First Progress Secured Credit Cards

What Is a Secured Credit Card?

A secured card looks and acts in the same manner as any other credit card. The difference between a secured card and an “unsecured” card is that secured credit cards require a security deposit. Security deposits are a refundable payment to a lender that provides the collateral for a line of credit. Typically, that collateral is also the available credit limit.

Once an account is opened, the cardholder can use their secured card like any other credit card. They’ll receive the same purchase protection and security of an unsecured card. In essence, no one will be able to tell the difference. And, with regular on-time payments, they can quickly rebuild their credit.

Once a secured card account is closed, the account holder will receive their deposit back in full. If, however, they fail to pay off their balance, the issuer has the right to withhold some (or all) of the deposit to recover their losses.

Features of Secured Cards

Many secured credit cards have a few features in common. These include:

• Security Deposit: All secured cards require a deposit – typically starting around $200
• Annual Fee: Secured cards usually charge an annual fee. These can range from $25 to over $100, though First Progress features very competitive yearly charges.
• Report to Major Credit Bureaus: Most importantly, all secured cards report to the three major credit reporting bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This regular reporting ensures that cardholders can quickly rebuild credit with responsible use of their card.

Who Can Benefit from a First Progress Secured Credit Card?

Who are secured cards designed for? First Progress credit cards are ideal for those who are new to credit. Those with no credit history at all often struggle to find a lender willing to take a chance on them.

For those individuals, secured cards provide a foothold into the world of credit. And, once they establish a strong credit history with regular payments, they can graduate to different types of unsecured cards, such as rewards credit cards.

Secured credit cards are also perfect for those in need of a credit boost. This includes consumers with previous financial troubles affecting their credit. Secured cards can also be useful to students who want to build a credit history, but aren’t ready to apply for an unsecured student credit card.

Common First Progress Credit Card FAQs