How to Get a credit card with bad credit

Poor credit cards for low credit scores.

Learn how to control your spending once getting a credit card. Even if you have horrible credit, you may be able to get a credit card in your name.

Things You'll Need

• Be atleast 18 years old

Instructions

1. View your credit report for free online. Make sure there are no false reports on your credit history.

2. Browse the web for low credit score credit cards applications. Apply for a credit card. Make sure you are applying with a company you are famaliar with. Be prepared to pay a high interest rate if your credit is below average. For example if you have a credit score of 590, you might be paying %20 interest on a card, along with a possible upfront deposit.

3. If you have served in the armed forces, try applying for cards at banks with special programs for this. You are more likely to find a good deal if you have been in the army or another service. Read your terms very carefully so you know what to expect.

4. After applying and getting approved for a credit card, don't rush to spend it. Having a card and not maxing it out can actually help your credit. Most companies like to see consumers have at least %75 of the credit allowed to them open.

5. Pay every bill on time, or ahead of time if there is no penalty for early payment.

6. Keep the card atleast 6 months before even applying for more credit. Sometimes applying for credit many times in a row can take 2 points off your credit score. Having two points removed from a credit score doesn't sound like much but it can add up if you apply a lot.

7. Don't worry about frequent flyer points or other rewards if you don't fly very often. These are usually worthless. Do not let incentives like this convince you to put more purchases on your card. It is always better to pay cash up front if you can.

8. 

   Try spending your card only on emergencys, so that you will have some credit available if something important comes up. If you plan to use your card for car repairs you can find special cards for this that will allow you credit with local mechanics.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't spend your card for daily purchases.

• Remember to pay every bill on time or you could be charged very steep late fees.

• Don't give your SSN to a company you've never heard of. All major credit card companies are pretty much well known.

Resources

• Federal Reserve info on credit safety.