Prequalify (Pre-Qualify) for a Credit Card with Bad Credit: A Guide to Your Options
It is possible to get prequalified for a credit card with bad credit, and it is a wise first step in applying for a new card. The prequalification process allows you to check your odds of approval without a hard credit check, which would temporarily lower your credit score.
Below are credit cards that offer prequalification tools so you can check your approval odds before applying.
How Prequalification Works
For consumers with bad credit, prequalification is a helpful, no-risk tool for finding credit cards you are likely to be approved for and avoiding unnecessary damage to your credit score.
- Submit your information: You can initiate prequalification through a credit card issuer's website, which typically requires providing personal information like your name, address, birthday, Social Security number, and income.
- A soft credit pull occurs: The issuer performs a "soft inquiry" or "soft pull" on your credit report to check your basic credit information. Unlike a "hard inquiry" from a formal application, this does not affect your credit score and isn't visible to other lenders.
- Get a decision: Based on the soft pull, the issuer will present you with offers for cards you are likely to be approved for, and may show you the potential rates and terms.
- No guarantee of approval: Prequalification is not a guarantee of final approval. If you proceed with a formal application, the issuer will then perform a hard inquiry. While a prequalification means you have a high chance of approval, it is still possible to be denied.
How to Use Bad Credit Credit Cards Responsibly
Most bad credit credit cards come with sky-high APRs, annual fees, and monthly maintenance charges — but here’s what most people don’t realize: interest charges can often be avoided when balances are paid in full each billing cycle. If you follow a simple plan and use these cards responsibly, you can avoid paying interest, rebuild your credit, and be ready to move on to better options within 12 months. The article below shows you exactly how to do it.
Why Prequalification Is Important for Bad Credit
Applying for multiple credit cards and being denied can significantly damage your credit score. Prequalifying helps you avoid this risk.
- Avoids credit score impact: Each formal credit card application results in a hard inquiry, which can lower your credit score by a few points. Multiple hard inquiries in a short period can be a red flag to lenders. Prequalification shields you from this risk.
- Targets your search: Prequalification lets you narrow down options to cards that are the right fit for your credit profile, saving you time and effort.
- Builds confidence: By receiving an offer, you can move forward with a formal application with a clearer expectation of approval likelihood.
Types of Cards to Prequalify for with Bad Credit
Unsecured Credit Cards for Bad Credit
Some unsecured cards offer prequalification for applicants with less-than-perfect credit. They are riskier for the issuer and may come with higher interest rates and fees.
The 1-Year Credit Plan
- Pick a bad credit credit card
- Make tiny monthly purchases
- Pay your balance in full every month (avoid APR)
- Cancel or upgrade before 12 months (avoid maintenance fees)
- Build your credit
- Upgrade to a better card and move on
How These Cards Are Typically Structured
- Annual Fee – charged upfront or within the first billing cycle
- Monthly Maintenance Fees – often begin after the first 12 months
- Year 1 Period – usually the most predictable cost period for these accounts
This is why many people use these cards as a short-term credit-building tool. If you follow a responsible 12-month plan and move to a better card before long-term fees begin, you can reduce unnecessary costs while building your credit profile.
Before applying for any credit card, please review the terms and conditions of the offer to fully understand fees, rates, and requirements.
These cards aren’t perfect — but if you have less-than-perfect credit and want an unsecured option, they may be one of the few paths available. The key is using them responsibly and temporarily.
Most bad credit credit cards come with high APRs, monthly fees, and annual charges. Check the costs before filling out a pre-qualification form so you’re prepared for the offer you receive.
Indigo® Mastercard® for Less than Perfect Credit
- Get the credit limit you deserve—$700 guaranteed if approved
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
- Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
- Trusted by more than a million customers with reporting to all three major credit bureaus so you get credit for all of your hard work.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- Don't Have Perfect Credit? No Problem!
- No security deposit, just purchasing power.
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Indigo® Mastercard® - $1,000 Credit Limit
- Get the credit limit you deserve—$1,000 guaranteed if approved
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
- Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
- Trusted by more than a million customers with reporting to all three major credit bureaus so you get credit for all of your hard work.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- Don't Have Perfect Credit? No Problem!
- No security deposit, just purchasing power.
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card
- $0 Annual Fee. Clear terms and transparent pricing.
- See if you qualify instantly without harming your credit score.
- Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as few as 7 months.
- Free, online credit score access for cardholders.
- No interest on purchases when you pay in full and on time each month.
- No security deposit required – get started today!
- Enjoy coverage from Visa®.
- Access your account anytime, anywhere with our mobile app.
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
*Subject to terms and conditions
Destiny® Mastercard® with $1,000 Credit Limit
- Get a guaranteed $1,000 credit limit if approved!
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
- Join over a million consumers who use the Destiny Mastercard to help build their access to credit.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
- No security deposit, and a path to better credit.
