Easiest Credit Cards to Get Approved For in 2024

Our top picks for the easiest cards to get can help you access a credit line and boost your credit score. The easiest credit cards to get, especially with bad credit or no credit, are secured credit cards.

Secured cards like the Discover it Secured Credit Card use a security deposit instead of a hard credit inquiry for approval, making them easier to get if your credit is subpar. Other cards, like the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card, are open to people with no credit history and may be easier to qualify for than cards with specific credit requirements.

Not all credit cards are created equal. Each card offers its own set of unique benefits, rewards and perks and, with that, its own set of requirements for approval. Some credit cards, like secured credit cards, are easier to get approved for, while others require meeting more stringent credit requirements and other criteria.

If you have poor credit or no credit, a secured credit card allows you to build credit and, in some cases, still earn rewards. Your creditworthiness is based on a FICO score. Your FICO credit score is important to know because this helps lenders decide what you can qualify for and which credit cards you can get.

Getting approved for a credit card when you have no credit history is a challenge. Most card issuers rely on credit scores and history to determine whether applicants are worth the risk. Luckily, there are still some quality credit cards specifically geared toward individuals with little to no credit history. These cards serve as credit-building tools to help you eventually qualify for other credit cards and financing opportunities.

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Past credit mistakes won't keep you from getting a card even if your score is poor (FICO score of 300 - 579), but they will shorten the list of cards available. Your best options may be secured credit cards which rely on a security deposit instead of a credit check. Although, you may still qualify for an unsecured card depending on your credit score and other factors.

>>MORE: Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit

As your credit score increases, so too do your options. Here are some cards that have slightly higher credit score expectations but are still fairly accessible to those with less-than-stellar credit.

Business credit cards can help you earn valuable rewards for business expenses and extend your spending power. They are also a great tool for establishing business credit. Some card issuers offer business credit cards geared toward individuals whose credit isn't up to par.

Getting approved for a credit card can happen instantly, although some card issuers can take up to a week or longer to make a determination. Check with the card issuer to see how long it might take to get approved for a credit card.

>>MORE: How Long Does It Take to Get a Credit Card?

You can sometimes qualify for instant approval for a credit card. This usually requires you to have good to excellent credit and provide enough information for the card issuer to determine quickly.

Apple Card - Credit needed: Good (FICO score of 670 -739)
Apple lets you apply and find out in a few minutes whether you're approved for the Apple Card without affecting your credit score. A hard inquiry is only performed if you accept a pre-qualifying offer. There are multiple ways to earn cash back, and you can track it easily with an iPhone. The card carries no annual fee.

Discover it® Secured Credit Card - Credit needed: No score required
The Discover it Secured card offers instant pre-qualification without hurting your credit score. The no-fee secured card earns 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to the first $1,000 combined purchases quarterly. It also earns unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases and features an automatic cash back match on all cash back earned your first year.

Total Card Visa - Credit needed: None–Fair (FICO score of 0 - 669)
The Total Card Visa is issued by the Bank of Missouri. It requires an active checking account and an $89 program fee. You can get approved for the Total card within seconds of filling out an online application. The card also comes with free TransUnion credit monitoring.

No matter your credit score, there are steps you can take to get approved for a credit card more quickly. Follow our tips below to speed up the credit card approval process the next time you apply.

Knowing which cards are the easiest to get can be a huge benefit if you're considering applying for a credit card. You still have options even if you have poor credit or no credit history. A peek at the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions will help you understand those options and which steps to take next.