Best No-Credit Check Cards with Instant Approval

If you have limited or poor credit it can be hard to get a credit card. Most card issuers say you need good credit – 670 or above – to get a card. The problem is, to build that good credit you need credit accounts that they won’t give you. It’s frustrating, we know.

That’s why we have a solution for you. Cards with no credit checks. They may be less common, but there are enough out there that you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.

To help you get started, here are our favorite no credit check cards.

Different Types of No Credit Check Credit Cards

No credit check credit cards come in various forms, catering to different financial needs and situations. Two primary types are merchandise cards and secured credit cards.

Merchandise Cards

Merchandise cards are a specific type of no credit check credit card designed primarily for use at particular retailers or online stores. These cards often do not require a traditional credit check, making them accessible to individuals with poor or no credit history. Here are key characteristics:

– Limited Use: Merchandise cards can typically only be used to purchase items from the issuing retailer or a network of affiliated stores.

– High Fees: These cards often come with significant fees, including annual fees, membership fees, and even fees for each purchase.

– Installment Plans: Many merchandise cards operate on installment plans, allowing users to pay for purchases over time, but at a high interest rate.

– Credit Building: Although some report payment history to credit bureaus, the high costs associated with these cards can outweigh the benefits of credit building if not managed properly.

Merchandise cards can be a stepping stone for building credit, but users should be cautious of their high fees, limited usability, and that not all issuers report payments.

Secured Credit Cards

Secured credit cards are another popular option for individuals looking to build or rebuild their credit without undergoing a credit check. These cards require a security deposit, which acts as collateral and typically determines the card’s credit limit.

Security Deposit: Users must provide a refundable security deposit, usually ranging from $200 to $500, which secures the credit limit on the card.
Credit Building: Most secured credit cards report to the major credit bureaus, helping users build or improve their credit scores with responsible use.
Lower Fees: While not fee-free, secured cards generally have lower fees compared to merchandise cards. Some may even offer benefits similar to traditional credit cards, such as rewards or lower interest rates.
Wider Acceptance: Secured credit cards are accepted wherever traditional credit cards are, providing greater flexibility and convenience.

Secured credit cards are a viable option for those serious about improving their credit scores. The initial deposit can be a hurdle, but the long-term benefits of responsible use can significantly outweigh the upfront cost.

Is a Merchandise Card or Secured Credit Card a Better Choice?

When deciding between a merchandise card and a secured credit card, it’s important to consider your financial goals and needs.

A merchandise card is typically used for purchasing items from specific retailers or catalogs. These cards are easier to obtain for individuals with poor credit, often without a credit check. However, they come with significant limitations: high fees, high interest rates, and restricted use only at designated stores. They can help build credit if the issuer reports to credit bureaus, but their overall utility is limited.

On the other hand, a secured credit card requires a cash deposit, which acts as collateral and usually equals your credit limit. Secured credit cards can be used anywhere that accepts credit cards, providing much more flexibility. They are specifically designed to help build or rebuild credit, with most issuers reporting to all three major credit bureaus. Although they might also have fees and higher interest rates compared to traditional credit cards, these are generally lower than those of merchandise cards.

A secured credit card is usually the better choice due to its broader acceptance, lower fees, and stronger potential for building credit. It offers more financial flexibility and can be a more effective tool in improving your credit score over time.

Why Get a No Credit Check Credit Card?

No credit check credit cards can be an attractive option for several reasons, particularly for individuals facing challenges with traditional credit card approvals. Here are some compelling reasons to consider:

Accessibility: These cards are easier to obtain for individuals with poor or no credit history since they do not require a credit check. This makes them ideal for those who have been denied traditional credit cards.

Credit Building: Responsible use of no credit check credit cards can help build or rebuild credit as long as the issuer reports to the three major credit bureaus.

Immediate Financial Needs: They can provide quick access to credit, which is beneficial in emergency situations or for covering unexpected expenses.

Learning Financial Discipline: With typically lower credit limits, these cards encourage careful spending and financial management, helping users develop better financial habits.

While they come with higher fees and interest rates, the potential benefits of improved credit scores and financial inclusion make no credit check credit cards a viable option for many.

