1 of 12

Write now Article Tools

Secured Credit Cards Can Be Good

If you are unable to get a normal credit card because of poor credit, all hope is not lost. A secured credit card is different in that it utilizes funds a consumer has placed in a savings account. The secured card is protected by the savings account. Therefore the consumer is "borrowing" from his or her own account. In this way the consumer can re-establish their credit repayment history thereby exhibiting improved credit worthiness. Some secured cards even come with a conversion feature allowing an upgrade to an unsecured credit card after a successful repayment history of a pre-determined length of time.

Credit cards in general can be exceptionally beneficial to the consumer. Secured credit cards provide all the same benefits. But additionally a secured credit card offers the consumer with less than good credit an opportunity to build credit history, which is 35% of a consumers credit score.

You can obtain a list of financial institutions offering secured credit cards by sending a $4 check or money order to:
Secured Credit Card List BHA Customer Service
524 Branch Drive
Salem, VA 24153

There is also a free list on line from Bankrate.com or you can find a list of financial institutions offering secured credit cards using your favorite search engine by simply searching for the key words "secured credit card". Be aware that different companies offer different terms, with fees and rates varying widely. Obviously some companies are better than others. Some just want to charge you fees while others provide a fair service. (See below for potential problems with some companies.)

My best recommendation is to check with larger banks and especially credit unions locally and ask if they offer a secured credit card program. You might also ask them if they report to all 3 credit bureaus and how often they report since one of your main concerns is rebuilding credit. Also check to see if they offer a conversion to an unsecured card and after what period of time.

Secured Credit Cards Can Be Bad

Many years ago I wrote an article saying that credit and credit cards are the agony and ecstasy of life. I have not changed my opinion. Like all credit cards, a secured credit card can make the impossible possible. But it can also drive the unsuspecting consumer into the ground or even worse Bankruptcy Court. Fortunately a secured credit card will not permit you to spend more than your savings amount. However, should you fail to make on-time payments, you may

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about The truth about secured credit cards?
We want to hear your view. Write now!