Before we get into the best instant approval credit cards for bad credit, it’s important to note that there technically aren’t any good “instant approval credit cards” out there.
Most issuers that promise an instant credit card without a credit check — you’ll see one exception below — are predatory lenders. So these are not the kind of instant credit cards you want.
Not only do they charge outrageous fees (no legitimate credit card issuer is going to charge you a fee to process your application or monthly maintenance), but many don’t report all of your activity to the three national credit bureaus.
And if they don’t do that, you won’t build any credit by using them.
That said, there are some credit cards that are easier to get approved for, even if you have bad credit. So, some of these cards still go by the term “instant approval credit cards for bad credit” because your chances of getting approved are fairly high.
As you decide which card to get, here’s what to consider:
Now, let’s get to the best instant approval credit cards and why we like them.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided or commissioned by the credit card issuer. Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author’s alone, and may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer. This site may be compensated through a credit card issuer partnership.
This article was last updated June 18, 2018 but some terms and conditions may have changed or are no longer available. For the most accurate and up to date information please consult the terms and conditions found on the issuer website.
Application Process: Approval is typically instant.
Rewards: You may or may not get approved to earn rewards. If you do, you'll earn 1% cash back on eligible gas and groceries plus mobile phone, internet, cable, and satellite TV services.
Bonus Offers: None.
Annual Fee: Annual fees range from $0 to $99.
Details:Credit One Bank® Visa® Credit Card »
Application Process: Apply online and get a response within 60 seconds.
Rewards: None.
Bonus Offers: None.
Annual Fee: $35.
Details:OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card »Application Process: Apply online and get a response within 60 seconds.
Rewards: None.
Bonus Offers: None.
Annual Fee: None.
Details:Capital One® Platinum Credit Card »Application Process: Apply online and get a response within 60 seconds. Have your deposit ready when you apply because you’ll need it right away.
Rewards: None.
Bonus Offers: None.
Annual Fee: $29.
Details:Platinum Elite MasterCard® Secured Credit Card »
Application Process: Apply online and get a response within 60 seconds. A Social Security number isn't required, but you will need:
Rewards: A flat rate of 1% cash back on all purchases.
Bonus Offers: Use your Deserve Edu card to sign up for an Amazon Prime Student subscription and get reimbursed up to a lifetime total of $49.
Annual Fee: None.
Details:Deserve Edu Mastercard »
Join the conversation
5 Best Instant Approval Credit Cards
Thanks for reading my article. I value your feedback and invite you to join the conversation: