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Best Credit Cards For Fair Credit Of 2025

Updated: Feb 24, 2025, 2:22pm
Becky Pokora
Becky Pokora
Becky PokoraCredit Card Rewards Expert
With more than 50 million redeemed miles under her belt, Becky Pokora is a rewards travel expert. She's been writing about credit cards and reward travel since 2011 with articles on Forbes Advisor, BoardingArea, The Points Guy and more. Her redemptio...
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Written By
Becky Pokora
Becky Pokora
Becky PokoraCredit Card Rewards Expert
With more than 50 million redeemed miles under her belt, Becky Pokora is a rewards travel expert. She's been writing about credit cards and reward travel since 2011 with articles on Forbes Advisor, BoardingArea, The Points Guy and more. Her redemptio...
Read Full BioSee Full Bio
Credit Card Rewards Expert
Robin Saks Frankel
Robin Saks Frankel
Robin Saks FrankelSenior Staff Writer
Robin has worked as a credit cards, editor and spokesperson for over a decade. Prior to Forbes Advisor, she also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including USA TODAY, NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She...
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Edited By
Robin Saks Frankel
Robin Saks Frankel
Robin Saks FrankelSenior Staff Writer
Robin has worked as a credit cards, editor and spokesperson for over a decade. Prior to Forbes Advisor, she also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including USA TODAY, NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She...
Read Full BioSee Full Bio
Senior Staff Writer
Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.
Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.
Expert Reviewed by
Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.Credit Card and Personal Finance Expert
Demissew Ejara currently teaches finance and conducts research at the University of New Haven. He has more than twenty-five years of teaching experience across several institutions. He has taught courses in financial market and institutions, corporat...
Read Full BioSee Full Bio
Expert Reviewed
Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.
Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.
Expert Reviewed by
Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.Credit Card and Personal Finance Expert
Demissew Ejara currently teaches finance and conducts research at the University of New Haven. He has more than twenty-five years of teaching experience across several institutions. He has taught courses in financial market and institutions, corporat...
Read Full BioSee Full Bio
Credit Card and Personal Finance Expert
& 2 others
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

Having fair credit can put you in a tough position. It doesn’t quite offer the level of confidence most credit card issuers want to see before they approve you for the more competitive cards, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any good cards for fair credit.

Using one of these credit cards for average credit responsibly can build your credit score over time, which could help you qualify for better cards in the future.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our credit card editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Advertisers do not and cannot influence our ratings. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the credit card methodology for the ratings below.

  • Unbiased editorial team
  • No AI writing
  • 400+ credit cards rated
  • 65 years of industry experience
Read more
Show Summary

Best Credit Cards for Fair Credit

Find The Best Credit Card

Featured Partner Offer

Citi Double Cash® Card

Ad
Apply Now Apply Now
On Citi’s Website
Citi Double Cash® Card
Click Here To Apply Now

Rates & Fees 
Apply Now Apply Now
On Citi’s Website

Up to 2% Reward Rate

Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you payRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn $200 cash back

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% – 28.24% (Variable)

Credit Score

Excellent, Good, Fair

Card Details
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, a special travel offer, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/25.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.24% – 28.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Summary of the Best Credit Cards for Fair Credit 2025

CREDIT CARD OUR Rating & DETAILS
Citi Double Cash® Card
Citi Double Cash® Card
Apply Now Apply Now
On Citi's Website
Rates & Fees
5.0

Welcome Bonus

Earn $200 cash back

Credit Score

Excellent, Good, Fair

Annual Fee

$0

Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards
Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards
Apply Now Apply Now
On Credit One Bank's Website
Rates & Fees
4.8

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Credit Score

Fair/Good

Annual Fee

$95

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Apply Now Apply Now
On Capital One's Website
Rates & Fees
3.9

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Credit Score

Average, Fair, Limited

Annual Fee

$39

U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card
U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card *
3.6

