Best Secured Credit Cards for Beginners in the U.S.

When I first started building credit in the U.S., I had no idea where to begin. My bank account was new. I didn’t have a credit score. And every time I applied for a regular card, the answer was the same: “Application denied.”

Sound familiar?

That’s when I discovered beveiligde creditcards — the most beginner-friendly way to get into the credit game without needing a perfect background.

Let me break it down for you, and share the best secured cards for beginners, based on ease of approval, fees, and long-term credit growth.

What Is a Secured Credit Card?

A secured credit card works just like a regular credit card — you swipe, make purchases, and pay monthly. The difference is simple:

➡️ You provide a refundable deposit (usually $200–$500), which becomes your credit limit.

The bank holds that deposit as “security” in case you don’t pay your bill. That way, they’re taking less risk, and you get the chance to build trust.

Why Secured Cards Are Perfect for Beginners

If you’re just getting started — maybe you’re a student, immigrant, or recovering from bad credit — a secured card is often the only way to start building credit safely.

Here’s what I loved about mine:

• 🔒 Guaranteed approval with deposit
• 📈 Monthly credit reporting to the 3 major bureaus
• 💳 Feels like a regular card — accepted everywhere
• 💥 In 6–12 months, many users “graduate” to an unsecured card!

1. Ontdek het® beveiligde creditcard – Best for Rewards

The Discover it® Secured is the rare secured card that actually gives you cashback. Most beginner cards don’t — that’s what makes this one special.

Top Features:

• 💰 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 quarterly)
• 💳 No annual fee
• 🔍 Free FICO® score updates
• 🚀 Automatic review for upgrade after 7 months
• 🛡️ $0 fraud liability

Minimum deposit: $200

✅ Apply for the Discover it® Secured Card (external link)

2. Capital One Platinum-beveiligde creditcard – Best for Low Deposit

Most secured cards require a $200 minimum deposit. But Capital One offers a rare chance to start with just $49 or $99 based on your credit profile.

Top Features:

• 💳 No annual fee
• 📊 Reports to all 3 major credit bureaus
• 🔄 Automatic credit reviews
• 🏦 Access to a higher credit line after 6 months

Minimum deposit: $49, $99 of $200 (based on eligibility)

✅ Explore the Capital One Platinum Secured (external link)

3. Chime Credit Builder Visa®-kaart – Best for Flexibility

Chime’s secured card is funded by your Chime account, not a fixed deposit. That means you can load and spend as you go, with no hard credit check required.

Top Features:

• 🧾 No credit check
• 💵 No annual fee or interest
• 🔐 No minimum deposit — load what you want
• 🧠 Spend what you load, build credit smartly
• 💡 Reports monthly to major credit bureaus

Minimum deposit: Flexibele (linked to your balance)

✅ Check out Chime’s Credit Builder Card (external link)

4. OpenSky® beveiligde Visa®-creditcard – Best for No Credit Check

If your credit is damaged or nonexistent, this card is for you. OpenSky doesn’t do a credit check, making approval more accessible.

Top Features:

• 🛑 No credit check required
• 🧱 Simple application process
• 💳 Set your own credit limit (as low as $200)
• 📊 Reports to all 3 bureaus

Annual fee: $35
Minimum deposit: $200

✅ Learn more about the OpenSky® Visa (external link)

5. Self Secured Credit Card – Best for Building Credit + Savings

This one’s different: You start with a credit builder loan, then use your savings as the security deposit. It’s ideal for those who want to build credit En a savings habit.

Top Features:

• 💼 No hard credit check
• 💰 Set up savings via monthly payments
• 🔁 Convert your savings into a secured credit card
• 📈 Monthly credit reporting

Great option if you don’t have a deposit up front.

✅ Explore the Self Credit Builder Program (external link)

Tips to Use a Secured Credit Card Wisely 💡

Once you’re approved, here’s how to make it count:

• ✅ Use it monthly for small expenses like gas or groceries
• ✅ Pay in full and on time to avoid interest and boost your score
• ✅ Keep utilization below 30% (e.g., spend $60 or less on a $200 limit)
• ✅ Track your score using free tools (Discover, Capital One, and others offer this)
• ✅ Upgrade or graduate to a better card in 6–12 months!

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose? 💭

Als je wilt rewards and a card that grows with you, Ontdek het® Beveiligd is a top choice.
Als je hebt limited cash upfront, go with Kapitaal Eén.
Als je wilt maximum control and no surprises, Chime gives total flexibility.
Need a card without a credit check? Try OpenSky.
Want to build credit while saving money? Self is perfect.

No matter which one you choose, the most important step is getting started.

Don’t wait for the “perfect moment.” Your credit journey begins the moment you take action.

Ready to start building your credit the smart way?
Compare your options, choose your card, and take the first step toward financial freedom today

Geschreven door Arthur Updated on april 29, 2025