Having bad credit can make it difficult to qualify for traditional credit cards, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Many financial institutions now offer specialized credit cards designed to help individuals rebuild their credit score while still providing everyday convenience. In this guide, we review the best credit cards for bad credit in the United States for 2025, focusing on approval rates, fees, and benefits.
1. Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card – Best Overall
The Capital One Platinum Secured card is one of the most popular options for people with bad credit. With a refundable security deposit, you can qualify for a credit limit that grows with responsible use.
Highlights:
- Low deposit requirements ($49, $99, or $200)
- Reports to all three major credit bureaus
- No annual fee
2. Discover it® Secured Credit Card – Best for Rewards
Unlike most secured credit cards, Discover offers cash back rewards—even for those with bad credit. This makes it a strong choice for individuals who want to rebuild credit while earning rewards.
Highlights:
- 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants
- Dollar-for-dollar match of cash back in the first year
- No annual fee
3. OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card – Best for No Credit Check
OpenSky is a secured credit card that does not require a credit check for approval, making it ideal for those with very poor credit or recent financial setbacks.
Highlights:
- No credit check required
- Low annual fee ($35)
- Reports monthly to all three credit bureaus
4. Petal® 1 Visa Credit Card – Best for No Deposit
The Petal 1 Visa is an unsecured card designed for people with limited or damaged credit history. Unlike secured cards, it does not require an upfront deposit.
Highlights:
- No deposit required
- Credit limits up to $5,000
- No annual fee
5. Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa – Best for Quick Approvals
Credit One Bank specializes in cards for people with less-than-perfect credit. While fees are higher than average, it’s often easier to qualify for compared to other unsecured options.
Highlights:
- Regular credit limit increases with on-time payments
- Cash back rewards available
- Quick online pre-qualification
Tips for Using a Credit Card with Bad Credit
- Always pay on time to avoid high interest and late fees.
- Keep your credit utilization below 30% to improve your score.
- Avoid multiple applications at once, as hard inquiries can lower your score.
- Reevaluate after 12 months—you may qualify for better cards once your score improves.
Rebuilding credit takes time, but the right credit card can speed up the process while providing access to essential financial tools. Whether you prefer a secured card with rewards or an unsecured option with higher limits, the above credit cards are among the best choices for people with bad credit in 2025.
Pro Tip: Start small, pay on time, and treat your credit card as a tool for rebuilding—not overspending.