Top 5 Credit Cards for Bad Credit No Deposit

Eve Thomson
6 min readSep 7, 2024

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If you have bad credit, obtaining a traditional credit card can be challenging. Many credit cards for bad credit require a security deposit, which serves as collateral and minimizes the risk for the card issuer. However, not everyone can afford to put down a deposit.

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Luckily, there are unsecured credit cards specifically designed for individuals with bad credit that don’t require an upfront deposit. These cards offer an opportunity to rebuild your credit while providing access to credit without the financial burden of a deposit.

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Top 5 Credit Cards for Bad Credit No Deposit

This article will guide you through the top credit cards for bad credit with no deposit, outlining their features, benefits, and key details. If you’re looking to rebuild your credit or gain access to credit without the need for a deposit, this list will help you find the right card.

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Top 5 Credit Cards for Bad Credit No Deposit

Surge Platinum Mastercard

The Surge Platinum Mastercard is designed specifically for individuals with poor credit. It offers an unsecured credit line, meaning you don’t need to pay a deposit to open the account.

Key Features:

  • Credit Limit: $300 to $1,000 based on creditworthiness.
  • Annual Fee: $75 to $99, depending on your credit profile.
  • Regular APR: 29.99% (variable).
  • Credit Reporting: Reports to all three major credit bureaus, helping you rebuild your credit.
  • Additional Fees: May include monthly maintenance fees after the first year.

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Why It’s a Good Option:
The Surge Platinum Mastercard is ideal for people who want to improve their credit score, as it reports to all major credit bureaus. While the card has an annual fee, it doesn’t require a security deposit, and you can see a credit limit increase with responsible usage.

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Mission Lane Visa

Mission Lane Visa is another great option for those with bad credit. This card does not require a security deposit, and it comes with a straightforward and transparent fee structure.

Key Features:

  • Credit Limit: Starts between $300 and $1,000 with potential for increases over time.
  • Annual Fee: $0 to $59, depending on your creditworthiness.
  • Regular APR: 26.99% — 29.99% (variable).
  • Credit Reporting: Reports to all major credit bureaus.
  • Other Perks: Offers regular reviews for credit limit increases.

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Why It’s a Good Option:
Mission Lane Visa is known for its transparency, with no hidden fees. It’s a solid choice for rebuilding credit without worrying about complex fee structures or deposit requirements.

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Fortiva Mastercard Credit Card

Fortiva Mastercard is another unsecured card aimed at individuals with less-than-perfect credit. It comes with higher fees and interest rates but provides access to credit without requiring a deposit.

Key Features:

  • Credit Limit: Varies based on creditworthiness.
  • Annual Fee: $49 to $175 for the first year, then $0 to $49.
  • Regular APR: 29.99% — 36.99% (variable).
  • Credit Reporting: Reports to all three major credit bureaus.
  • Other Fees: Monthly maintenance fees may apply after the first year.

Why It’s a Good Option:
Fortiva Mastercard provides an opportunity to access unsecured credit and improve your credit score. However, it’s important to note that this card comes with higher fees and interest rates, so it’s best suited for those committed to making timely payments to avoid costly penalties.

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Indigo Mastercard for Less than Perfect Credit

The Indigo Mastercard is designed for individuals with poor credit who may not qualify for traditional credit cards. With no security deposit required, this card allows you to access credit with relatively flexible approval criteria.

Key Features:

  • Credit Limit: $300.
  • Annual Fee: $0 to $99, depending on your credit profile.
  • Regular APR: 24.9% (variable).
  • Credit Reporting: Reports to all three major credit bureaus.

Why It’s a Good Option:
The Indigo Mastercard has a simple fee structure and offers pre-qualification without affecting your credit score. It’s a good option for individuals looking to rebuild their credit without a deposit and who prefer a card with no hidden fees.

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Total Visa Credit Card

The Total Visa Credit Card is another unsecured card that doesn’t require a deposit, making it accessible to people with poor credit. However, it comes with an annual fee and high-interest rates.

Key Features:

  • Credit Limit: $300 to start.
  • Annual Fee: $75 for the first year, then $48 annually.
  • Regular APR: 34.99% (variable).
  • Credit Reporting: Reports to all three major credit bureaus.
  • Other Fees: Program fee of $89 applies.

Why It’s a Good Option:
The Total Visa Credit Card is easy to qualify for, and it’s designed for people with bad credit. Though the fees are higher than some alternatives, it offers the opportunity to improve your credit score without the need for a deposit.

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How to Select the Best Unsecured Credit Card for Bad Credit

When choosing a credit card for bad credit with no deposit, it’s essential to consider the following factors:

  • Annual Fees: Look for cards with reasonable or no annual fees.
  • Interest Rates (APR): High-interest rates can lead to significant costs if you carry a balance. Aim for the lowest APR possible, even with bad credit.
  • Credit Limit: Consider a card that offers credit limit increases as you make timely payments.
  • Credit Reporting: Ensure the card reports to all three major credit bureaus to improve your credit score over time.
  • Additional Fees: Be aware of any maintenance fees, program fees, or hidden charges that could add to the cost of using the card.

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FAQs

Should I apply for an unsecured credit card with bad credit?

Yes, applying for an unsecured credit card can help you rebuild your credit if you use it responsibly. Just be mindful of the fees and interest rates associated with cards for bad credit.

Will an unsecured credit card improve my credit score?

Yes, if you make timely payments and keep your balance low, an unsecured credit card can improve your credit score over time by demonstrating responsible credit usage.

Can I get an unsecured credit card with a 500 credit score?

Yes, there are unsecured credit cards specifically designed for individuals with credit scores as low as 500. However, these cards may come with higher fees and interest rates.

How can I improve my chances of getting approved for an unsecured credit card?

To improve your chances, ensure that you pay down any existing debts, make timely payments, and avoid applying for multiple credit cards within a short period.

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured credit cards?

A secured credit card requires a deposit that serves as collateral, while an unsecured credit card does not require a deposit and is based on your creditworthiness.

Conclusion

If you have bad credit, obtaining an unsecured credit card without a deposit can be a great way to rebuild your credit. The top cards mentioned above — Surge Platinum Mastercard, Mission Lane Visa, Fortiva Mastercard, Indigo Mastercard, and Total Visa — offer accessible credit options for individuals with poor credit scores. These cards report to major credit bureaus, which can help improve your credit score over time if used responsibly.

Before applying, it’s important to review the terms, fees, and interest rates associated with each card. By making informed choices and maintaining responsible credit habits, you can work your way towards better financial health and access to more favorable credit terms in the future.

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