The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired.


  • Citi® Secured Mastercard®

    Good for building credit with no or limited credit history


    • 27.74% VariableAPR
    • $200Min. Security Deposit
    • $0Annual Fee
    • None–LimitedRecommended Credit

The Citi® Secured Mastercard® is a good choice for those with limited or no credit history who are not eligible for a traditional credit card. You can utilize this card to build your credit and eventually transition to an unsecured credit card with better rewards and perks.

Citi® Secured Mastercard® Overview

The Citi® Secured Mastercard® offers a chance for a relatively high credit limit with no annual fee. While it doesn't offer rewards or a welcome bonus, this card provides an opportunity to focus on building your credit and upgrade to an unsecured card after 18 months of on-time payments.

  • Regular APR: 27.49% variable
  • Deposit required: $200 - $2,500
  • Potential credit limit: $200 - $2,500 (equal to deposit)
  • Annual fee: $0
  • Rewards rate: None

Important Card Details

This card is designed to help you build a healthy credit score, so it does not offer any rewards or cash back benefits. What it does offer is flexibility in choosing your credit limit (based on your deposit) and no annual fee. Still, you must take note of the other potential charges that accompany this card.

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    High Regular APR

    The APR offered by the Citi® Secured Mastercard® is 27.49% variable, which is decent for a secured card, although rather high compared to the average for unsecured credit cards. While focusing on building credit, you should avoid carrying a balance whenever possible and pay your bill on time and in full each month to avoid accruing interest.

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    Flexible Security Deposit

    After getting approved for this card, the minimum security deposit payable upfront is $200, which is high when compared to other cards in the market. That said, the Citi® Secured Mastercard® also has a relatively high maximum security deposit of $2,500. Your deposit will be equal to your credit limit, so if you have the cash to provide a higher deposit you may be able to accelerate your credit-building efforts. However, if you're looking for a minimal deposit commitment, you may be better off with another card.

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    Late Payment Costs

    If you miss making a payment by the due date, you will not only pay a late fee of up to $41, but may also be subject to a higher penalty APR of up to 29.99% for an indefinite time period.

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    Upgrade Potential

    Demonstrating consistently responsible use of your secured card with Citi over time could lead to an automatic upgrade to an unsecured credit card in as little as 18 months.

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    Reporting to Credit Bureaus

    Citi will report your credit activity to the three major credit bureaus, an essential feature as you work to build up your credit score with a secured credit card. You'll also get free access to your FICO score so you can track you progress.

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    No Annual Fee

    Unlike many secured credit cards, the Citi® Secured Mastercard® does not charge an annual fee. This means that if you pay your balance on time and in full each month to avoid interest charges and late payment fees, there's no additional cost to hold this card beyond the security deposit.

How the Citi® Secured Mastercard® Compares

While the Citi® Secured Mastercard® is a good choice for those who wish to start building their credit, there may be better options for you, particularly if you're looking for a lower minimum security deposit or the chance to earn rewards while you build your credit.

How This Card Compares

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Citi® Secured Mastercard®

  • Regular APR: 27.49% variable
  • Deposit required: $200 - $2,500
  • Potential credit limit: $200 - $2,500 (equal to deposit)
  • Annual fee: $0
  • Rewards rate: None
  • Best for: building credit with flexible security deposit
creditCard1 icon

Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card

  • Regular APR: 30.49% variable
  • Deposit required: $49 - $200 (depending on credit)
  • Potential credit limit: $200 - $1,000 (depending on deposit)
  • Annual fee: $0
  • Rewards rate: None
  • Best for: generous credit limit
*Rates, fees or bonuses may vary or include specific stipulations. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting/last updated date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. We recommend visiting the card issuer’s website for the most up-to-date information available.
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