Best Credit Cards for Fair Credit in February 2026: Build Your Score with Confidence
Fair credit can leave you feeling stuck between poor and good credit, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If your FICO score falls between 580 and 669, the right card can help you build credit responsibly and earn rewards along the way.
Key takeaways
- The Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa® is our top pick for fair credit, offering simple rewards, no annual fee and a high potential credit limit.
- Credit cards for fair credit can help build credit when you use them responsibly and the issuer reports your activity to the major credit bureaus.
- Compare fair-credit cards by the basics: annual fees, APRs, rewards and credit reporting.
- This page covers the best credit cards for fair credit across categories, including unsecured (no-deposit), store and secured options.
| Scenario | LendingTree's recommendation |
|---|---|
| I want the best overall card for fair credit | Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa® |
| I want to pay off a balance with a long intro APR offer | Navy Federal Platinum Credit Card |
| I want a travel-friendly card | Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card |
| I'm a business owner with fair credit | Capital One Spark Classic for Business |
| I’m a student with fair credit | Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card |
| I shop often on Amazon | Amazon Prime Store Card |
| I want a secured credit card with everyday rewards | U.S. Bank Altitude Go Visa Secured Card |
| I want a card with no credit check | opensky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card |
| I want a secured card with a flexible or high credit limit | Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card |
Our top picks for credit cards for fair credit
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | Regular APR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa®
 Apply Now
on Upgrade's secure site Rates & Fees |
Winner
|
1.5% cash back
1.5% unlimited cash back on card purchases every time you make a payment
| $200 cash bonus
$200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking Preferred account and making 3 debit card transactions*
| 14.99% - 29.99% APR |
Apply Now
on Upgrade's secure site Rates & Fees |
Navy Federal Platinum Credit Card*
|
Balance transfers
|
N/A | N/A | 10.49% to 18.00% (variable) | |
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
|
Travel
|
1.5% - 5% Cash Back
| N/A | 28.99% (Variable) | |
Capital One Spark Classic for Business*
|
Business owners
|
1% - 5% cash back
| N/A | 28.99% (Variable) | |
Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
|
Students
|
1% - 8% cash back
| $50 Cash Back
Earn $50 Cash Back when you spend $100 in the first three months
| 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable) | |
Amazon Prime Store Card*
|
Store card
|
5% back at Amazon.com
Amazon Prime members can earn 5% back at Amazon.com
| $60 Amazon gift card
$60 Amazon Gift Card upon approval
| 29.74% | |
U.S. Bank Altitude Go Visa Secured Card*
|
Rewards
|
1X - 4X points
| N/A | 28.49% variable | |
opensky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card
Apply Now
on Capital Bank, N.A.'s secure site |
No credit check
|
10% cash back
Up to 10% cash back rewards
| N/A | 28.24% (variable) |
Apply Now
on Capital Bank, N.A.'s secure site |
Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card*
|
A high limit
|
N/A | N/A | N/A |
Methodology: How we chose the best credit cards for fair credit
We take a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identify the best credit cards for fair credit. We use an objective rating and ranking system that evaluates over 200 credit cards from more than 50 issuers. All recommendations are made by LendingTree’s editorial team, completely independent of affiliate partnerships or compensation. Every card is selected based on its merit and ability to help people achieve their financial goals. We use the following criteria to make our picks:
We calculate how much the average cardholder can save with the card on a yearly basis. If it is a rewards card, we use U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and $300 in monthly spending (the typical starting credit limit for an introductory card) to calculate how much the average cardholder can earn in rewards. We then subtract fees — including annual fees and maintenance fees — from this amount.
We give points for features that help build credit, including reports to all three credit bureaus, regular account reviews for card upgrades and free credit score access. We detract points for features that can be costly to cardholders trying to build credit, such as security deposits, penalty APRs and late payment fees.
Note that our ratings are a starting point for comparing and choosing the best credit card for building credit. However, your needs may be different from the average cardholder. You should consider the amount you’re likely to spend in a card’s bonus categories and which benefits you value to choose the best card for you.
Unsecured credit cards for fair credit (no deposit required)
Winner: Best credit card for fair credit
Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa®
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
Key takeaway: Earn simple cash back while paying off purchases with fixed monthly payments.