Advantages of no credit check credit cards

No credit check credit cards can offer several advantages, especially for individuals with poor or no credit history. Here are some key benefits:

Accessibility:

– Easier Approval: Since these cards do not require a credit check, they are more accessible to individuals with poor credit scores or no credit history.

– Immediate Availability: Approval processes are usually quicker, allowing for faster access to credit.

Credit Building:

– Credit Score Improvement: Responsible use of these cards can help users build or improve their credit scores over time. Regular, on-time payments are reported to credit bureaus, contributing to a positive credit history.

Financial Flexibility:

– Emergency Use: They can provide a financial cushion in emergencies or unexpected expenses, offering flexibility when needed.

– Cash Flow Management: Useful for managing cash flow, especially for those who are self-employed or have irregular income streams.

Learning Financial Discipline:

– Controlled Spending: Often, these cards come with lower credit limits, encouraging users to manage their spending and learn financial discipline.

– Financial Education: Users can gain experience in managing credit responsibly without the risk of falling into significant debt.

No Hard Inquiry:

– No Impact on Credit Score: Applying for these cards does not result in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can negatively impact your credit score.

Inclusivity:

– Wider Audience: They provide credit access to a wider audience, including immigrants, students, and others who may not have a traditional credit history.

Diverse Options:

– Variety of Choices: There are several types of no credit check credit cards available, including secured cards (requiring a deposit) and prepaid cards, giving users options based on their financial situation and preferences.

Despite these advantages, it is essential to be aware of potential drawbacks, such as higher fees and interest rates. Users should carefully read the terms and conditions to fully understand the costs and responsibilities associated with no credit check credit cards.

Disadvantage of no credit check credit cards

No credit check credit cards can come with several disadvantages, which potential users should carefully consider before applying. Here are some key drawbacks:

Higher Fees:

– Annual Fees: These cards often have higher annual fees compared to traditional credit cards.

– Maintenance Fees: Some cards charge monthly maintenance fees or setup fees.

– Transaction Fees: There may be additional fees for transactions such as cash advances, balance transfers, or foreign transactions.

High Interest Rates:

– APR: Interest rates on no credit check credit cards tend to be significantly higher, which can lead to substantial interest charges if the balance is not paid in full each month.

Low Credit Limits:

– Limited Spending Power: These cards typically come with low credit limits, which may not be sufficient for larger purchases or emergencies.

– High Utilization Rate: Low limits can lead to a high credit utilization rate, which can negatively impact your credit score if the balance is not managed carefully.

Limited Rewards and Benefits:

– Fewer Perks: No credit check credit cards often offer fewer rewards, cashback, or other perks compared to traditional credit cards.

– Basic Features: They usually lack advanced features such as travel insurance, purchase protection, or extended warranties.

Security Deposit (for Secured Cards):

– Initial Cost: Secured cards require a security deposit, which can be a significant upfront cost and ties up your funds.

– Limited Refundability: The security deposit may not be easily refundable if you decide to close the account or if you default on payments.

Potential for Predatory Practices:

– Aggressive Marketing: Some issuers of no credit check credit cards may engage in aggressive marketing practices, targeting individuals with poor credit without fully disclosing the high costs and fees.

– Hidden Fees: There might be hidden fees and terms that can make these cards more expensive than they initially appear.

Impact on Credit Building:

– Slow Credit Improvement: While these cards can help build credit, the process might be slower compared to other credit-building options due to higher costs and lower credit limits.

– Limited Reporting: Some issuers may not report to all three major credit bureaus, which can limit the positive impact on your credit score.

Risk of Debt Accumulation:

– Debt Trap: High fees and interest rates can lead to a cycle of debt if the cardholder is unable to manage their spending and repayments effectively.

Inflexible Terms:

– Strict Conditions: These cards often have rigid terms and conditions, leaving little room for negotiation or flexibility in case of financial hardship.

Given these disadvantages, it’s crucial for individuals to weigh the pros and cons and to consider alternative options for building or rebuilding credit, such as secured credit cards from reputable institutions or credit-builder loans.

How Can a Credit Card Help Improve Your Credit Score?

