3 Credit Cards with $2000 Credit Limit For Bad Credit

You can find a high limit credit card without a deposit even when you have a poor score.

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Updated June 4, 2024
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Key takeaways

  • There are multiple credit cards for bad credit with $2000 limits. Subprime unsecured cards and secured cards are two popular options.
  • Improving your score through responsible management, timely payments, and low utilization is fundamental to qualifying for cards with higher limits.
  • Regularly update your income information and improve your score to get a credit limit increase.

$2000 credit card limit with no deposit required may seem like a dream for many. Most cards for low credit scores give significantly lower limits, making it difficult when you say, ‘I need $2,000 dollars now with bad credit.’

Only a handful of financial institutions offer such a high limit without the need for an upfront security deposit. These credit cards with a $2,000 limit provide a substantial credit line, enabling cardholders to make significant purchases while working on improving their scores.

We’ve compiled a list of the best cards for bad or fair credit that grant applicants a high limit. Get your desired limit, a chance to improve your score, and even cash back rewards.

Unsecured cards

Many unsecured cards for bad credit have very low limits of only $300 to $500. A handful will grant you a $1,000 limit. We have found three that offer limits of up to $2,000 when you demonstrate that you can use them responsibly – namely, pay your bills on time and keep your utilization low. Two of them even promise to double your line after only six months of responsible use, which is unheard of for most unsecured cards.

Take a look at our three favorite credit cards with a $2,000 limit and see if one is right for you.

Use secured credit cards

Using secured cards can be an effective strategy for obtaining higher limits if you have a bad score. Secured cards require a security deposit making them easier to qualify for, though there is no guaranteed approval. The deposit reduces the risk for the issuer and sets your credit limit. This makes them some of the best credit cards for rebuilding credit. By using a secured card responsibly—making on-time payments and keeping your balance low—you can demonstrate to lenders that you can manage borrowing well and should be trusted. Over time, this positive behavior can help improve your score.

Many secured cards report to the major credit bureaus, so your responsible usage will be reflected in your credit history. After a period of responsible use, usually around six months to a year, some issuers may increase your limit without requiring an additional deposit or offer you an upgrade to an unsecured card.

Before you choose a secured card, make sure the issuer reports your usage and payments to all three bureaus. Otherwise, your responsible financial habits won’t do anything to improve your score.

What is the easiest card to get approved with bad credit?

A lot of cards are not easy to get when you have a low score. In fact, many issuers are reluctant to approve candidates bad or fair credit, making it difficult to get an unsecured card. Fortunately, there are other options.

Secured credit cards

Secured cards are the closest you’ll get to credit cards with a $2,000 limit guaranteed approval. While there’s no such thing as 100% guaranteed approval, secured cards are the easiest to be approved for. Many issuers don’t do a hard inquiry and more don’t have minimum score requirement. They also tend to have lower fees and charge less interest than their secured counterparts.

A secured card requires a cash deposit that serves as collateral, minimizing the risk for issuers. While it may sound counterintuitive to deposit money to gain a credit card, this approach can be incredibly effective for those aiming to improve their score.

The deposit is usually equal to the limit you’re granted. A $200 deposit gives you a $200 limit. If you want a $2,000 limit you can easily get one by making a $2,000 security deposit. Certain secured cards will even give you a limit increase without requiring an additional deposit.

Secured cards are a stepping stone to better scores. Pay your bill on time, improve your score, and graduate to an unsecured card with better features.

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How to increase the approval odds?

No one likes to have their application declined. Especially if you’re in a financial pinch and need $2,000 by tomorrow. Luckily, there are ways to boost your approval odds and get the limit you want. Most are fast but a few do take some time.

Get prequalified

Getting prequalified is a smart first step. Many financial companies offer an online pre-qualification process that lets you know your chances of approval instantly without a hard inquiry on your report. It’s a quick way to gauge where you stand and what credit limit you can expect.

When you prequalify, you are not guaranteed approval. What prequalification does is let you see if you meet the basic criteria the issuer has set. This way, you don’t waste your time applying for cards you have no chance of being approved for.

Pay a security deposit

Secured cards are more interested in your security deposit than in your score. Many don’t even do a hard inquiry on your report. Apply and put down a security deposit – fully refundable – and you most likely will be approved.