- Fixed monthly payments make balances easier to manage
- Flat-rate cash back on purchases
- $0 annual fee
- Potentially high credit limit
- Optional sign-up bonus with a connected checking account
- No grace period for interest
- Less payment flexibility than a typical credit card
- Lowest APR requires autopay
The Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa® earns our top spot for fair credit because it combines flat-rate cash back with fixed monthly payments. Paying purchases on a set schedule can help prevent balances from growing over time, though the tradeoff is less flexibility than a traditional credit card, including no grace period on interest.
→ Read LendingTree’s full review of the Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa®.
→ See LendingTree’s top picks for the easiest credit cards to get.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking Preferred account and making 3 debit card transactions*
- 1.5% unlimited cash back on every purchase
- No annual fee
- See if you qualify in seconds with no impact to your credit score
- Combine the flexibility of a card with the predictability of a personal loan
- Enjoy Visa Signature benefits, like Roadside Dispatch, Price Protection, Extended Warranty Protection, and more
- Shop smarter with Upgrade Shopping! Get exclusive savings at stores, restaurants, and more
- Contactless payments with Apple Pay® and Google Wallet™
- Mobile app to access your account anytime, anywhere
- Use your card anywhere Visa is accepted
- Relax knowing that you are protected in case of unauthorized transactions with Visa’s Zero Liability Policy
- *To qualify for the welcome bonus, you must open and fund a new Rewards Checking Preferred account through Upgrade and make 3 qualifying debit card transactions from your Rewards Checking Preferred account within 60 days of the date the Rewards Checking Preferred account is opened. If you have previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not open a Rewards Checking Preferred account as part of this application process, you are not eligible for this welcome bonus offer. Your Upgrade Card and Rewards Checking Preferred account must be open and in good standing to receive a bonus. To qualify, debit card transactions must have settled and exclude ATM transactions. Please refer to the applicable Upgrade Visa® Debit Card Agreement and Disclosures for more information. Welcome bonus offers cannot be combined, substituted, or applied retroactively. The bonus will be applied to your Rewards Checking Preferred account as a one-time payout credit within 60 days after meeting the conditions. This one-time bonus is available through this Upgrade Card offer and may not be available for other Upgrade Card offers.
Best balance transfer credit card for fair credit
Navy Federal Platinum Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Key takeaway: Cut balance transfer costs with extremely low interest if you qualify for Navy Federal Credit Union membership.
- Exceptionally low intro APR on balance transfers
- Low ongoing APR after the intro period
- $0 balance transfer fee
- $0 annual fee
- $0 foreign transaction fee
- Requires Navy Federal Credit Union membership
- No intro APR on purchases
- Doesn’t earn rewards
If you’re eligible for Navy Federal Credit Union membership, the Navy Federal Platinum Credit Card is one of the lowest-cost balance transfer options available for fair / good / excellent credit. It offers a rare 0.99% introductory APR for 12 months for balance transfers requested within 60 days of account opening, followed by a 10.49% to 18.00% (variable) APR, which can make paying down high-interest debt more manageable.
The main drawback is eligibility — borrowers without a military affiliation will need to consider non-credit union alternatives.
→ Read LendingTree’s full review of the Navy Federal Platinum Credit Card.
→ See LendingTree’s top picks for balance transfer credit cards for bad or fair credit.
- 0.99% introductory APR for 12 months for balance transfers requested within 60 days of account opening. Applies to balance transfers requested within 60 days of account opening.
- After the intro period, a 10.49% to 18.00% (variable) APR applies
- No balance transfer fee
- No annual fee
Best travel credit card for fair credit
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Key takeaway: Earn elevated cash back on select travel bookings and avoid foreign transaction fees.
- High cash back rate on select travel booked through Capital One’s travel portal
- Flat-rate cash back on purchases
- No foreign transaction fees
- Automatic reviews for credit line increases
- $39 annual fee
- High 28.99% (Variable) APR
- No sign-up bonus
- No intro 0% APR offers
The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card stands out as the best travel card for limited / fair credit because it combines straightforward cash back with travel-friendly features that are rare at this credit level. You can earn rewards on travel purchases without paying foreign transaction fees, making it more practical for trips abroad than many fair-credit alternatives. However, it does charge a $39 annual fee.
