Debt & Credit

Secured Credit Cards: Building Credit the Right Way

By Consumer Financial Protection Bureau | 6 min read

Secured Credit Cards: Building Credit the Right Way

Build credit responsibly with secured credit cards. CFPB guidance on choosing and using secured cards effectively.

The CFPB recommends secured credit cards for building credit history. Secured cards require a cash deposit that becomes your credit limit. Benefits: Easier approval for poor or no credit, Reports to credit bureaus like regular cards, Deposits are refundable when account closes. Choose cards with: Low fees, graduation to unsecured cards, Credit reporting to all three bureaus. Use responsibly by keeping balances low and paying on time.\n\n**Related Resources**\n- [Financial Planning Tools](/tools)\n- [Budget Calculator](/budget-planner)\n- [Credit Guide](/category/Debt%20%26%20Credit)\n- [Money Saving Tips](/category/Save%20Money)