Top 10 Credit Cards to Boost Your Credit Score

If you're looking to improve your credit score, a credit card can be your best ally. Using the right card helps you build or rebuild credit while opening doors to better financial opportunities. Some cards are designed specifically for this purpose, offering unique benefits that make them top recommendations. Choosing wisely can set you on the path to financial success.

Why Credit Cards Are Important for Building Credit

How credit cards influence your credit score

Your credit card plays a big role in shaping your credit score. Every time you use it, you’re influencing key factors that determine your creditworthiness. Here’s how it works:

• Payment history: This makes up 35% of your credit score. Paying your credit card bill on time shows lenders you’re reliable.
• Credit utilization: Keeping your balance below 30% of your credit limit is crucial. This factor accounts for 30% of your score.
• Length of credit history: Older accounts are better for your score, contributing 15%.

Other factors, like new credit inquiries and the mix of credit types you manage, also play a role. To visualize this, check out the chart below:

By using your credit card responsibly, you can improve these areas and boost your credit score over time.

Benefits of using credit cards for bad credit

If you’re dealing with bad credit, credit cards for bad credit can be a game-changer. They’re designed to help you rebuild your financial reputation. Here’s why they’re effective:

• Many credit cards for bad credit report to major credit bureaus like Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. This reporting helps you establish a positive credit history.
• Secured credit cards are perfect for beginners or those with poor credit. They require a deposit, but they’re a safe way to start improving your score.
• A study by Experian® found that people who used a Credit Builder card saw their FICO® Score 8 increase by an average of 30 points after just eight months.

Using credit cards for bad credit responsibly—like making on-time payments—can show lenders you’re trustworthy. Over time, this can lead to better credit offers and financial opportunities.

Best Credit Cards for Rebuilding Credit in 2025

Discover it® Secured Credit Card

The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is one of the best credit cards for bad credit. It’s a secured credit card that helps you rebuild your credit while offering rewards. You’ll earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter) and 1% on everything else. Plus, Discover matches all the cash back you earn in your first year.

What makes this card stand out is its upgrade path. After six months of responsible use, many users report graduating to an unsecured card. This means you can get your deposit back while keeping your account open. Users have also shared that this card helped them qualify for higher-limit credit cards later. If you’re looking for a secured credit card with rewards and a high approval rate, this is a great choice.

Capital One Platinum Credit Card

The Capital One Platinum Credit Card is an excellent option if you want a card that’s easy to get and doesn’t require a deposit. It’s designed for people with fair credit, making it a good stepping stone toward better credit. While it doesn’t offer rewards, it does provide access to higher credit limits after just six months of on-time payments.

This card also has no annual fee, which is a big plus when you’re trying to rebuild your credit. It reports to all three major credit bureaus, helping you establish a positive credit history. If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills credit card to improve your credit score, this one fits the bill.

OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card

The OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card is unique because it doesn’t require a credit check. This makes it one of the best credit cards for bad credit, especially if you’ve struggled with approvals in the past. It’s a secured credit card, so you’ll need to provide a refundable deposit, but it’s worth it if you’re serious about rebuilding your credit.

However, this card comes with higher fees compared to some competitors. It doesn’t offer rewards, which might make it less appealing if you’re looking for extra perks. Still, its accessibility and high approval rate make it a solid choice for those starting their credit journey.

Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa® for Rebuilding Credit

The Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa® is designed specifically for rebuilding credit. It offers 1% cash back on eligible purchases, including gas, groceries, and mobile phone services. This card also reports to all three major credit bureaus, which is essential for improving your credit score.

One of its standout features is the prequalification process. You can check if you’re eligible without impacting your credit score. While it does have an annual fee, the rewards and credit-building potential make it a worthwhile option for many.

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

If you’re looking for a credit card that combines rewards with credit-building, the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a fantastic option. It offers 1.5% cash back on every purchase, making it one of the best credit cards for bad credit with rewards. You’ll also enjoy travel and retail benefits, adding extra value to your spending.

This card is easy to get if you have fair credit, and it reports to all three major credit bureaus. While it does have an annual fee, the rewards and benefits often outweigh the cost. If you’re ready to rebuild your credit while earning cash back, this card is worth considering.

Chime Secured Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card

The Chime Secured Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is a game-changer for those looking to rebuild their credit. It doesn’t require a credit check, making it easy to get. Plus, there are no annual fees, interest charges, or minimum security deposits. This card reports to all three major credit bureaus, helping you build a positive credit history.

According to TransUnion, users of this card saw an average credit score increase of 30 points. If you’re looking for a secured credit card with no hidden fees and a high approval rate, this one is a top contender.

Chase Freedom Rise®

The Chase Freedom Rise® is a great option for those new to credit or rebuilding their score. It offers a straightforward rewards program and reports to all three major credit bureaus. Chase is a trusted name in the credit card industry, with nearly 60 million active accounts and a market share of 23.5% in sales.

This card is easy to get if you meet the basic requirements, and it provides an excellent opportunity to build your credit while earning rewards. If you’re looking for a reliable card from a reputable issuer, the Chase Freedom Rise® is a smart choice.

Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card

The Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card is perfect for those with no credit history. It uses your bill payment history to determine eligibility, so you don’t need a traditional credit score to apply. This card offers 1% cash back on purchases, increasing to 1.5% with on-time payments. It also has no annual fee, foreign transaction fees, or late payment fees.

This card reports to all three major credit bureaus, making it a powerful tool for building credit. If you’re looking for a card that’s easy to get and packed with benefits, the Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card is an excellent choice.

Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card

The Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card is a popular choice for rebuilding credit. It requires a refundable deposit, but the amount can be as low as $49, depending on your creditworthiness. This card has no annual fee and reports to all three major credit bureaus.

While it has a high variable APR, it’s a great option if you plan to pay your balance in full each month. If you’re looking for a secured credit card with flexible deposit options and a high approval rate, this one is worth considering.

Credit One Bank American Express Card for Rebuilding Credit

The Credit One Bank American Express Card is an unsecured card designed for rebuilding credit. It reports to all three major credit bureaus monthly, helping you establish a positive credit history. This card is accessible to individuals with poor to good credit scores, making it a versatile option.

While it doesn’t require a deposit, it does have an annual fee. However, the benefits and credit-building potential make it a strong contender for those looking to improve their credit score.

How to Choose the Best Credit Card for Building Credit

Compare fees and interest rates

When choosing a credit card, you want to keep an eye on fees and interest rates. These costs can add up quickly if you're not careful. For example, annual fees can range from $19 to $50, depending on the type of card. Banks tend to charge higher average APRs (25.64%) compared to credit unions (16.08%). Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

If you're rebuilding your credit, look for cards with low or no annual fees and manageable APRs. Paying your balance in full each month can also help you avoid interest charges altogether.

Look for rewards and benefits

Rewards can make your credit card more valuable. Many cards offer cash back, travel perks, or discounts on everyday purchases. Did you know that 69% of consumers prefer cards with personalized features? Younger users, like Gen Z, often look for rewards tied to their interests, such as clothing discounts.

Some issuers even credit rewards daily, giving you instant gratification. If rewards matter to you, pick a card that aligns with your spending habits.

Check credit bureau reporting policies

A credit card's reporting policy can directly impact your credit history. Cards that report to all three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion—are ideal for building credit. Here's why:

Make sure your card reports consistently to help you build a strong credit report.

Align with your financial goals

Your credit card should match your financial goals. If you're focused on improving your credit history, a secured card might be the best choice. For those who want rewards, look for cards that offer cash back or travel perks.

• Aligning your card with your spending habits can unlock more value.
• Responsible usage helps you build credit history and improve your credit score.
• Choosing the right card ensures you maximize benefits while working toward your goals.

Think about what you need most—whether it's low fees, rewards, or credit-building features—and pick a card that fits your lifestyle.

Tips for Using Credit Cards Responsibly to Build Credit

Pay your balance on time

Paying your credit card balance on time is one of the most important habits for building credit. Late payments can hurt your credit score, but consistent on-time payments show lenders you’re reliable. Since payment history makes up 35% of your credit score, it’s a powerful way to rebuild your credit.

Set up automatic payments or reminders to avoid missing due dates. If you’re using a secured card or an unsecured credit card for bad credit, this habit can help you transition to better options over time. Tools like Experian Boost can even capture positive payment histories for utilities, giving your score an extra lift.

Keep your credit utilization low

Your credit utilization ratio is the percentage of your available credit that you’re using. Keeping this ratio below 30% is key to building credit. For example, if your credit limit is $1,000, aim to keep your balance under $300.

Using less of your available credit shows lenders you’re managing your finances well. This is especially important if you’re using unsecured cards or a credit card for bad credit. Managing your utilization effectively can significantly boost your score over time.

Avoid excessive applications

Applying for too many credit cards in a short period can hurt your credit score. Each application triggers a hard inquiry, which stays on your report for up to two years. While the impact fades over time, too many inquiries can make lenders hesitant to approve you.

Stick to applying for one credit card every six months. Whether you’re considering secured cards or unsecured credit cards, focus on quality over quantity. This approach helps you build credit without unnecessary setbacks.

Monitor your credit score regularly

Keeping an eye on your credit score helps you track your progress and spot any errors. Lenders use your score to assess your risk, so knowing where you stand is crucial. The average FICO score is 714, but if yours is below 669, you’re in the fair or poor range.

Use free tools from major credit bureaus to check your score monthly. Monitoring trends over time helps you adjust your strategy for building credit. If you’re using unsecured cards or a secured card, regular checks ensure you’re moving in the right direction.

Rebuilding your credit takes time, but the right credit card can make the process easier. Pick one that matches your financial needs and goals. Use it wisely to see steady improvements in your score. Don’t wait—start your journey today with one of the top credit cards for rebuilding credit in 2025.

FAQ

What is the best type of credit card for rebuilding credit?

Secured credit cards are the best choice. They require a refundable deposit and help you build credit by reporting to major credit bureaus.

How long does it take to improve your credit score with a credit card?

You can see improvements in as little as six months. Consistent on-time payments and low credit utilization speed up the process.

Can you get a credit card with no credit check?

Yes! Cards like the OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® don’t require a credit check, making them ideal if you’ve struggled with approvals before.