→ Read LendingTree’s full review of the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card.
→ See LendingTree’s top picks for travel credit cards.
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
- No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and cash back doesn't expire for the life of the account. It's that simple
- Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
- Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
- Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card use
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
- Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you're all set
- Top rated mobile app
- For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
Best business credit card for fair credit
Capital One Spark Classic for Business*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Key takeaway: Earn cash back for your business with no annual fee or foreign transaction fees.
- Earn cash back on every purchase
- $0 annual fee
- No fee for employee cards
- Built-in expense management tools
- $0 foreign transaction fee
- Low earning rate on general purchases
- Higher earning rates only available for eligible purchases booked through Capital One Business Travel
- No sign-up bonus
The Capital One Spark Classic for Business is a practical rewards card for small business owners with fair credit because it offers cash back on every purchase with no annual fee. It also supports growing businesses with free employee cards, making it easy to earn rewards across team purchases and recurring expenses. With no foreign transaction fees, the card can be useful for business travel, as well as international spending.
→ Read LendingTree’s full review of the Capital One Spark Classic for Business.
→ See LendingTree’s top picks for business credit cards.
- Earn unlimited 1% cash back for your business on every purchase, everywhere, with no limits or category restrictions. Plus, earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Business Travel.
- No annual fee
- Build and strengthen credit for your business by using this credit card responsibly
- $0 Fraud Liability if your card is lost or stolen
- Free employee cards, which also earn unlimited 1% cash back on all purchases
- Rewards won't expire for the life of the account, and you can redeem your cash back for any amount
- No foreign transaction fees
Best student credit card for fair credit
Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Key takeaway: Earn elevated cash back on everyday purchases with no annual fee or foreign transaction fees.
- Higher cash back rates in popular spending categories
- Lower-than-typical spend requirement for the sign-up bonus
- Useful travel and shopping benefits
- $0 annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
- No intro APR offers on purchases or balance transfers
- Restricted to students with some credit history and income
The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is one of the most rewarding cards for students with fair credit because it offers elevated cash back in everyday spending categories without charging an annual fee. Students can earn bonus rewards on dining, groceries and select streaming services, along with a decent welcome offer.
There are also no foreign transaction fees, making it a practical option for students who plan to travel or study abroad.
→ Read LendingTree’s full review of the Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card.
→ See LendingTree’s top picks for student credit cards.
- Earn unlimited 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, plus 1% on all other purchases
- Early Spend Bonus: Earn $50 when you spend $100 in the first three months
- Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
- Enjoy no annual fee, foreign transaction fees, or hidden fees
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn up to $500 a year by referring friends and family when they're approved for a Capital One credit card
- Earn 8% cash back on entertainment purchases when you book through the Capital One Entertainment portal
- Build your credit with responsible card use
- Whether you're at a 4-year university, community college or other higher education institution, this card might be an option for you
- Top rated mobile app
- For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
Best store credit card for fair credit
Amazon Prime Store Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Key takeaway: Earn elevated cash back on Amazon purchases as a Prime member.
- $60 Amazon Gift Card upon approval
- High rewards rate on Amazon purchases
- Promotional 0% financing options
- $0 annual fee
- Prime membership required to earn cash back
- Deferred interest applies on promotional financing
- High interest rate
- Can only use this card for Amazon purchases
The Amazon Prime Store Card is our pick for the best store credit card for fair credit because it offers elevated rewards on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases, with flexible options to earn cash back or use special financing. Store credit cards are often easier to get than traditional cards and can serve as a useful tool for building credit. Note that a Prime membership is required to earn rewards.
→ Read LendingTree’s full review of the Amazon Prime Store Card.
→ See LendingTree’s top picks for Amazon credit cards.
- Choose 0% APR financing: Buy now and pay over time with equal monthly payments on qualifying purchases. Terms apply.
- No annual fee
- Zero fraud liability: You are protected from unauthorized charges.
- Join Prime to earn 5% back: Prime Store Card members can earn 5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market (In-Store Code required) with an eligible Prime membership.