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Credit Score

Fair/Good

Annual Fee

$0

Credit Card
Citi Double Cash® Card
Rates & Fees
Citi Double Cash® Card
Apply Now Apply Now
On Citi's Website
Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards
Rates & Fees
Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards
Apply Now Apply Now
On Credit One Bank's Website
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Rates & Fees
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Apply Now Apply Now
On Capital One's Website
U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card
U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card *
Credit Card
Our Rating
Annual Fee
Credit Score
Welcome Bonus
Learn More
Citi Double Cash® Card
Rates & Fees
Citi Double Cash® Card
5.0
$0
Excellent, Good, Fair
Earn $200 cash back
Apply Now Apply Now
On Citi's Website
Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards
Rates & Fees
Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards
4.8
$95
Fair/Good
N/A
Apply Now Apply Now
On Credit One Bank's Website
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Rates & Fees
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
3.9
$39
Average, Fair, Limited
N/A
Apply Now Apply Now
On Capital One's Website
U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card
U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card *
3.6
$0
Fair/Good
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
N/A
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
N/A
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
N/A
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Best Credit Cards for Fair Credit of 2025

Best Flat-Rate Cash-Back Card

Citi Double Cash® Card

Apply Now Apply Now
On Citi's Website
Citi Double Cash® Card
Click Here To Apply Now
Rates & Fees 
5.0
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Apply Now Apply Now
On Citi's Website

Up to 2% Reward Rate

Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you payRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn $200 cash back

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% - 28.24% (Variable)

Credit Score

Excellent, Good, Fair

Our Expert Take

With the ability to earn flat-rate cash back on all purchases, the Citi Double Cash® Card is a solid option for those who make their payments on time.

Why We Like It

The Citi Double Cash card offers a straightforward rewards program. There is no limit to the cash back you can earn. Generally, cash-back rewards this generous are only available to those with better credit.

This card is one of the top welcome bonus cards available for those with fair credit. The combination of this bonus, the ongoing rewards potential and the lack of an annual fee makes it a top pick.

What We Don’t Like

While the Double Cash earns cash back as ThankYou® Points, these cannot be transferred to the full list of Citi travel partners. However, points can be transferred to Choice Privileges, TrueBlue and Wyndham Rewards programs.

While the card offers an intro APR on balance transfers, doing so will waive your grace period on purchases unless the entire balance, including any transferred amount, is paid by the payment due date. If you need to do a balance transfer and also use the card for purchases to earn the welcome bonus, another card would be a better choice. The Double Cash card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, so we recommend a different card for international travel.

Who It’s Best For

Whether you have fair or excellent credit, the Double Cash is among the best cash-back cards available, with a simple program that doesn’t require extra research or effort. It’s ideal for people who don’t plan to carry a balance.

Pros & Cons
  • Earn up to 2% cash back—1% when the purchase is made and 1% when payment is made on the account
  • Unlimited cash back
  • No annual fee
  • Introductory APR period for balance transfers
  • Great opportunity to pair with other Citi credit cards
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Lack of benefits seen in other no annual fee cards
  • No introductory APR on purchases
Card Details
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, a special travel offer, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/25.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.24% – 28.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Fair-Credit Card for Travel

Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards

Apply Now Apply Now
On Credit One Bank's Website
Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards
Click Here To Apply Now
Rates & Fees 
4.8
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Apply Now Apply Now
On Credit One Bank's Website

Up to 10X Reward Rate

Earn 10X points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel site; earn 5X pointsRead More

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

29.49%* Variable

Credit Score

Fair/Good (650 - 699)

Our Expert Take

The Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards could be the best option for those with fair credit who have significant spending and are looking for rewards on travel (especially hotels and car rentals), dining and gas.

Why We Like It

The Wander Card’s rewards rate on purchases through the travel portal is among the best available, and the bonus rate is strong across a wide swath of purchase categories.

The Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards offers free access to your credit score, giving you insights to improve.

What We Don’t Like

The card charges an annual fee while offering minimal perks in return. Cards charging similar annual fees typically offer travel insurance and other benefits. This fee offsets much of the reward potential. This card also doesn’t offer a welcome bonus boosting rewards for the first year.

Points are redeemable for 1 cent each, with few options that might enable you to maximize your rewards.

Who It’s Best For

This is a great travel-focused rewards card, but the $95 annual fee likely offsets the rewards unless you have significant spending in the bonus categories.

Expert Commentary
Albert Hsieh
Albert Hsieh
Albert Hsieh
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.
 
Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.
 
With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.
 
His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.
Albert Hsieh
Albert Hsieh
Albert Hsieh
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.
 
Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.
 
With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.
 
His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

The Credit One Bank Wander Card offers lucrative points-earning opportunities within key travel categories, however, its extra perks and benefits fall short when compared to other premium credit cards.

