If you’re looking to build credit fast, secured credit cards are one of the smartest ways to start. They’re easier to qualify for, require a refundable security deposit, and report to major credit bureaus, helping you establish or rebuild your credit score with responsible use. Below are the top 10 secured credit cards to build credit fast in 2026, each designed to help you grow your credit profile efficiently.
1. Discover it® Secured Credit Card
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is one of the best secured credit cards for building credit fast because it combines credit-building tools with real rewards. You’ll earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to quarterly limits) and 1% on other purchases. Discover reviews accounts starting at seven months for possible graduation to an unsecured card. There’s no annual fee, and your activity is reported to all three major credit bureaus. With responsible use and on-time payments, this card helps boost your credit score while earning rewards, something many secured cards don’t offer.
2. Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
The Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card stands out for its flexible security deposit requirements. Depending on eligibility, you may qualify for a lower refundable deposit while still receiving a higher credit limit. There’s no annual fee, and Capital One automatically considers you for a higher credit line in as little as six months without requiring an additional deposit. It reports to all three credit bureaus, helping you establish a payment history quickly. If your goal is fast credit improvement with minimal upfront cost, this card is a strong, beginner-friendly option.
3. Citi® Secured Mastercard®
The Citi® Secured Mastercard® is a simple, no-frills option focused purely on credit building. You’ll provide a refundable security deposit that becomes your credit limit, making it easier to control spending. Citi reports your payment history to all major credit bureaus, which is essential for building credit fast. There’s no rewards program, but the straightforward structure can help you stay disciplined. After consistent on-time payments, you may qualify for an upgrade to an unsecured Citi card. If you want a traditional, reliable secured credit card, this is a solid choice.
4. OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
The OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card is ideal if you have poor credit or no credit history and want approval without a credit check. That makes it one of the most accessible secured cards available. You’ll need a refundable security deposit, and there is an annual fee, but it reports to all three major credit bureaus. With consistent, on-time payments and low credit utilization, you can build credit steadily. If you’ve struggled to qualify elsewhere, OpenSky provides a realistic path to rebuilding your credit profile.
5. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card lets you earn rewards while building credit. You can choose a 3% cash back category, plus earn 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to quarterly caps). There’s no annual fee, and your activity is reported to all major credit bureaus. After responsible use, you may transition to an unsecured version. If you want both flexibility and strong credit-building potential, this secured card balances rewards and credit growth effectively.
6. Self Visa® Credit Card
The Self Visa® Credit Card works differently from traditional secured cards. You first open a credit builder account, make monthly payments, and then use your savings as the security deposit for the card. This dual approach helps build installment and revolving credit simultaneously. It reports to all three credit bureaus, strengthening your credit mix. There is an annual fee, but the structured savings plan can encourage responsible habits. If you want a disciplined system to build credit fast, Self offers a unique and effective strategy.
7. U.S. Bank Secured Visa® Card
The U.S. Bank Secured Visa® Card is a dependable option for building credit with predictable terms. Your refundable security deposit sets your credit limit, and payments are reported to major credit bureaus. While it doesn’t offer rewards, it provides free access to your credit score so you can track progress. There is an annual fee, but U.S. Bank periodically reviews accounts for graduation eligibility. If you want a straightforward card from a well-known bank to help improve your credit score steadily, this one delivers.
8. Merrick Bank Secured Visa® Card
The Merrick Bank Secured Visa® Card allows a wide range of deposit amounts, giving you flexibility to choose a higher credit limit if needed. It reports to all three major credit bureaus, helping you establish a payment history and improve your utilization ratio. While it carries an annual fee, it can be easier to qualify for than some major-bank options. For individuals rebuilding credit after setbacks, this card provides a manageable way to regain financial footing and work toward unsecured credit opportunities.
9. First Progress Platinum Prestige Mastercard® Secured Credit Card
The First Progress Platinum Prestige Mastercard® Secured Credit Card offers competitive interest rates compared to many secured cards, making it appealing if you occasionally carry a balance. It requires a refundable security deposit and reports to all three credit bureaus. While it has an annual fee, it does not require a minimum credit score for approval. If your main goal is rebuilding credit fast through consistent payments and controlled usage, this card provides accessible terms and strong reporting support.
10. DCU Visa® Platinum Secured Credit Card
The DCU Visa® Platinum Secured Credit Card, offered by Digital Federal Credit Union, features a low APR compared to many competitors. Your deposit determines your credit limit, and the card reports to major credit bureaus to help build credit fast. DCU membership is required, but eligibility is broad. If you value lower interest costs and credit union benefits while rebuilding your credit score, this secured card offers an affordable and practical path toward financial recovery.
How to Build Credit Fast with a Secured Credit Card
To build credit fast, follow three simple rules: pay on time every month, keep your credit utilization below 30% (ideally under 10%), and avoid unnecessary applications for new credit. Most secured credit cards report to all three major credit bureaus, so consistent responsible use can start improving your score within a few months. Used correctly, a secured credit card isn’t just a temporary tool; it’s your first step toward stronger credit, better loan approvals, and premium unsecured credit cards in the future.