Secured credit cards for fair credit (refundable deposit required)
Best rewards credit card for fair credit
U.S. Bank Altitude Go Visa Secured Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Key takeaway: Earn elevated rewards on everyday purchases while building credit.
- Elevated rewards in popular spending categories
- Streaming credit
- $0 annual fee
- Requires a credit check and hard inquiry
- $300 minimum deposit required
- Foreign transaction fee
The U.S. Bank Altitude Go Visa Secured Card stands out as the best rewards credit card for limited / poor / fair credit because it offers bonus rewards on everyday spending. This makes it a strong choice if you want to earn elevated rewards on purchases like dining, groceries, gas and streaming services while also building credit.
→ See LendingTree’s top picks for rewards credit cards.
- 4X points on dining, takeout and restaurant delivery (on your first $2,000 each quarter).
- 2X points at grocery stores and gas stations/EV charging stations.
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.
- No annual fee.
Best credit card for fair credit with no credit check
opensky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
Key takeaway: Qualify without a credit check while keeping costs low.
- No credit check or bank account required to apply
- Eligible for credit-limit increases and graduation to an unsecured card
- Up to 10% cash back rewards
- $0 annual fee
- $300 minimum security deposit
- Cash back available only through participating merchants
- Few additional perks
- Foreign transaction fee
The opensky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card is a top pick for limited / poor / fair credit if you don’t want a credit check — it even earns our distinction as the overall best no-credit-check credit card. Because it doesn’t require a hard inquiry to apply, it’s a strong option for building or rebuilding credit without risking additional damage to your credit profile.
You’ll need to put down a refundable security deposit starting at $300, which sets your credit limit. With responsible use, cardholders may qualify for credit-limit increases or graduation to an unsecured card.
→ Read LendingTree’s full review of the opensky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card.
→ See LendingTree’s top picks for no credit check credit cards.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- No annual fee – keep more money in your pocket!
- No credit check required – 89% approval rate with zero credit risk to apply!
- Earn up to 10% cash back on everyday purchases
- Boost your credit score fast—2 out of 3 opensky® cardholders see an average increase of 47 points after 6 months
- Track your progress with free access to your FICO® score in our mobile app
- Build your credit history with reporting to all three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion
- Seamless payments—add your card to Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay
- Start with as little as $300 – Secure your line with a refundable security deposit
- Fast and easy application—apply in minutes with our mobile-first experience
- Flexible payment options—pick a due date that works for you
- More time to fund—spread your security deposit over 60 days with layaway
- Join 1.6 million+ cardholders who have used opensky® to build better credit!
Best credit card with a high limit for fair credit
Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Key takeaway: Build credit with a flexible spending limit that grows with your account balance.
- No credit check required
- No minimum security deposit
- Doesn’t charge interest
- $0 annual fee
- $0 foreign transaction fee
- Requires a Chime checking account with direct deposit
- No upgrade to an unsecured card
- Non-rewards card
The Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is our top pick for a high-limit credit card for limited / poor / fair credit because it doesn’t impose a traditional credit limit. Instead, your spending power is based on the amount of money you move into your Credit Builder account, which can make it easier to manage larger expenses responsibly.
Because there’s no annual fee or interest charges, the card is especially appealing if you have limited / poor / fair credit and want to build credit without worrying about carrying a balance or paying extra costs.
→ Read LendingTree’s full review of the Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card.
→ See LendingTree’s top picks for high limit credit cards.
- No annual fees or interest,* no credit check to apply, and no minimum security deposit required3
- Help increase credit score by an average of 30 points1
- View and track your FICO® Score right in the Chime app. FICO Scores are used by 90% of top lenders
- Use everywhere VISA is accepted on everyday purchases, such as gas and groceries, and have these purchases count towards building credit via on-time payments
- Build credit history with your own money - your direct deposit sets how much you could spend, spend up to that amount, and have your monthly balance automatically paid with your direct deposit.
- Instant disable card in-app and real-time transaction alerts to prevent fraudulent activities, 24/7 support to assist you around the clock.
- Interest and fee-free˜ cash withdrawals at 60K+ ATMs at retailers like Walgreens, CVS, and more.
- Apply for a Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card once you sign up for a Chime Checking Account2. See www.chime.com to learn more.
- Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. The secured Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your card for its issuing bank.
