Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit in 2025
Rebuilding your credit doesn’t have to be a struggle—especially when you have the right tools in your wallet. Whether you’re just starting out or recovering from financial setbacks, the right credit card can help you build or rebuild your credit score responsibly. Here’s a look at some of the best credit cards for bad credit in 2025, including both secured and unsecured options.
🥇 Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Best for: Rewards and rebuilding credit- Cashback rewards: Earn 2% at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 per quarter), 1% on everything else.
- No annual fee
- Free FICO score access
- Automatic review after 7 months to upgrade to an unsecured card
- Security deposit: $200 minimum
💳 Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
Best for: Flexible deposit requirements- No annual fee
- Deposit as low as $49 (based on creditworthiness)
- Automatic credit limit reviews for potential increases
- Security deposit: $49, $99, or $200
🔄 OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
Best for: No credit check- No credit check required to apply
- Reports to all 3 credit bureaus
- Great for those with no or poor credit history
- Annual fee: $35
- Security deposit: Starts at $200
📈 Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card
Best for: No interest charges- No annual fee, no interest, no credit check
- Linked to Chime’s Spending Account and secured by your balance
- Build credit without traditional debt
- Requirements: Must have a Chime Spending Account and qualifying direct deposit
🛠 Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card
Best for: Unsecured option for bad credit- Unsecured card – no deposit required
- Reports to all 3 major credit bureaus
- Possible credit limit increases over time
- Annual fee: $0–$59 (varies by offer)
Quick Tips for Using These Cards to Build Credit
- Pay your balance on time every month (even the minimum)
- Keep your credit utilization low (under 30% is ideal)
- Avoid applying for too many cards at once
- Monitor your credit score regularly
Final Thoughts:
Bad credit isn’t the end of the road—it’s just the beginning of a rebuild. With the right credit card and good financial habits, you can improve your credit score and open the door to better financial opportunities. Whether you prefer the rewards of Discover or the no-deposit flexibility of Mission Lane, there’s a card out there for your needs in 2025.