Pros & Cons
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • High reward potential
  • Issuer advertises requiring an average minimum credit rating
  • $95 annual fee
  • No low introductory APR period
  • High 29.49%* Variable APR
Card Details
  • 5X points on eligible dining, gas, and travel purchases
  • 1X points on all other purchases
  • 10X points on eligible hotel and car rentals booked using the Credit One Bank travel partner
  • Rent a car at Avis, Hertz, or SIXT and receive exclusive Amex Card member discounts, complimentary upgrades, and more*
  • No Foreign Transaction Fee
  • There’s no limit to the number of points earned
  • Points may be redeemed for statement credit, gift cards, travel, and more
  • If you are a Covered Borrower under the Military Lending Act, you may get a different offer
  • Terms Apply*
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Unsecured Flat-Rate Rewards Card from Capital One

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Apply Now Apply Now
On Capital One's Website
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Click Here To Apply Now
Rates & Fees 
3.9
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Apply Now Apply Now
On Capital One's Website

Up to 5% Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day. Plus, earn 5% cash back on hotels and rental carsRead More

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Annual Fee

$39

Regular APR

29.74% (Variable)

Credit Score

Average, Fair, Limited

Our Expert Take

The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a solid pick for those with fair credit looking to improve their scores and earn cash-back rewards in the process, without putting down a deposit.

Why We Like It

The QuicksilverOne offers a competitive rewards rate, and the card does not charge foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

Capital One automatically considers cardholders for an increase to their credit line in as little as six months. If you continue to maintain a low balance and pay your bill each month, this can improve your credit utilization and your score.

What We Don’t Like

The QuicksilverOne charges an annual fee and offers few benefits to justify itself, and the card does not offer a welcome bonus like others on this list.

If you find yourself needing to carry a balance at any point, the 29.74% (Variable) APR is high.

Who It’s Best For

This card is best for those traveling abroad or who plan to shop from international merchants to avoid foreign transaction fees.

Pros & Cons
  • Unlimited 1.5% cash-back rewards
  • Fair-to-average credit applicants considered
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Rewards don’t expire for the life of the account
  • High APR
  • No boosted rate in common spending categories
  • No welcome offer
  • No intro APR offer
Card Details
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
  • No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and cash back doesn’t expire for the life of the account. It’s that simple
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card use
  • Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
  • Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It’s free for everyone
  • Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you’re all set
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Secured Card Rewards

U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card *

U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card
3.6
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 4X Reward Rate

Earn 4 points per dollar on dining, takeout and restaurant delivery, 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, gas andRead More

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

29.24% variable

Credit Score

Fair/Good (650 - 699)

Our Expert Take

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card* earns bonus rewards that are normally only available to those with better credit scores. However, for the tradeoff, it requires a security deposit.

Why We Like It

The Altitude Go Secured Visa earns solid rewards, especially for a secured card. The card comes with some additional perks, like an annual $15 credit for certain streaming services. It also does not charge an annual fee.

What We Don’t Like

This is a secured card, so you must put up a deposit of at least $300 that functions as your credit limit. Like many secured cards, there is no welcome bonus. But keep in mind that your security deposit is fully refundable, so if you have the funds, it may be a better long-term choice than paying an annual fee.

Who It’s Best For

If you have the savings required to fund this card’s security deposit, this can be a very rewarding card while you build your score.

Pros & Cons
  • Reports to all three major credit bureaus
  • No annual fee
  • Comes with a $15 annual streaming credit after 11 months of eligible streaming services payments
  • Minimum deposit of $300 is required
  • Non-bonus categories earn so-so rewards
  • Other secured cards may offer rewards that better align with your spending
Card Details
  • Earn 4 points per dollar spent on dining and takeout
  • Earn 2 points at grocery stores, gas stations and on streaming services and 1 point on all other eligible purchases
  • Earn a $15 streaming credit for annual streaming service purchases like Netflix and Spotify
  • No annual fee
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Methodology

To find the best credit cards for people with fair credit, we evaluated options from major issuers, focusing on those most likely to approve applicants with past credit challenges. These cards typically offer fewer rewards and benefits but provide accessibility for those rebuilding credit. We then applied weighted scores to key features to determine the best overall options.

  • Rewards earning: 35%
  • Regular APR: 15%
  • 0% intro APR offers: 15%
  • Welcome bonus: 10%
  • Annual fee and other fees: 10%
  • Additional benefits: 15%

To learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process, check out our guide on how Forbes Advisor rates credit cards.

What Is a Fair Credit Score?