Using a credit card responsibly can significantly improve your credit score through several key mechanisms:

Payment History: Consistently making on-time payments is one of the most critical factors in your credit score. Regular, timely payments on your credit card can positively impact your credit report.
Credit Utilization Ratio: This ratio compares your credit card balances to your credit limits. Keeping your utilization below 30% shows lenders that you manage credit responsibly, positively influencing your score.
Credit Mix: Having a variety of credit types, such as credit cards, installment loans, and retail accounts, can improve your credit score. Using a credit card adds to this mix, demonstrating your ability to handle different credit forms.
Length of Credit History: The longer you maintain an active credit card account, the better it is for your credit score. A longer credit history provides more data to assess your creditworthiness.
New Credit Inquiries: While applying for new credit can cause a temporary dip in your score, responsibly managing the new account can lead to long-term improvement.

By adhering to these principles, a credit card can be a powerful tool for building and maintaining a strong credit score.

Frequently asked questions

1. What are no-credit check credit cards?

No-credit check credit cards are credit cards that do not require a traditional credit check during the application process. They are designed for individuals with poor or no credit history, providing an opportunity to access credit and possibly build a positive credit record.

2. Are there high fees associated with no-credit check credit cards?

Yes, no-credit check credit cards often come with higher fees, including annual fees, setup fees, and higher interest rates compared to traditional credit cards. It’s essential to read the terms and conditions carefully to understand all associated costs.

3. Can no-credit check credit cards help improve my credit score?

Yes, if used responsibly and if the issuer reports payments. Timely payments and maintaining a low credit utilization ratio can help improve your credit score over time. Most issuers report your payment history to major credit bureaus, contributing to credit building.

4. Are secured credit cards considered no-credit check credit cards?

Some secured credit cards do not require a credit check. These cards require a security deposit, which serves as collateral and typically sets the credit limit. They are a popular option for individuals looking to rebuild or establish their credit.

Bottom Line

Having access to a card and not having to pay cash or rely on debit can be a game-changer. If you have poor credit or little to no credit history, the options may seem limited, but the five cards we’ve listed – Merit Platinum, the Current Build Card, Accepted Platinum, Net First Platinum, and Chime’s Secured Credit Builder Visa – provide a glimmer of hope. They offer the opportunity to manage your expenses and gain control over your financial life.

No matter where you are on your financial journey, these no credit check cards can be an essential tool for making progress. They offer a chance to improve your financial standing, establish a positive credit history, and pave the way for a more secure financial future. So, take that first step toward financial empowerment and explore these card options to get your financial life back on track.

1. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.

2. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card is issued by Choice Financial Group pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. The Current Visa® secured charge card is issued by Cross River Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.

3. Individual results may vary. Using your credit card responsibly may allow you to improve your credit score. Credit building depends on various factors, including your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and other financial activities.

4. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.

5. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Funds held in Savings Pods are FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at our partner bank Choice Financial Group, member FDIC

6. Actual overdraft amount may vary and is subject to change at any time, at Current’s sole discretion. In order to qualify and enroll in the Fee-Free Overdraft feature, you must receive $500 or more in Qualifying Deposits into your Current Account over the preceding 30-day period. For more information, please refer to Fee-free Overdraft Terms and Conditions.

7. You may earn Points in connection with your everyday spending and by completing other actions that Current designates as subject to the Current Points Program. The amount of Points granted for different actions as well as the purchase requirements necessary to earn Points will vary, and is subject to Current’s sole discretion. After qualifying, please allow 3-5 business days for points to post to your Current account. The Current Points program is not available to Teen Account holders. See Current Points Terms and Conditions.

8. Some fees may apply, including out of network ATM fees of $2.50 per transaction, late payment fees of 3% of any total due balance outstanding and past due for two or more billing cycles, foreign transaction fees of 3% of the full transaction amount (minimum $0.50), card replacement fees per card of $5 for regular delivery and $30 for expedited delivery, cash deposit fees of $3.50 per deposit, and third party processing fees.

