the full balance.
- Keep usage under ~30% of your limit (under 10% is even better).
- Never miss a due date — payment history is the biggest factor in your score.
- After 6–12 months of on-time payments, ask about graduating to an unsecured card.
Common questions
Will a secured card hurt my credit to open?
Some issuers do a hard inquiry (a few points, temporary); no-credit-check options like OpenSky and Chime don't. The long-term building effect far outweighs a small opening dip.
How much deposit do I need?
Often $200, but Capital One Platinum Secured can approve deposits as low as $49, and Chime requires no minimum. Your deposit usually equals your credit limit.
When do I get my deposit back?
When you close the account in good standing or the issuer upgrades you to an unsecured card. It's refundable — not a fee.
How long until my score improves?
Many people see movement within 3–6 months of on-time payments and low balances, though timelines vary by your full credit picture.