According to Experian, fair credit is typically defined as a FICO Score between 580 and 669. You could have fair credit because you have very little information in your credit history or because you’ve had some credit problems in the past. This makes it difficult for you to qualify for most competitive credit cards, but options do exist—especially if you’re a student.

Credit score requirements vary among lenders, and you typically won’t be told what a particular lender’s cutoff point is between a good credit score and a not-so-good one. Lenders will evaluate your entire credit history, as well as income, employment and other factors when deciding whether or not to approve you for a card.

Pro Tip
Fair credit isn’t something you’re stuck with forever. If you make your payments on time and aim to lower your balances or revolve as little debt as possible, it can go a long way toward building up a stronger profile.

Why Higher Credit Scores Are Better

Lenders use credit scores to help decide whether to approve a new loan or credit application and to help determine the interest rate charged on the loan or lines of credit. Higher credit scores signal that you are a responsible borrower and can be trusted to repay your debts, so they can result in higher credit limits, more card application approvals and more favorable lending terms. Better credit scores can also save you money on insurance, security deposits for rent or utilities.

How To Choose Credit Cards for Fair Credit

If you have fair credit, you won’t have as many credit card options available, but rewarding options do exist. Making responsible financial choices, like paying your bill on time each month and keeping your credit utilization low, should be a high priority—your goal might not be simply to get a credit card, but to build and strengthen your credit so you can rise from fair to good or even excellent credit.

If you’re confident you can make solid financial choices, you should ask yourself a few questions:

What kind of purchases do I make most often?

Would I prefer to earn cash back or another type of reward, like points or miles?

Would I rather have a card that earns a flat rate of rewards on every purchase or one with categories to track?

Are there any additional benefits that matter to me?

How To Get a Credit Card With Fair Credit

Those with fair credit history do have limitations for credit card options. It likely won’t see sky-high rewards, a big welcome bonus or other lucrative perks you might see advertised on other cards.

However, you can improve your likelihood of being approved by selecting a card that aligns with your credit rating and fully completing the application. You’re also more likely (although it’s not a guarantee) to be approved for a card if you’ve received preapproval. Many issuers, including Capital One, Citibank, Credit One and Discover will let you check to see if you’re preapproved or prequalified for their cards.

Find The Best Credit Cards For 2025

No single credit card is the best option for every family, every purchase or every budget. We've picked the best credit cards in a way designed to be the most helpful to the widest variety of readers.

Learn More

How To Prequalify for Credit Cards With Fair Credit

The best way to prequalify for credit cards with fair credit is to use an online credit card prequalification tool. Many credit card issuers provide these tools on their websites. You enter basic personal information to see if you prequalify for their credit cards. Note that prequalifying does not guarantee approval, but it can give you a good indication of which credit cards you are likely to be approved for without the penalty of hard inquiries on your credit report.

Ask an expert

What Are the Top Features To Look for in a Card for Fair Credit?

Robin Frankel

Robin Frankel

Credit Cards Writer

Toni Perkins-Southam

Toni Perkins-Southam

Credit Cards Lead Editor

Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.

Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.

Credit Card Expert

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The most important attribute in a card designed for fair credit is if it reports to all three credit bureaus. Fair credit should be a stop in your credit-building journey, and you can’t improve your credit if your good payment behavior isn’t being reported.

Robin Frankel
Robin Frankel

Credit Cards Writer

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When looking for a card for fair credit, I focus on features that make it easier to build credit without high fees, like a reasonable APR and no annual fee, if possible. Rewards and credit limit increases are also important perks that can motivate me to manage my card responsibly and improve my credit score.

Toni Perkins-Southam
Toni Perkins-Southam

Credit Cards Lead Editor

 

Costs involved in using the credit card are important. Someone with fair credit is likely to have funding challenges. A credit card that doesn’t overburden users with high costs in terms of annual fees, late payment fees and fees on cash advances and balance transfers would be the top choice.

Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.
Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.

Credit Card Expert

Things To Avoid With Credit Cards for Fair Credit

  • Making late payments. Late payments can result in costly fees and interest, as well as have a major negative impact on your credit.
  • Carrying a balance. Paying interest on your credit card balance can quickly add up, so it’s important to pay off your balance in full each month.
  • Overspending. Don’t max out your credit card limit, as doing so can hurt your credit score by increasing your credit utilization rate. Additionally, high balances can make default more likely if you lose a job or have changes in income.
  • Spending more than you can afford. Credit cards can be a helpful way to build credit, but only if you use them responsibly. Make sure you only charge what you can afford to pay back.
  • Applying for too many cards. Too many credit card applications can also have a negative effect on your credit score.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are there credit cards for fair or average credit with instant approval?

