What is a secured credit card and how does it work?

When used responsibly, a secured credit card can be a great tool to help you build good credit. But before applying, it may help to understand how secured cards work. Keep reading to learn more about what secured credit cards are and the potential benefits they may offer.

Key takeaways

• To open a secured credit card, a cardholder typically makes a one-time, refundable security deposit.
• Secured card credit limits vary by card. The limit may be the same amount as the deposit or more—depending on the issuer.
• A secured credit card may be a good option for people looking to establish a credit history or to rebuild their credit scores.
   

A secured credit card is a type of credit card that requires a security deposit to open the account. The cardholder typically makes a one-time, refundable deposit that acts as collateral for the credit card issuer.

A secured credit card can be a great option if you’re trying to build, rebuild or establish credit. And building with a credit card through responsible use can make you a better candidate for things like mortgages, car loans and other credit cards.

When you pay for something, secured cards and other credit cards are the same. 

But to open a secured card account, the credit card issuer requires a security deposit from the cardholder. The issuer holds the deposit while the account is open—similar to a landlord holding the security deposit for an apartment.

The biggest difference between a secured and an unsecured credit card is the security deposit. Unsecured credit cards don’t require a deposit to open an account. 

Rewards like cash back or miles may also be limited with secured cards. But not in all cases. Take the Quicksilver Secured Rewards card, which offers cardholders 1.5% cash back on every purchase.

Sometimes secured card credit limits are the same amount as the security deposit. But that’s not always the case either. Capital One can offer secured cards with limits that are higher than the initial deposit—like extending a credit line of $200 with a $49 or $99 security deposit.

Applying for a secured credit card can work differently depending on the credit card issuer. But here’s how applying for a secured card could work:

It may help to learn more about how to apply for a credit card. You could also check whether you’re pre-approved for a card. It’s quick and secure—and checking won’t hurt your credit score.

As with any credit card, getting approved for a secured card isn’t guaranteed. Each credit card issuer has its own policies and qualifications. Aside from a security deposit, there may be additional requirements based on creditworthiness. Before you apply, be sure to look at things like the card’s annual percentage rate (APR) and whether there are any hidden fees.

Deposit requirements can vary. Some card issuers allow you to fund your deposit over a period of time. Others may require an upfront deposit. 

Deposit amounts can vary too. In some cases, the deposit may be the same as your line of credit. For example, a $200 deposit might give you a $200 credit limit. 

But some cards—like the Capital One Platinum Secured card—might provide a credit limit that’s higher than the amount of the security deposit. With Platinum Secured, an initial security deposit of $49, $99 or $200, depending on your credit history, can open an account with a credit line of $200. Platinum Secured also lets cardholders raise their credit limit by depositing more than the minimum.

Once you’ve been approved for a secured credit card and made your deposit, you can use the card to make purchases in person or online—just like with a traditional, unsecured credit card. Many secured cards look like typical credit cards. So chances are no one but you will know you’re using a secured card.

If your goal is to build credit, it’s important to use your credit card responsibly. That means doing things like making on-time payments every month. 

There are plenty of advantages to using secured credit cards. A secured card could help you:

• Gain experience using a credit card
• Have access to a line of credit when you need it
• Build your credit with responsible use—like paying your bill on time every month
• Work toward qualifying for a credit card with better rewards or a higher credit limit

When it comes to using a secured card, credit-building tips are similar to those for a traditional credit card. Here are a few you can use to help set yourself up for success: 

• Understand your deposit: Make sure you’re able to fully fund your deposit within the time frame required by the card issuer. If you don’t fund the deposit in time, there’s a chance the lender may close your account.
• Keep track of your spending and statements: Your credit card may be declined if you exceed your credit limit. And if you’re paying interest, you could end up owing more than your initial deposit. But paying your statement balance in full and on time each month can help you avoid interest charges and late fees.
• Use a budget: If you only use the card for a few fixed purchases a month, it may be easier to stay within your limit. And that could help you get used to using a credit card. 
• Choose a card issuer that reports your credit activity: Some credit card issuers may not report secured credit card accounts. If you’re looking to build your credit by responsibly using a secured card, make sure your issuer reports to at least one of the 3 major credit bureaus: Experian®, Equifax® or TransUnion®. It’s worth noting that Capital One reports to all three bureaus.

Check out this guide to building credit with a secured card for more tips.

Learn more about secured credit cards with these frequently asked questions:

A secured credit card is a type of credit card that’s opened with a one-time deposit. These cards can be helpful tools for people looking to establish or improve their credit. 

If you’ve never had a credit card before or want to improve your credit score, a secured card might be the way to go. Building good credit takes time. But secured cards, like Platinum Secured or Quicksilver Secured, could help you build credit with responsible use and help you build a better financial future.