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Destiny® Mastercard® - Up to 3% Cashback Rewards
- A rewards card for people with less-than-perfect credit!
- Fuel your savings! Get 3% Cashback Rewards on your first $5,000 in gas, grocery, restaurant, & mobile phone service purchases!
- A guaranteed $700 credit limit to help you build access to credit, if approved.
- With Cashback Rewards, you get to live like an A-lister.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- Join over a million consumers who use the Destiny Mastercard to help build their access to credit.
- No security deposit required—get started today!
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Destiny Mastercard®
- A guaranteed $700 credit limit to help get your financial goals on track, if approved.
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
- No security deposit, and a path to better credit.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
- An unsecured card great for everyday purchases
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Destiny® Mastercard® with Instant Credit
- A guaranteed $700 credit limit to help get your financial goals on track, if approved.
- Don't wait for your card to come in the mail. If approved, add your card to your mobile wallet and shop today. See Terms.
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
- No security deposit, just instant purchasing power. See Terms.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Imagine® Visa® Credit Card
- Earn Cash Back Rewards* – 3% on Eligible Gas, Groceries, and Utilities, and 1% on All Other Eligible Purchases
- Up to $1,000 credit limit subject to credit approval
- $0 fraud liability**
- No Security Deposit
- The Imagine Card is issued by WebBank
- Review Cardholder Agreement for rate and fee information
*See Program Terms for important information about the cash back rewards program.
**Zero liability subject to Visa’s Zero Liability Policy. - CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Milestone® Mastercard® - $1,000 Credit Limit
- Guaranteed $1,000 credit limit if approved.
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
- Don't Have Perfect Credit? No Problem!
- Join over a million consumers who are working on building their access to credit.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
- No security deposit, and a path to better credit.
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Milestone® Mastercard® 1.5% Cashback Rewards
- Turn everyday purchases into 1.5% Cashback Rewards!
- A guaranteed $700 credit limit to help get your financial goals on track, if approved.
- Apply with Confidence! No Impact to your credit score if you cannot be approved. See terms.
- No upfront security deposit required so you can keep more money in your pocket.
- Join over a million consumers who are working on building their access to credit.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- A rewards card for people with less than perfect credit!
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Milestone® Mastercard® with Cashback Rewards
- Guaranteed $1,000 credit limit if approved.
- Fuel your savings: Earn 5% Cashback Rewards on your first $5,000 in gas purchases! See Terms.
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
- Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- Don't Have Perfect Credit? No Problem!
- No security deposit required—get started today!
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Milestone® Mastercard®
- Guaranteed $700 credit limit if approved.
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
- Don't Have Perfect Credit? No Problem!
- Join over a million consumers who are working on building their access to credit.
- Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
- Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
- No security deposit, and a path to better credit.
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Avant Card
- Fast and easy application process
- No hidden fees
- We may periodically review your account for credit line increases
- Conveniently Pay Your Card Through Our Online Portal, 24/7
- Disclosure: If you are charged interest, the charge will be no less than $1.00
- Avant branded credit products are issued by WebBank
- Eligibility for a card is not guaranteed. Your eligibility for a card depends on the information you provide in your application
- ^See the Provider’s terms for more information
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
*See application for additional details
Avant Cash Back Rewards Card
- 2% Unlimited Cash Back on Every Purchase, Everywhere MasterCard is accepted†
- No Limit on Monthly Rewards Earned
- Fast and easy application process
- Conveniently Pay Your Card Through Our Online Portal, 24/7
- Disclosure: If you are charged interest, the charge will be no less than $1.00
- Avant branded credit products are issued by WebBank
- Eligibility for a card is not guaranteed. Your eligibility for a card depends on the information you provide in your application
- ^See the Provider’s terms for more information
- † See the Rewards Terms and Conditions for more information
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
*See application for additional details
Avant Cash Back Rewards Card
- 1% Unlimited Cash Back on Every Purchase, Everywhere MasterCard is accepted†
- No Limit on Monthly Rewards Earned
- Fast and easy application process
- Conveniently Pay Your Card Through Our Online Portal, 24/7
- Disclosure: If you are charged interest, the charge will be no less than $1.00
- Avant branded credit products are issued by WebBank
- Eligibility for a card is not guaranteed. Your eligibility for a card depends on the information you provide in your application
- ^See the Provider’s terms for more information
- † See the Rewards Terms and Conditions for more information
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
*See application for additional details
Avant Cash Back Rewards Card
- 1% Unlimited Cash Back on Every Purchase, Everywhere MasterCard is accepted†
- No Limit on Monthly Rewards Earned
- Fast and easy application process
- Conveniently Pay Your Card Through Our Online Portal, 24/7
- Disclosure: If you are charged interest, the charge will be no less than $1.00
- Avant branded credit products are issued by WebBank
- Eligibility for a card is not guaranteed. Your eligibility for a card depends on the information you provide in your application
- ^See the Provider’s terms for more information
- † See the Rewards Terms and Conditions for more information
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Aspire® Protect Mastercard
- Cell Phone Protection* – Receive up to $800 of replacement or repair costs if eligible cell phone is stolen or damaged.
