Best Easy Approval Credit Cards in the USA (Even With Bad or No Credit)

Struggling to get approved for a credit card due to poor or no credit? You're not alone—millions face this challenge. Fortunately, some credit cards are designed with easier approval criteria to help you build or rebuild your credit score from the ground up.

Person holding a credit card and smartphone, with icons showing instant approval and a rising credit score chart in the background.

Best Credit Cards for Instant Approval (Even With Bad or No Credit)

If you're looking for credit cards that are easier to get approved for in the U.S., here are a few popular options:

Secured credit cards: These require a cash deposit as collateral, which acts as your credit limit. They usually offer more flexible approval and often come with lower interest rates.
Student credit cards: Designed for college students with little to no credit history, these cards typically offer lower credit limits and easier qualification standards.
Store credit cards: Retailers like Walmart, Target, and Macy’s offer credit cards with relaxed approval requirements. These can be a smart choice if you shop frequently at a specific store.

Regardless of the type of card you choose, responsible usage is key. Always pay your balance on time to avoid interest and fees, and make sure to review all terms and conditions before applying.

Best Easy Approval Credit Cards in the USA

Looking for a credit card that's easy to get approved for and packed with perks? Here are some top-rated easy credit card approval USA options that are beginner-friendly and ideal for those with limited or poor credit history:

Here's a quick comparison of some of the best easy-approval credit cards for those with limited or poor credit in the U.S

Credit Card	Minimum Deposit	Credit Check Required?	Annual Fee	Main Benefits
Capital One Platinum Secured	$49 or $99 or $200*	Yes	None	Potential credit limit increase with on-time payments. Reports to all three major credit bureaus.
OpenSky® Secured Visa®	$200	No	$35	No credit check required. Great for those with bad or no credit.
Discover it® Secured	$200	Yes	None	2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants. Reviewed for upgrade to unsecured card.
Petal® 1 Visa Credit Card	No deposit required	Yes (uses alternative data)	None	Up to 10% cashback at select merchants. No traditional credit history needed.

Before applying, be sure to compare each card’s benefits, requirements, and fees to find the right fit for your credit needs and lifestyle.

Illustration of a person receiving instant credit card approval on a smartphone, with credit card icons, approval checkmarks, and a U.S. flag in the background.

Capital One Platinum Secured

Build credit with a refundable security deposit and get access to a higher credit line after making on-time payments. No annual fee and reports to all three major credit bureaus.

OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card

No credit check required for approval, making it ideal for those with bad or no credit. Just provide a refundable deposit and start building your credit responsibly.

Discover it® Secured

Earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to a quarterly maximum), and 1% on all other purchases. No annual fee, and your account is reviewed for upgrade to an unsecured card.

Petal® 1 Visa Credit Card

Perfect for first-time credit users looking to establish a strong credit history—without the need for a security deposit., Petal 1 doesn’t require a security deposit and uses alternative data to evaluate creditworthiness. Offers up to 10% cash back at select merchants.

Before applying, be sure to compare each card’s benefits, requirements, and fees to find the right fit for your credit needs and lifestyle.

How to Build Credit Fast in the USA

If you’re trying to establish or improve your credit quickly in the United States, here are several effective strategies:

Apply for a secured credit card

A secured credit card is ideal for those with limited or poor credit. It requires a refundable deposit that acts as your credit limit, helping you build credit with responsible use.

Get a store credit card

Retail credit cards from stores like Target, Walmart, or Macy’s typically have easier approval requirements. They’re a practical option if you want to build credit while making everyday purchases.

Become an authorized user

If someone you trust adds you as an authorized user to their credit card, their positive payment history can boost your credit. Just remember: both users are responsible for any charges made on the account.

Take out a secured loan

Using assets like a car or home as collateral, secured loans may be easier to get than unsecured ones. But be cautious—missing payments could result in losing the asset.

Apply for a personal loan

If you have a stable income and decent credit, a personal loan might be an option. These loans often have favorable terms, though they may take longer to process compared to credit cards.

No matter which method you choose, always pay on time, avoid carrying high balances, and review all terms and fees before applying. Responsible credit use is the key to building a strong credit history quickly.

Illustration of a person climbing credit score steps with a credit card, next to a rising credit score gauge and U.S. flag background, symbolizing fast credit building.

How to Get a Credit Card With No Credit in the USA

If you don’t have a credit history in the U.S., getting approved for a traditional credit card can be challenging. However, several beginner-friendly options can help you get started:

Consider a student credit card

If you're currently enrolled in college, you may qualify for a student credit card. These cards typically come with lower limits and less strict requirements.

Become an authorized user

Ask a trusted friend or family member to add you as an authorized user on their credit card. Their positive credit history can help boost your own, but keep in mind that both parties are responsible for any charges made.

Look for credit-building programs

Some credit card issuers offer cards specifically designed for individuals with no credit history. For example, the Deserve Edu Mastercard is available to international students and doesn’t require a deposit.

Whichever option you choose, be sure to use your card responsibly—make payments on time, avoid carrying large balances, and always read the card’s terms and fees before applying.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right credit card is the first step toward building or rebuilding your credit. Whether you opt for a secured card, student card, or store card, responsible use is key. Always pay on time, stay within your credit limit, and monitor your score. The journey to excellent credit starts now—make your move with confidence.

FAQ

Yes, many secured credit cards and student credit cards are designed for individuals with little or no credit history. Becoming an authorized user is also a helpful option.

When you apply, a hard inquiry is usually performed, which may slightly lower your score temporarily. However, using the card responsibly can help improve your credit over time.

It depends on the card issuer. Most secured cards require a deposit between $200–$500, but some (like Capital One) offer flexible deposit amounts based on your eligibility.

Yes, store credit cards are often easier to qualify for and can help build credit if used responsibly. However, they may come with higher interest rates.

A secured card requires a refundable deposit as collateral, while an unsecured card does not. Secured cards are typically easier to get if you have no or bad credit.