Top 3 Secured Credit Cards to Build Credit Fast in the US
Credit-building itself-from scratch or rebuilding it after a difficult situation-can often get overwhelming. That said, if we are to consider the good aspects, secured credit cards are among the fastest and easiest ways to build credit and are indeed available even with a less-than-perfect credit rating. Whether you are a student, an immigrant newly arrived, or just someone needing a financial reset, his guide will walk you through the top 3 secured credit cards to build credit fast in the US. Alongside, it will discuss which ones are better options, what differs them from others, and how to use them wisely as a credit uplift tool.
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What Is a Secured Credit Card (And Why It Works)?
A secured credit card requires a refundable security deposit, which usually becomes your credit limit. It’s designed for people with no credit or poor credit. The best part? These cards report to the major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—just like regular cards.
Use your card responsibly (think small purchases + on-time payments), and you’ll see your score improve within a few months.
Best Secured Credit Cards to Build Credit Fast
1. Discover it® Secured Credit Card – Best for: Earning rewards while building credit
Why it stands out:
- 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 in combined purchases per quarter)
- 1% unlimited cashback on all other purchases
- Cashback Match™: All your cashback is doubled at the end of your first year
- Reports to all 3 credit bureaus
- $0 annual fee
Deposit: Starts at $200
Upgrade path: Automatic account reviews after 7 months for potential unsecured upgrade
Bonus: Most secured cards don’t offer rewards—Discover does, and it’s a game-changer.
2. Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card – Best for: Flexible deposit options and fast approval
Why it stands out:
- Low initial deposit—as little as $49 can get you a $200 limit (based on creditworthiness)
- No annual fee
- Access to higher credit line after 6 months with on-time payments
- Reports to all major credit bureaus
Deposit: $49, $99, or $200
Upgrade path: Considered for unsecured card with responsible use
Pro Tip: Great option if you want to get started with less money upfront.
More info on Capital One’s site
3. Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa® Credit Card – Best for: Total beginners with no credit history
Why it stands out:
- No credit check required
- No annual fee, no interest, no minimum deposit
- Works with your Chime Spending Account
- Helps build credit safely by only allowing you to spend what you add to the secured account
- Reports to all 3 credit bureaus
Deposit: No traditional deposit—your credit line is based on funds you move from your Chime account
Best for: Those who want to build credit without risking debt
How to Use Secured Credit Cards and Build your Credit Fast
Just having a secured card isn’t enough you need to use it wisely. Here’s how:
- Keep It Active
- Use it for small, regular purchases like coffee, groceries, or streaming subscriptions.
- Pay On Time, Every Time
- Set up auto-pay or reminders to never miss a payment—payment history is 35% of your credit score!
- Keep Utilization Low
- Keep your balance under 30% of your credit limit (ideally under 10%).
- Monitor Your Progress
- Use free tools like Credit Karma or your bank’s credit tracker to watch your score improve.
Who Should Get a Secured Credit Card?
- Students building credit for the first time
- New immigrants to the US without a credit history
- Anyone with bad credit looking to rebuild
- People who were denied regular cards but want a foot in the door
Quick Comparison: Top 3 Secured Credit Cards
| Card | Annual Fee | Minimum Deposit | Rewards | Reports To Bureaus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Discover it® Secured | $0 | $200 | Yes | Yes |
| Capital One Platinum Secured | $0 | $49–$200 | No | Yes |
| Chime Credit Builder | $0 | No traditional deposit | No (but safe spend features) | Yes |
Final Thoughts: The Fast Track to Better Credit Starts Here
Want to boost your credit score in the US? A secured credit card is a super fast way to do it! Just pick the one that suits your lifestyle, make sure to pay on time, and keep your spending in check.
Before you know it, you’ll qualify for better cards, better rates—and better peace of mind. Ready to start building credit fast? Pick one of the top secured cards above and take the first step today.
