Best For Bad Credit
Smart Payoff Strategy for Best For Bad Credit
Regardless of which card you choose from this category, the most important financial decision is how you manage your balance. The rewards, perks, and benefits of any credit card are only valuable if you are not paying more in interest than you earn in rewards. A card earning 3% back while charging 24% interest on a carried balance is costing you 21 cents on every dollar that rolls over.
The golden rule: treat your credit card as a payment tool, not a lending tool. Charge only what you can pay in full by the statement due date. This way, you earn full rewards, pay zero interest, and build a positive payment history that strengthens your credit score over time.
If you are currently carrying a balance, use our payoff calculator to determine the monthly payment needed to become debt-free within your target timeframe. Pairing a payoff plan with a balance transfer to a 0% intro APR card can accelerate your progress by directing every dollar toward principal instead of interest.
Best For Bad Credit — Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score is considered bad credit?▼
A FICO score below 580 is generally considered poor or bad credit. Scores of 580–669 are fair. With a score below 580, your options are limited to secured cards, credit-builder loans, and a few unsecured cards designed for rebuilding credit. These cards typically have higher fees and APRs but report to all three credit bureaus.
Can I get a credit card with a 500 credit score?▼
Yes, but your options are limited to secured cards and a few unsecured cards for bad credit. Secured cards are the best choice — they require a deposit but have lower fees and better upgrade paths. Avoid cards that charge excessive monthly maintenance fees or processing fees, as these eat into your credit-building progress.
How long does it take to go from bad credit to good credit?▼
With consistent positive behavior (on-time payments, low utilization), most people can move from bad credit (below 580) to good credit (670+) within 12–24 months. The timeline depends on the severity of negative marks. Late payments fade in impact after 12 months; collections and bankruptcies take longer but diminish steadily.
Should I avoid credit cards if I have bad credit?▼
No — responsibly using a credit card is one of the fastest ways to rebuild credit. The key is using a secured card with a small limit, charging only what you can afford to pay in full each month, and never missing a payment. This builds positive payment history (35% of your score) and demonstrates responsible credit management.
Do cards for bad credit have higher APRs?▼
Yes, cards for bad credit typically carry APRs of 25–36%, reflecting the higher risk the issuer takes. This makes it especially important to pay your balance in full every month — carrying a balance at these rates is extremely expensive. A $500 balance at 30% APR costs $12.50/month in interest.
What is the fastest way to improve bad credit?▼
The fastest strategies are: (1) dispute any errors on your credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com, (2) pay down high-utilization cards to below 30%, (3) set up autopay so you never miss a payment, and (4) become an authorized user on a family member's well-managed card. Steps 1–2 can show results within one billing cycle.
Are there any rewards cards for bad credit?▼
Very few. Most cards for bad credit focus on rebuilding rather than rewards. The Discover it Secured card is a notable exception, offering 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants and 1% everywhere else — with a first-year cash back match that effectively doubles your earnings. Once your credit improves, you can upgrade to better rewards cards.
Will applying for a bad-credit card hurt my score further?▼
Each application creates a hard inquiry that may lower your score by 5–10 points temporarily. When your score is already low, this matters more proportionally. Apply for only one card at a time, research approval odds before applying, and wait at least 6 months between applications. A denied application still generates a hard inquiry with no benefit.