Sufficient proof of income

Providing proof of sufficient income reassures creditors of your ability to repay, improving your approval chances. Lenders look for stability and reliability, so demonstrating a steady income can be a key factor in getting approved for a higher limit.

A lot of issuers will accept other forms of income including government benefits, child support, alimony, or Social Security payments. They simply wants to make sure you have enough money coming in to afford to make payments.

Find the card you want and apply today!

Credit Cards with $1,000 Credit Limit – Guaranteed Approval

Become an authorized user

Becoming an authorized user on someone else’s card is the closest thing to guaranteed approval. Being an authorized user can get you access to a higher credit limit immediately, help establish a positive payment history, and improve your score. This is especially true if the primary cardholder uses the card responsibly.

Almost all credit card issuers accept authorized users. The primary cardholder has to make the request and may be required to pay a fee. You receive your own copy of the card but the primary owner may restrict how much you can spend and set a separate limit.

It’s important to be respectful and trust each other since the primary owner is responsible for all the charges made.

Find a cosigner

A good cosigner score can significantly increase your approval odds. Your cosigner is equally responsible for all payments on the card, reducing the issuer’s risk. Make sure your issuer allows this, as many don’t, preferring authorized users instead.

Improve your credit

Improving your score takes time, but it is the best way to get approved for a card with a high initial credit limit. Most issuers want a score of 670 or higher. Once you hit this, you will have your choice of unsecured cards. Pay your bills on time, reduce any existing debt, keep your balances low, and avoid hard inquiries as much as possible to improve your score.

To speed up the process, you can report additional monthly payments to the credit bureaus. Certain companies report your rent, utility, and phone bills, so you get points for bills you’re already paying. Another option is to take out a credit builder loan. These loans don’t give you the money right away. Instead, it is held in a secured savings account, and you make monthly payments. The financial institution reports your on time payments, helping your score. Once the loan is paid off, you get to keep the money.

A better score not only improves your chances of approval but also helps you secure more favorable terms and higher credit limits.

What is the easiest credit card to get?

While there are no credit cards with a $2,000 limit and guaranteed approval there are cards that offer higher approval odds. If you have a poor score or no score at all, these cards offer the closest approximation to guaranteed approval.

Secured credit cards

A secured credit card is the easiest to get due to the security deposit that sets its limit. The deposit also provides a safety net for the issuer in case you fail to pay your bill. Almost all issuers report payment history and so a secured card is a good option to increase your score with few fees. Once your score has gone up move on to an unsecured card with better benefits.

Subprime credit cards

Subprime cards are designed for people with a score of 669 or lower, making them among the easiest unsecured cards to acquire, though slightly harder to be approved for than secured cards. They often come with high interest rates and various fees to offset the risk to lenders. While the terms may not be as favorable as those found with secured cards, responsible use—including timely payments and keeping balances low—can improve your score and lead to higher spending limits.

Prepaid cards

Prepaid cards are easily accessible if you have a low score. They are not technically credit cards and do not involve borrowing, so they cannot help you improve your score. Prepaid cards are more like debit cards. You load them with funds upfront and can only spend what you’ve already added. Their advantage is you don’t need a bank account or credit history to access them and they can help with budgeting and spending practices. Use them to store money for purchases, pay bills, transfer funds, or withdraw cash from an ATM. Prepaid cards serve as a practical tool for developing financial discipline without the risk of accruing debt.

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What is the minimum credit score required for credit cards with $2,000 limit guaranteed approval?

Credit cards with a $2,000 limit and guaranteed approval typically do not exist, especially for consumers with very poor scores. First of all, there is no such thing as guaranteed approval. There are cards with lenient requirements, but no issuer accepts every applicant.

Most issuers assess applicants’ creditworthiness based on their scores, income, and overall financial history. They will be wary of approving a $2,000 limit if you have a score below 670. That said, it’s not the case with all financial institutions. Some secured cards and specialized subprime cards offer higher credit limits with more lenient approval criteria.