Some cards offer the ability to prequalify for those with fair or average credit, but since there’s no one “right” score you need to receive approval, there’s never a guarantee.

Even if you’re approved right away, you may not be able to use the card number immediately. In many cases, you’ll have to wait until your physical card arrives in the mail, which typically takes five to seven business days.

What credit card should I apply for with fair credit?

If your credit is fair, there are several decent credit cards to consider, including the ones listed here. No one card will be the easiest to receive approval for with fair credit because approval for a card is based on various factors—your credit score is only one of them. Likewise, there’s no best card because what’s right for you may not be the right choice for someone else.

A credit score that might help you qualify for the best terms available from one card issuer might not be high enough to receive the same treatment from another bank. A potential lender will also consider your income and the monthly expenses you indicate on your application.

How long does it take to build good credit?

Whether you’re starting from scratch or working to improve a damaged score, achieving good credit takes time. There are a few things you can do to improve your credit over a period of a few months—consistently paying your bills on time, lowering your credit utilization or taking advantage of tools like Experian Boost or American Express’ Score Goals that can offer actionable insights on how to increase your score.

In general, someone building credit for the first time can expect to see an improvement in their FICO score in about six months after opening an account and making on-time payments.  It may take several months or even several years to demonstrate improved responsible payment behavior. Late payments remain on your credit report for seven years, but likely have reduced impact as time passes.

Length of credit history is also a factor that can’t be tweaked. There’s not a specific amount of time it takes to achieve any level of credit, but with consistently good payment behavior and mindful credit use, a good credit score can be achieved.

What can you do with fair credit?

With fair credit, you can usually receive approval for credit cards and personal loans, although you may have to pay higher interest rates than people with better credit scores. You may also be able to qualify for a car loan, though you may have to make a larger down payment and be subject to higher interest rates. Other options include taking out a secured loan, such as a secured credit card or seeking out lenders that specialize in working with people with fair credit. Note that many of your options will likely involve less favorable terms.

Can you get a business credit card with fair credit?

Yes, it is possible to get a business credit card with fair credit. However, you may have difficulty qualifying for a traditional business credit card, and you may need to consider a secured business credit card instead. Secured business credit cards require a refundable security deposit, which helps reduce the risk for the lender.

Next Up In Credit Cards

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: bp rewards Visa®, U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

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Becky Pokora
Becky Pokora
Credit Card Rewards Expert

With more than 50 million redeemed miles under her belt, Becky Pokora is a rewards travel expert. She's been writing about credit cards and reward travel since 2011 with articles on Forbes Advisor, BoardingArea, The Points Guy and more. Her redemptions have helped her travel to more than 50 countries and all seven continents.

Robin Saks Frankel
Robin Saks Frankel
Senior Staff Writer

Robin has worked as a credit cards, editor and spokesperson for over a decade. Prior to Forbes Advisor, she also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including USA TODAY, NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She holds an M.S. in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University, a Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing and is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®).

Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.
Demissew Diro Ejara, Ph.D.
Credit Card and Personal Finance Expert

Demissew Ejara currently teaches finance and conducts research at the University of New Haven. He has more than twenty-five years of teaching experience across several institutions. He has taught courses in financial market and institutions, corporate finance, international finance, investments, finance theory and modeling and personal finance.
 
He conducts research on different topics in finance. His research papers are published in several journals including Journal of Banking and Finance, Journal of Corporate Finance, the Financial Review, and Journal of Multinational Financial Management. He won best paper awards at the Financial Management Association conference (1998) and the Eastern Finance Association conference (2007).
 
Demissew Ejara makes frequent contributions to the media. His comments on credit cards, insurance, and other personal finance topics appear in online media such as Wallet Hub and Money Geek. He also makes frequent contributions to the print and TV and radio media on the financial markets, the economy and personal finances.

The Forbes Advisor editorial team is independent and objective. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive compensation from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Advisor site. This compensation comes from two main sources. First, we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. The compensation we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers’ offers appear on the site. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market. Second, we also include links to advertisers’ offers in some of our articles; these “affiliate links” may generate income for our site when you click on them. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Advisor. While we work hard to provide accurate and up to date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Advisor does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof. Here is a list of our partners who offer products that we have affiliate links for.
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