A poor credit score doesn’t just impact your ability to get a credit card—it can affect your life in many frustrating ways. From being denied for a loan to paying higher interest rates, having terrible credit can feel like a dead-end. But here’s the truth: it’s not.
There are ways to rebuild, recover, and restart. And it begins with the right credit card for terrible credit—and possibly some expert help from Mountains Debt Relief to tackle your larger financial challenges.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
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What terrible credit actually means
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How Credit Cards For Terrible Credit work
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The best options available in 2025
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How to responsibly use them
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And when it’s time to ask for help
If you’re looking for credit cards for terrible credit, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore your path back to financial health.
What Is Considered Terrible Credit?
A credit score below 550 is generally considered very poor or terrible by most lenders. This range indicates serious financial difficulties, often due to:
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Late payments or missed payments
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Defaulted loans
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Collections or charge-offs
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Bankruptcy
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High credit utilization
If you’re in this range, don’t panic. Many people have successfully climbed out of this bracket and rebuilt excellent credit—with the right tools and consistent habits.
Can You Really Get a Credit Card with Terrible Credit?
Yes, you can. While many traditional credit cards won’t approve applicants with poor scores, there are specific cards designed for people with terrible credit. These include:
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Secured credit cards: Require a refundable security deposit.
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Unsecured credit cards for poor credit: No deposit, but often higher fees.
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Credit-builder cards: Specifically designed to help you improve your credit.
Using these responsibly can help you build a positive credit history and eventually qualify for better credit cards and lower interest rates.
What to Look for in Credit Cards for Terrible Credit
When choosing a credit card in this situation, be strategic. Here’s what to focus on:
🔍 Reports to all 3 credit bureaus: This ensures your progress is tracked.
💳 Reasonable fees: Avoid cards with high annual or monthly fees.
💰 Affordable deposit (for secured cards): Look for deposits as low as $49.
📈 Credit limit increase opportunities: Some cards review your account after a few months.
🛡️ No hidden fees or traps: Transparency is key.
Top Credit Cards for Terrible Credit in 2025
1. Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Best for: Earning rewards while rebuilding credit
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Deposit: $200 minimum
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Annual Fee: $0
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Cashback: 2% at gas stations and restaurants
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Reports to: All major credit bureaus
This card is rare—it lets you rebuild and earn cash back. Plus, Discover reviews your account after 7 months to consider upgrading you to an unsecured card.
2. OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
Best for: No credit check required
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Deposit: $200
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Annual Fee: $35
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No credit history needed: Perfect if you’ve been rejected before
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Reports to: All three bureaus
If your credit score is too low for other cards, OpenSky is a solid option. You won’t undergo a credit check, which is a major relief for many.
3. Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
Best for: Low deposit and upgrade potential
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Deposit: $49 to $200 based on creditworthiness
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Annual Fee: $0
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Upgrade path: You may qualify for an unsecured version later
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Reports to: All three credit bureaus
Capital One is known for helping people rebuild their credit. Their secured card is ideal if you want a low-cost, high-potential option.
4. Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa®
Best for: Unsecured option for rebuilding credit
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Annual Fee: Varies, typically around $75-$99
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APR: High (24% or more)
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Cashback: 1% on eligible purchases
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Reports to: All three bureaus
Though it comes with fees, this unsecured card is one of the few available to people with terrible credit. If you manage it wisely, it can be a stepping stone to better credit.
5. Reflex® Mastercard®
Best for: Higher credit limits
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Credit Limit: $300 to $2,000
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Annual Fee: Varies
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Reports to: All major credit bureaus
Reflex offers higher limits after just six months of on-time payments. However, it comes with higher fees and interest rates, so use it cautiously.
How to Rebuild Credit with a Card for Terrible Credit
Once you get a card, here’s how to use it to actually improve your credit score:
✅ 1. Pay On Time – Every Time
Set up automatic payments or calendar reminders. Even a single missed payment can set you back.
✅ 2. Keep Your Balance Low
Use less than 30% of your limit. If your card has a $300 limit, try not to use more than $90.
✅ 3. Don’t Apply for Multiple Cards
Too many applications can hurt your score. Stick with one or two max.
✅ 4. Check Your Credit Report
Look for errors and dispute anything incorrect. You can check your report for free at AnnualCreditReport.com.
✅ 5. Use It Monthly
Use the card regularly, even for small purchases, and pay off the balance completely.
What If Credit Cards Aren’t Enough?
If your debt is overwhelming—if your credit cards are maxed out, collection agencies are calling, or you’re just making minimum payments—getting another credit card might not be the solution.
You might need a full financial reset.
That’s where Mountains Debt Relief comes in.
Why Choose Mountains Debt Relief?
Mountains Debt Relief is here to help you take control of your debt and finally breathe easy. Whether you’re dealing with:
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Credit card debt
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Personal loans
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Collections
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High-interest balances
They offer proven solutions to help you:
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Negotiate with creditors
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Consolidate your payments
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Reduce what you owe
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Stop the calls and pressure
You don’t have to face this alone. Help is just a click away.
👉 Explore your options now:
🔗 Mountains Debt Relief – Credit Cards for Terrible Credit
Don’t Miss Out on Additional Savings
Looking to save more as you rebuild? Access exclusive offers, discounts, and credit-friendly promotions at:
🎯 Get Top Promotions – Financial & Credit Deals
This platform brings together trusted offers to help you save money and make smarter financial choices, especially while you’re rebuilding.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Stuck
Having terrible credit is frustrating—but it’s not permanent. You have real options, and with a little discipline, time, and the right support, you can rise out of financial hardship stronger than ever.
Here’s what you can do today:
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Pick a credit card for terrible credit that fits your needs
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Start using it responsibly
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Track your progress each month
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Reach out to Mountains Debt Relief if you’re struggling with bigger financial burdens
You’re not alone—and your comeback starts now.