For secured cards, the limit is usually determined by the amount of the security deposit you provide. If you can afford to put down a $2,000 deposit, you may secure a card with a $2,000 limit, even if your score is low. These cards can be a valuable tool for improving your score as long as you use them responsibly.

For unsecured cards designed for low ratings, the minimum score required typically ranges from 300 to 650. While these cards may offer higher limits over time, they usually start with lower limits and gradually increase as you demonstrate responsible usage.

Ultimately, no specific minimum score guarantees approval for a $2,000 limit without considering other financial factors. Focusing on improving your score and maintaining good financial habits will increase your chances of qualifying for higher credit limits in the future.

What minimum monthly payment should I make on my credit card balance?

The minimum monthly payment is, as the name suggests, the smallest amount you must pay by the due date to keep your account in good standing and avoid late fees. Typically, this amount is calculated as a percentage of your outstanding balance, often around 1% to 3%, plus any accrued interest and fees.

While making the minimum payment keeps you in good standing, it is advisable to pay more than the minimum – the entire balance – whenever possible. Paying only the minimum extends the time it takes to pay off your debt and increases the amount of interest you’ll pay over time. This is especially important if you have a high $2,000 limit card, as balances can accumulate quickly.

For example, if your balance is $2,000 with an interest rate of 20%, the minimum payment might be around $40 to $60. Paying only this amount means a significant portion goes towards interest, not principal reduction.

To manage your debt effectively, aim to pay off as much of your balance as you can each month. Reducing your balance faster not only saves on interest but also lowers your utilization ratio, which positively impacts your score.

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Is a 2k credit limit good?

2000 credit limit

When it comes to the value of a 2k credit card limit, context is key. If your score is good, it may not feel like a lot. Experian found that most Americans have a credit limit of $28,930 across all their cards. On the other hand, a $2,000 limit is quite good for someone with a poor score. A lot of unsecured subprime cards approve a maximum limit of only $500 and only let you increase your limit when you improve your score or earn a higher income. A $2,000 limit gives more financial flexibility, though whether this limit is really ‘good’ depends on your individual financial needs, spending habits, and goals.

A $2,000 limit provides a moderate amount of spending power that can be sufficient for day-to-day expenses and smaller emergencies. It allows for manageable spending, makes it easier to maintain a low utilization ratio, and provides an opportunity to show you can pay your bills on time.

Banks tend to be reluctant to issue high limits for low scores due to fear of default. A higher limit can cause people to go into debt and 2k credit card debt is bad. Most people spend more than they earn and then cannot make payments. When you can’t make payments, the credit card company charges late fees and penalty APRs making it even harder to catch up on bills. This is how so many people end up in debt. Your limit should reflect both your score and income making it harder to go into debt.

Read more about debt.

How much can you spend on credit cards with a $2,000 limit?

When you have a card with a $2,000 limit, it’s important to manage your spending to maintain a healthy score and avoid financial strain. Ideally, you should aim to keep your utilization ratio below 30%. This means spending no more than $600 at any given time. Keeping your balance low relative to your limit demonstrates to lenders that you can manage borrowing responsibly. This, in turn, can positively impact your score.

If you need to make larger purchases, try to pay down your balance as quickly as possible to free up available credit and keep your utilization low. You can also make multiple payments throughout the month to help keep your balances low.

Regular, timely payments are crucial for maintaining and improving your score. Before you swipe your card, consider your ability to repay the purchase. Only spend what you can afford to pay off each month. This way you’ll avoid accumulating high-interest debt.

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What credit card can I get with bad credit and no deposit?

Finding credit cards with a $2,000 credit limit can be a daunting task, especially for those with poor scores who don’t want to make a deposit. There are unsecured cards designed specifically for people with low scores. These cards often come with higher interest rates and fees but can still be a valuable financial tool.

While some of these cards may not initially offer a $2,000 limit, they represent a starting point for anyone who prefers not to provide a security deposit.

Using unsecured cards responsibly is key. This includes making timely payments each month and keeping your balances low relative to your limit. Consistent, responsible use of these cards can demonstrate to lenders that you can manage borrowing well, gradually improving your rating over time.

As your score improves, you’ll become eligible for more cards that offer higher limits, including those with more favorable terms, such as lower interest rates and fees. Starting with an unsecured card can be a practical first step in your journey toward a better rating and access to higher limits.

