Question 1

How Do I Know If My Credit Is Considered “Fair”?

Accepted Answer

Each credit-scoring model and company has a different interpretation of “fair credit.” According to FICO®, for example, a fair credit score falls between 580 and 669. According to VantageScore®, a fair score ranges between 601 and 660. 
Capital One credit cards for fair credit include QuicksilverOne, Quicksilver Secured, and the Platinum Mastercard. 
Your credit score is only one of the many factors that determine your credit approval odds. The best way to know if you’ll qualify is to get pre-approved. It’s quick, easy and won’t hurt your score.

Question 2

Which Card Is Best for Building Credit?

Accepted Answer

If you’re simply new to the world of credit or are trying to expand your credit history, consider applying for a credit card for fair credit, like QuicksilverOne, the Quicksilver Secured, or the Platinum Mastercard. You can get pre-approved to see what you may qualify for. Or, if you’re a student, explore our student credit card options.

Question 3

Which Card Is Best for Rebuilding Credit?

Accepted Answer

If you’re looking to rebuild your credit, that could mean that you’ve defaulted on a loan more than once or that you’ve been declined for a credit card in the last three months. The Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card may be a good option for those rebuilding credit. And as you explore your credit card options, consider getting pre-approved. Doing so won’t damage your credit score, and you’ll be able to get a clearer sense of which cards you may qualify for.

Question 4

What’s the Difference Between Secured and Unsecured Credit Cards?

Accepted Answer

A secured credit card requires the applicant to make a security deposit to open their account. This deposit serves to protect the card issuer and, in many cases, the amount you deposit becomes your credit limit. 
Secured credit cards tend to be a good option for those looking to build or rebuild their credit. And with consistent, responsible use, you can improve your credit scores, earn back your security deposit* and become eligible for an unsecured credit card. 
Unsecured credit cards are likely what you think of as a “typical" credit card—a revolving line of credit that does not require a security deposit.

Question 5

How Do I Know if I Will Be Approved?

Accepted Answer

When applying for a credit card, there are several factors that go into the approval decision, like your credit score, income, and how much debt you have. 
If you want to see your eligibility for a Capital One credit card before applying, consider getting pre-approved. You can see which cards you may be eligible for before you apply—without hurting your credit score.

Question 6

Will Getting Pre-Approved Hurt My Credit Score?

Accepted Answer

No—checking to see if you’re pre-approved with Capital One will cause no risk or damage to your credit score. Our pre-approval tool will show you the cards you may be eligible for, so you can apply with confidence.

Question 7

How Can I Improve My Credit Score?

Accepted Answer

Want to raise your credit score? Here are some things you can do to help improve your score over time: 
1. Monitor your credit regularly by downloading CreditWise by Capital One.2. Pay your bills on time each month.3. Stay below your credit limit.4. Limit the number of hard inquiries made on your credit report.Once you’ve taken these steps to raise your credit score, it might be time to get pre-approved and see which credit card option will best fit your needs.

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