Credit cards for fair or bad credit

These cards are aimed at people with fair, poor or limited credit history, by the issuer’s own description or by the credit tiers issuers report to the CFPB. Secured cards are included: a refundable deposit sets the limit, so approval doesn’t hinge on your score.

Expect higher APRs. Paying in full each month avoids interest and builds the payment history that leads to better cards.