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How to get a credit card with a $2,000 limit?

Obtaining a credit card with a $2,000 limit when you have a low score is tough. There are, however, a few strategic steps you can take:

  1. Start with a Secured Card: Begin with a secured card, which requires a security deposit equal to your limit. Use this card responsibly by making timely payments and keeping your balance low to build a positive payment history.
  2. Improve Your Score: Pay bills on time, reduce outstanding debt, and avoid new inquiries. Regularly monitor your credit report to ensure accuracy and address any errors promptly. You can get your report for free once a year from annualcreditreport.com.
  3. Demonstrate Stable Income: Lenders are more likely to offer higher limits if you have a stable and sufficient income. Ensure your income details are up-to-date and put down additional income like spousal income, government benefits, or child support.
  4. Request a Limit Increase: After demonstrating responsible behavior for six months to a year, request a limit increase from your current card issuer. Positive payment history and low utilization can support your request. A raise at work will also help your case.
  5. Become an Authorized User: Ask to become an authorized user on a trusted family member’s or friend’s high-limit card. This can help boost your score, provided the primary cardholder maintains good financial habits.

By following these steps, you can gradually build a strong rating and qualify for cards with $2,000 limits.

Do I need a bank account for a credit card?

While having a bank account is not a strict requirement for obtaining a credit card, it is highly beneficial and often expected by most card issuers. A bank account facilitates the management of your payments, making it easier to pay your bill on time, either through direct debit or online transfers. Some secured cards might require a bank account to hold the security deposit.

Without a bank account, you can still make payments via money orders or cash payments at certain locations, but this can be inconvenient and may result in delayed payments. Additionally, having a bank account is often seen as a sign of financial stability, which can positively impact your application. Overall, while not mandatory, having a bank account simplifies the process of managing and maintaining a credit card.

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How to increase your chances of getting the maximum credit card limit?

A $2,000 credit line is within reach. It simply takes some strategic steps to improve your chances of securing one.

Apply strategically

Research before you apply for a $2,000 credit card. Look for a card issuer known for offering generous initial $2,000 limits or one that will increase your limit fast. Make sure you only apply for cards where you meet the minimum credit score required. Applying for cards from issuers where you already have a positive banking relationship can increase your odds of getting a favorable decision.

Improve your score

Once again, take the time to improve your score so that you will get the best card offerings. This involves paying down existing debt, making all your payments on time, and keeping your utilization low. A good score above 670 signals to lenders that you’re a low-risk borrower, often resulting in higher limits and better offers.

Increase your income

Higher income levels can lead to higher limits. The card issuer wants to be sure you can pay your bill. If you earn more money the chances are you can afford to borrow more and will be given a higher limit. Regularly update your income information as it may result in a limit increase.

Additionally, when applying for a new card, be sure to report all your income, including any side gigs, child support, or government benefits, so the issuer has the full picture of your monthly earnings.

Leverage your relationship

If you’ve had a card for a while and have demonstrated at least six months of on time payments and low utilization, don’t be afraid to ask for an increase. Tell the customer service representative about how loyal and responsible a customer you’ve been. Be prepared to provide updated financial information to support your request.

Your issuer may be willing to increase your limit, as a higher limit means you’re more likely to spread payments out over a few months and accrue interest. Be aware that the issuer may ask for proof, like an increased income, to show you can afford a the increase. Whatever you do, do not sound desperate.

Pay an additional deposit

For secured cards, the simplest ways to increase your limit is by paying an additional deposit. Most issuers allow you to do this, though some cap it at $5,000.

Apply for another card

An easy solution is to apply for another card. Secured cards are a good option because they are easy to get approved for. Look for cards that offer high limits and have few or low annual or hidden fees.

Become an authorized user

Being added as an authorized user on someone else’s card lets you use their card and so access their limit. This doesn’t directly increase your limit on existing cards but increases your cumulative limit.

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How can I build credit to get a credit limit increase?

The most effective way to qualify for a credit limit increase is to build credit. A higher score is often rewarded with a higher credit line. Many issuers want you to have a score of 580 or more to get a $2,000 limit.