- *No interest: Out of network ATM withdrawal fees may apply. See here for details.1 Based on a representative study conducted by Experian®, members who made their first purchase with Credit Builder between June 2020 and October 2020 observed an average FICO® Score 8 increase of 30 points after approximately 8 months. On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score.2 To apply for Credit Builder, you must have an active Chime® Checking Account.3 Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.ATM Disclosure: Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.
What is a fair credit score?
Fair credit ranges from a FICO Score of 580 to 669 or a VantageScore of 601 to 660. The exact range depends on the scoring model used, which is why you may see different numbers when you check your credit score.
Having fair credit typically places you between poor and good credit — a range where options may be more limited, but still meaningful.
Check your credit score for free with LendingTree Spring.
| Credit rating | Credit score |
|---|---|
| Poor credit | 300 to 579 |
| Fair credit | 580 to 669 |
| Good credit | 670 to 739 |
| Very good credit | 740 to 799 |
| Exceptional credit | 800 to 850 |
| Credit rating | Credit score |
|---|---|
| Poor (subprime) | 300 to 600 |
| Fair (near prime) | 601 to 660 |
| Good (prime) | 661 to 780 |
| Excellent (superprime) | 781 to 850 |
How to choose a credit card for fair credit
When comparing credit cards for fair credit, focus on approval likelihood, costs and long-term value. The steps below can help you narrow down your options.
1. Start with approval odds: Focus first on cards designed for fair credit. These cards are more likely to approve applicants with FICO scores between 580 and 669 and typically have clearer eligibility requirements.
2. Look for low or no annual fees: Many fair-credit cards charge no annual fee, which is usually the best place to start. Annual fees can quickly reduce a card’s value — especially if you plan to upgrade to better cards as your credit improves.
Tip: A modest annual fee may be worth considering only if the card offers rewards or features you’ll actually use.
3. Watch for common fees — and know which ones matter: Not all “hidden fees” apply to fair-credit cards, but it’s still important to check for a few common costs:
- Late fees: Often $25 to $40
- Returned payment fees: Charged if a payment doesn’t go through
- Foreign transaction fees: Typically 1% to 3%, though some cards waive them
→ See LendingTree’s full guide on common credit card fees and how to avoid them.
4. Consider rewards — but don’t make them the deciding factor: Fair-credit cards rarely offer premium rewards, but many still earn cash back on everyday purchases. Rewards add value once fees and interest are under control, especially when they’re simple and easy to use.
- Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa® (flat-rate cash back)
- U.S. Bank Altitude Go Visa Secured Card (bonus rewards on everyday spending)
5. Decide whether a secured card makes sense: If qualifying for unsecured cards is difficult, a secured credit card can be a useful stepping stone. These cards require a refundable deposit that becomes your credit limit and often have more predictable approval.
→ See LendingTree’s picks for the best secured credit cards for fair credit.
6. Prioritize cards with an upgrade path: The best fair-credit cards leave room to grow. Some issuers offer automatic credit-limit reviews or allow you to graduate from a secured card to an unsecured one with responsible use — helping you build credit without closing accounts.
- opensky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card (possible credit-limit increases and graduation)
- Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card (automatic credit line reviews)
How to apply for a credit card with fair credit
Applying for a credit card with fair credit often takes a more thoughtful approach. These steps can help improve your chances while limiting unnecessary hits to your credit.
1. Check prequalification: Prequalification uses a soft credit inquiry, which doesn’t affect your score, and can help identify cards you’re more likely to qualify for. While it’s not a guarantee, it can reduce the risk of rejection.
Tip: Use LendingTree’s TreeQual tool to check prequalified offers from multiple issuers.
2. Apply strategically: Focus on cards designed for fair credit and avoid submitting multiple applications at once. You may also have better odds applying with a bank or credit union where you already have an account, since an existing relationship can help.
3. If you’re denied, pause before reapplying: Before submitting another application, consider these options:
- Ask for reconsideration by calling the issuer
- Avoid applying for several cards at the same time
- Become an authorized user on a well-managed account
→ See LendingTree’s full guide on how to apply for a credit card.
What are the easiest credit cards to get with fair credit?
If approval is your top priority, some card types are generally easier to qualify for than traditional rewards cards — though they often come with tradeoffs.
