Picture this: you’re staring at your credit report, and that three-digit number—560—feels like a roadblock to every financial goal you’ve set. Maybe you’re thinking, “Can I even get a credit card with this score?” Here’s the good news that’ll make you sit up straight: Yes, you absolutely can get a credit card with a 560 credit score.
While a 560 FICO score puts you in the “poor” credit category, it’s not the end of your financial story—it’s just the beginning of your comeback. With over 16% of Americans having credit scores below 580, you’re not alone in this journey. Let’s dive into exactly how you can turn that 560 into your launching pad for better credit.
Understanding Your 560 Credit Score: The Real Talk
A 560 credit score lands you squarely in what FICO calls “poor” credit territory (anything below 580). But here’s what that means in dollars and cents:
- Traditional credit cards? Most will pass on you
- Interest rates? Expect them to be sky-high (often 25%+)
- Credit limits? Think small—usually $200-$500 to start
- Approval odds? Low for mainstream cards, but decent for specialized options
But don’t let these numbers discourage you. One of the best credit cards you can get with a 560 credit score is the OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card. This card won’t check your credit when you apply, so you can have high approval odds even with damaged credit.
Your Credit Card Options with a 560 Score
Secured Credit Cards: Your Golden Ticket
How they work: You put down a refundable security deposit (typically $200-$500), which becomes your credit limit. Think of it as putting your own money on the table to prove you’re serious.
Why they’re perfect for 560 scores: Secured credit cards are the most common choice, as they require a refundable security deposit that acts as your credit limit. For example, if you put down $500, your credit limit will also be $500.
The rebuilding magic: Most secured cards report to all three credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Every on-time payment becomes a building block for your credit recovery.
Top secured card picks for 560 scores:
Card Name | Annual Fee | Minimum Deposit | Credit Check Required |
OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® | $0 | $200 | No |
Discover it® Secured | $0 | $200 | Yes (soft pull) |
Capital One Platinum Secured | $0 | $49-$200 | Yes |
Subprime Unsecured Credit Cards: The No-Deposit Route
If you can’t swing a security deposit, subprime unsecured cards might be your play. These don’t require upfront cash, but they come with a catch—steep fees and astronomical interest rates.
What to expect:
- APRs range from 24% to 30%+
- Annual fees between $49-$175
- Monthly maintenance fees ($5-$15)
- Low credit limits ($300-$500)
Popular options include:
- Destiny Mastercard
- Fortiva Mastercard
- Credit One Bank cards
Store Credit Cards: The Retail Route
Some retail chains offer store-branded cards with more lenient approval standards. While these typically carry high interest rates, they can be easier to qualify for with a 560 score.
Authorized User Strategy: The Friendship Hack
Here’s a clever move: ask a trusted friend or family member with excellent credit to add you as an authorized user on their account. The best type of credit card for a 560 credit score is a secured credit card. Secured cards give people with bad credit high approval odds and have low fees because cardholders are required to place a refundable security deposit.
How Long Will It Take to Rebuild Your Credit?
With consistent, responsible use of your new credit card, you can expect to see improvements in 6-12 months. Here’s the timeline:
- 3 months: Minor score bumps as positive payment history begins reporting
- 6 months: Noticeable improvements if you maintain low utilization and perfect payments
- 12 months: Could reach the “fair” credit range (620-650) with disciplined habits
Remember, avoiding debt altogether while rebuilding is crucial to your success.
Smart Strategies for Credit Card Success with a 560 Score
The 30% Rule (Actually, Make It 10%)
Keep your credit utilization below 30% of your limit—but if you want to accelerate your score improvement, aim for under 10%. On a $500 limit, that means keeping your balance below $50.
Payment Timing Matters
Don’t just pay on time—pay before your statement closes. This strategy can help keep your reported utilization lower, which benefits your score faster.
Consider Multiple Payment Approaches
Some people find success with the paycheck budget method, allocating specific portions of each paycheck to credit card payments.
What Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
The Multiple Application Trap
Don’t apply for several cards at once. Each hard inquiry can knock 5-10 points off your already vulnerable 560 score. Instead, research thoroughly and apply for one card at a time.
Maxing Out Your Limit
Using your entire credit limit signals desperation to lenders and can lower your score further. Treat your credit limit like a ceiling you never want to touch.
Focusing Only on the Minimum Payment
While making minimum payments keeps you current, it won’t help you build wealth or improve your credit as quickly. Consider strategies for paying off debt more aggressively when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of credit cards are available if my score is 560?
Your main options include secured credit cards (requiring a deposit), subprime unsecured cards (high fees, no deposit), and some store-branded cards. These cards have lower approval standards, making acceptance more likely. Focus on secured credit cards, like the OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card, which doesn’t check credit when you apply.
How soon can I rebuild my credit if I get a secured card at 560?
With consistent on-time payments and low utilization, you could see improvements within 3-6 months, with significant progress possible within 12 months. The key is maintaining a perfect payment history and keeping balances low.
Do secured cards always require a minimum deposit?
Most major issuers require at least $200, though some credit unions offer secured cards with deposits as low as $100. The Capital One Platinum Secured starts at just $49 for a $200 credit limit.
What interest rate can I expect with a 560 score?
Expect APRs between 24-30% for most cards available to you. This is why paying your balance in full each month is crucial—carrying a balance at these rates can quickly become expensive.
Should I consider a cosigner to get better terms?
If you have a trusted family member or friend with excellent credit willing to cosign, you could potentially qualify for better terms. However, remember that missed payments will affect both your credit and theirs.
Building Your Financial Foundation Beyond Credit Cards
While getting a credit card is important for rebuilding credit, don’t forget about your overall financial health. Consider:
- Building an emergency fund to avoid relying on credit for unexpected expenses
- Exploring creative money-saving tips to free up cash for debt payments
- Learning about high-yield savings accounts to maximize your savings growth
The Bottom Line: Your 560 Score Is Your Starting Point, Not Your Destination
A 560 credit score might feel like a financial scarlet letter, but it’s actually your baseline for building something better. With the right secured credit card, disciplined spending habits, and consistent payments, you can transform that 560 into a score that opens doors instead of closing them.
The journey from poor credit to good credit isn’t just about numbers—it’s about developing the financial habits that will serve you for life. Whether you choose a secured card with no credit check like the OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® or decide to tackle the fees of an unsecured subprime card, the most important step is taking action.
Your credit score doesn’t define your worth, but rebuilding it will definitely redefine your options. Start today, stay consistent, and watch as that 560 becomes a distant memory of where you started, not where you’re staying.
Ready to Take Action?
Don’t let another month pass with a 560 credit score holding you back. Research the secured card options mentioned above, check your credit report for accuracy, and take the first step toward financial recovery. Your future self will thank you for starting today.
What’s your biggest concern about applying for a credit card with a 560 score? Share your questions in the comments below—we’re here to help you navigate this journey to better credit. Want to Explore More Visit Our Website Today.