Follow a few simple rules:

  • Pay your bills on time
  • Use less than 30% of your limit
  • Reduce your debt to income ratio
  • Do not apply for multiple cards at once
  • Keep old cards open and active

It will take time, but eventually, your score will increase, and so will your approval odds.

Find more ways to improve your score on MoneyFor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I get a credit card with a $2,000 limit?

Yes, you can get a card with a $2,000 limit. Most secured cards let you set your own limit from $200 up to $3,000. You simply provide the matching security deposit. Additionally, certain card issuers specialize in offering high limits no matter your rating. Many start you off with a lower limit and only increase it after a period of consistent on time payments.

2. Is $2,000 a good credit limit?

A $2,000 limit can be considered good, especially for those with a bad rating. It provides enough flexibility for essential purchases and emergencies without excessive risk of overspending. Managing a $2,000 limit responsibly can help build credit, demonstrating to lenders that you can handle borrowing larger amounts responsibly.

3. Can you spend $2,000 on a credit card?

Yes, you can spend $2,000 on a card if your limit is at least that amount. However, it’s not always the smart thing to do. Before you charge anything to a card, make sure you can afford to pay for it. Carrying a balance will lead to high interest charges. If you need $2000 dollars now with bad credit, you may be better off taking out a loan. Also, you want to keep your utilization rate low, ideally below 30%. To charge $2,000 on a card and maintain a low utilization rate, you will have to have a very high limit.

4. Why is my credit limit only $2,000?

You may only have a $2,000 limit due to factors such as your credit history, rating, and income. Lenders use these factors to determine how much of a risk you are and what you can afford. If you have a history of defaults, late payments, or a low income, they will set your limit low.

5. What is the minimum monthly payment on a $2,000 limit credit card?

The minimum monthly payment on a $2,000 limit card typically ranges from 1% to 3% of the outstanding balance, plus any interest and fees. For example, if you owe $1,000, the minimum payment might be $10 to $30, plus interest and fees. Check your card’s terms for exact details, as they can vary by issuer.

6. What does it mean to have a $2,000 credit line?

Having a $2,000 credit line means your card issuer allows you to borrow up to $2,000 for purchases, balance transfers, or cash advances. This limit is the maximum amount you can owe on the card at any time.

7. What credit card has the highest credit limit?

Premium cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express Platinum, and certain Visa Infinite cards are known for extremely high limits, sometimes exceeding $50,000.

8. What credit card for bad credit has a $2000 limit?

The cards we mentioned above are all for bad credit and have limits up to $2,000. These cards may start with lower limits but can increase with responsible use. Some secured cards allow a higher limit if you provide a larger security deposit. Always check specific terms and conditions.

9. Is there a credit card with guaranteed approval?

No card issuer offers guaranteed approval, but some cards have very lenient approval criteria. These secured cards don’t require a credit check, making them accessible to those with poor scores. Approval still depends on meeting basic requirements like income and identity verification.

10. Is a $2,000 credit limit good?

A $2,000 credit limit is considered good for those building credit. It provides enough purchasing power for everyday expenses while helping maintain a low utilization rate. How you use the limit responsibly matters more than the amount itself.

Bottom line

You may be able to credit cards with a $2,000 limit even without a good score. Secured cards are easy to get – some skip the credit check entirely. Others link to your bank account so you don’t have to worry about a security deposit.

If you have your heart set on an unsecured card, you may have to settle for a lower initial credit limit. Prove that you can handle borrowing money responsibly, pay all your bills on time, don’t max out your card and you can be rewarded with a limit increase.

The best thing you can do to improve your chances of securing a high limit card is to increase your score. For a quick boost, look into bill reporting services and credit builder loans. It takes time and patience to raise your rating into the good range but it is entirely worth it. Once there, you will have access to better-quality cards, higher limits, lower costs, and more generous cash back rewards. Buckle down and do the work, but in the meantime, there are plenty of options for you.

About the author

Rachel Alulis

Rachel Alulis has been the lead editor for Moneyfor’s credit cards team since 2015 and for the financial rewards team since 2023. Before joining Moneyfor, Rachel worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register. She then established a successful freelance writing and editing business specializing in personal finance. Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and an MBA.