- 24-hour Roadside Assistance*
- Up to $25,000 Identity Theft Expense Reimbursement Coverage*
- Up to $1,000 Credit Limit Subject to Credit Approval
- No Security Deposit
- $0 Fraud Liability*
- Prequalify** without affecting your Credit Score
- *Terms and Conditions apply. Click Apply Now for details.
- ** Prequalify means that you authorize us to make a soft inquiry into your credit history (that will not affect your credit) to create an offer. If you accept an offer a hard inquiry will be made. Final approval is not guaranteed if you do not meet all applicable criteria (including adequate proof of ability to repay). Income verification through access to your bank account information may be required.
Aspire® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard
- Earn Cash Back Rewards* – 3% on Eligible Gas, Groceries, and Utilities, and 1% on All Other Eligible Purchases
- Up to $1,000 credit limit subject to credit approval
- Prequalify** without affecting your credit score
- No security deposit
- Free Access to your Credit Score†
*See Program Terms for important information about the cash back rewards program.
** Prequalify means that you authorize us to make a soft inquiry into your credit history (that will not affect your credit) to create an offer. If you accept an offer a hard inquiry will be made. Final approval is not guaranteed if you do not meet all applicable criteria (including adequate proof of ability to repay). Income verification through access to your bank account information may be required.
† Your credit score will be available in your online account starting 60 days after your account is opened. (Registration required.) The free VantageScore 4.0 credit score provided by TransUnion® is for educational purposes only. This score may not be used by The Bank of Missouri (the issuer of this card) or other creditors to make credit decisions.
Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard
- Earn Cash Back Rewards* – 3% on Eligible Gas, Groceries, and Utilities, and 1% on All Other Eligible Purchases
- Use Anywhere Mastercard is Accepted
- No Security Deposit
- $0 fraud liability**
- Free access to your Credit Score†
*See Program Terms for important information about the cash back rewards program.
**Fraud liability subject to Mastercard rules.
† Your credit score will be available in your online account starting 60 days after your account is opened. (Registration required.) The free VantageScore 4.0 credit score provided by TransUnion® is for educational purposes only. This score may not be used by The Bank of Missouri (the issuer of this card) or other creditors to make credit decisions. - CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
Surge® Platinum Mastercard®
- Up to $1,000 Initial Credit Limit
- See if you Pre-Qualify with No Impact to your Credit Score
- Less than perfect credit? We understand. The Surge Mastercard is ideal for people looking to rebuild their credit.
- Unsecured credit card requires No Security Deposit
- Perfect card for everyday purchases and unexpected expenses
- Monthly reporting to the three major credit bureaus
- Use your card everywhere Mastercard is accepted at millions of locations
- Enjoy peace of mind with Mastercard Zero Liability Protection for unauthorized purchases (subject to Mastercard guidelines)
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved.
Reflex® Platinum Mastercard®
- Up to $1,000 Initial Credit Limit
- See if you Pre-Qualify with No Impact to your Credit Score
- Less than perfect credit? We understand. The Reflex Mastercard is ideal for people looking to rebuild their credit.
- Unsecured credit card requires No Security Deposit
- Perfect card for everyday purchases and unexpected expenses
- Monthly reporting to the three major credit bureaus
- Use your card everywhere Mastercard is accepted at millions of locations
- Enjoy peace of mind with Mastercard Zero Liability Protection for unauthorized purchases (subject to Mastercard guidelines)
- Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved.
After building your credit, you may qualify for better cards like Capital One, Citibank, or American Express. Check your eligibility regularly and upgrade when possible.
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FICO® Credit Scores
A FICO® Score is a proprietary credit score created by the Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO). About 90% of top U.S. lenders use it to make lending decisions.
FICO® Score Ranges:
- Exceptional: 800–850
- Very Good: 740–799
- Good: 670–739
- Fair: 580–669
- Poor: 300–579
FICO categorizes scores as Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good, and Exceptional.
What is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number (300–850) predicting your creditworthiness. Lenders use it to evaluate risk and determine rates and terms for credit.
Why it matters: A higher score can help you qualify for loans and lower interest rates. A lower score can lead to higher borrowing costs or application denials.
FICO® Credit Score Facts
- Three-Digit Number: Summarizes your credit risk.
- Range: 300–850; higher scores = lower risk.
- Data Source: Uses your credit reports from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
- Industry Standard: Lenders rely on FICO for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards.
Note: Credit scores reflect your creditworthiness but do not guarantee approval for any credit product.
Security Notice: All participating issuers use secure application systems protected by Transport Layer Security (TLS) encryption to help protect your information.
*See the online credit card applications for details about terms and conditions of credit card offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. When you click on the " Apply Now " button you can review the credit card terms and conditions on the credit card issuer's web site.
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