- Secured credit cards: Require a refundable deposit, but usually have more predictable approval.
- Store credit cards: Can be easier to qualify for but are limited to specific retailers and often carry higher APRs.
- Student credit cards: Designed for enrolled students with limited or fair credit histories.
See LendingTree’s picks: Easiest credit cards to get.
Which banks have credit cards for fair credit?
Not every major bank offers credit cards specifically designed for fair credit, but a few issuers consistently stand out for having options that bridge the gap between limited and good credit. These banks tend to offer a mix of unsecured and secured cards and fewer extra fees than cards aimed at those with poor credit.
Below are issuers that currently offer credit cards commonly recommended for fair credit, along with examples of cards that may be worth considering.
Capital One offers one of the strongest lineups for fair credit, with both unsecured and secured cards designed to be accessible without excessive fees. Many Capital One cards also come with automatic credit line reviews and no foreign transaction fees.
Examples:
Discover doesn’t offer many unsecured cards that are broadly recommended for fair credit, but it does have solid student credit cards that are appropriate for fair-credit borrowers who are enrolled in school. These cards combine accessible approval criteria with rewards and no annual fee, making them good options for students building credit.
Example:
For borrowers who qualify for membership, Navy Federal offers some of the most competitive fair-credit cards available — including low-APR and balance-transfer options that are uncommon at this credit level.
Example:
For that reason, this page focuses on cards most commonly recommended for fair credit, rather than every card you might qualify for.
How to improve your credit from fair to good
Having fair credit means you’re close to qualifying for better rates, higher limits and more rewarding credit cards. Improving your score from fair to good can unlock lower interest rates, better rewards and more flexibility — and the steps below can help you get there faster.
- Make on-time payments your top priority: Payment history is the most important factor in your credit score. Paying at least the minimum on time every month helps build a positive record, while autopay or reminders can help prevent costly missteps.
- Keep your credit utilization low: Credit utilization measures how much of your available credit you’re using. Keeping balances below 30% of your limit — and ideally lower — can help improve your score over time.
- Consider a credit builder loan: Credit builder loans report small, fixed payments to the credit bureaus and can help improve your credit mix without taking on traditional debt.
- Use credit-building apps carefully: Services like Experian Boost may add eligible bill payments to your credit report. While they’re not a substitute for good habits, they can provide a modest boost for some borrowers.→ See LendingTree’s full guide on how to improve your credit score.
Frequently asked questions
Yes — a 600 FICO score typically falls within the fair credit range, so approval is possible. That said, issuers also consider factors like income, existing debt and recent payment history. You’ll generally have better odds with cards specifically designed for fair or average credit.
They can be, especially if you’re having trouble qualifying for unsecured cards. Secured cards require a refundable deposit that becomes your credit limit and often have more predictable approval standards.
However, some secured cards are geared toward poor or limited credit, so fair-credit borrowers may want to compare unsecured options first.
Applying usually triggers a hard credit inquiry, which can cause a small, temporary dip in your score. This impact is typically minor, but applying for multiple cards in a short period can add up. Checking for prequalification first can help limit unnecessary inquiries.
→ See LendingTree’s full guide on how opening a new credit card affects your credit score.
Some do, but many fair-credit cards charge no annual fee. If a card does have a fee, make sure the rewards or features are worth the cost — especially if you plan to upgrade to a better card as your credit improves.
Yes. While rewards are usually more modest than those on premium cards, many fair-credit cards offer cash back or category rewards. Just be sure fees and interest don’t outweigh the value of the rewards.
Yes. A fair credit score doesn’t guarantee approval. Issuers also look at income, debt levels, recent credit activity and payment history. That’s why it’s important to apply for cards designed for fair credit and to avoid applying too frequently.
In most cases, it’s better to apply for one card at a time. Multiple applications can reduce approval odds and increase hard inquiries.
→ See LendingTree’s full guide on how many credit cards you should have
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
The information related to the Navy Federal Platinum Credit Card, Capital One Spark Classic for Business, Amazon Prime Store Card, U.S. Bank Altitude Go Visa Secured Card, Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card and Navy Federal cashRewards® Secured Credit Card has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.