9. Boost Bonuses are credited to your Savings Pods within 48 hours of enabling the Boost feature and on a daily basis thereafter, provided that the Savings Pod has accrued a Boost Bonus of at least $0.01. The Boost rate on Savings Pods is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed rate is effective as of August 1, 2023. Must have $0.01 in Savings Pods to earn a Boost rate of either 0.25% or 4.00% annually on the portion of balances up to $2000 per Savings Pod, up to $6000 total. The remaining balance earns 0.00%. A qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more is required for 4.00%. No minimum balance required. For more information, please refer to Current Boost Terms and Conditions.

10. Cryptocurrency services are powered by Zero Hash LLC and Zero Hash Liquidity Services LLC, and may not be available in all states. Terms and conditions apply. When you buy or sell cryptocurrency, a difference between the current market price and the price you buy or sell that asset for is called a spread. However, unlike most other exchanges Current does not charge an additional trading fee. Cryptocurrency transactions are a form of investment, and all investments are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested. Cryptocurrency is not insured by the FDIC or any other government-backed or third-party insurance. Your purchase of cryptocurrency is not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by, Choice Financial Group or Cross River Bank. The cryptocurrency assets in your Zero Hash account are not held at Current, Choice Financial Group, or Cross River Bank. Current, Choice Financial Group, and Cross River Bank are not responsible for the cryptocurrency assets held in any Zero Hash account. Neither Current, Choice, nor Cross River Bank is involved in the purchase, sale, exchange of fiat funds for cryptocurrency, or custody of the cryptocurrencies. Terms and Conditions apply (platform and user agreements). Crypto on Current is not currently available in HI. Licensed to engage in Virtual Currency Business Activity by the New York State Department of Financial Services. This does not constitute investment advice.

11. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Your money is FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at each of our partner banks, Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank, members FDIC.

12. Average value based on Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings in 2023 for stays of two nights. Benefits include daily breakfast for two, room upgrade upon arrival when available, $100 amenity, guaranteed 4PM late checkout, and noon check-in when available. Certain room categories not eligible for upgrade. $100 amenity varies by property. Actual value will vary based on property, room rate, upgrade availability, and use of benefits.

13. Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

14. The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

15. Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one- way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

16. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

17. Coverage for a Stolen or damaged Eligible Cellular Wireless Telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per Eligible Card Account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per Eligible Card Account per 12 month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

18. When an American Express® Card Member charges a Covered Purchase to an Eligible Card, Extended Warranty§ can provide up to one extra year added to the Original Manufacturer’s Warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your Card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

19. Purchase Protection is an embedded benefit of your Card Membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect Covered Purchases made on your Eligible Card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the Covered Purchase date. The coverage is limited to up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Coverage Limits Apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

20. Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC.

21. The secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card is issued by Stride Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted.

22. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted.

23. The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of September 20, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.

24. There’s no fee for the Chime Savings Account. Cash withdrawal and Third-party fees may apply to Chime Checking Accounts. You must have a Chime Checking Account to open a Chime Savings Account.

25. To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.

26. Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.

27. Based on a representative study conducted by Experian®, members who made their first purchase with Credit Builder between June 2020 and October 2020 observed an average FICO® Score 8 increase of 30 points after approximately 8 months. On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score.

28. On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Chime will report your activities to Transunion®, Experian®, and Equifax®. Impact on your credit may vary, as Credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations.

29. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.

30. SpotMe® on Debit is an optional, no fee overdraft service attached to your Chime Checking Account. To qualify for the SpotMe on Debit service, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month and have activated your Visa debit card. Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account for up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially but may later be eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe on Debit limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime’s sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe on Debit, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe on Debit will not cover any non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. SpotMe on Debit Terms and Conditions.

31. Tipping or not tipping has no impact on your eligibility for SpotMe®.

32. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

33. Save When I Get Paid automatically transfers 10% of your direct deposits of $500 or more from your Checking Account into your savings account.

34. Round Ups automatically round up debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the round up from your Chime Checking Account to your savings account.

35. Mobile Check Deposit eligibility is determined by Chime in its sole discretion and may be granted based on various factors including, but not limited to, a member’s direct deposit enrollment status.

36. Funds are automatically debited from your Checking Account and typically deposited into the recipient’s Checking Account within seconds. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed.

37. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. Non-Chime members must use a valid debit card to claim funds.

* EarnIn is not available for Connecticut residents

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.