Bad Credit? Need Money? Fast $750 with Merit Platinum Card

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Key takeaways

The Merit Platinum Card offers a $750 credit limit with no credit or employment checks, making it accessible for those with bad or limited credit.
The card includes valuable benefits like 0% APR, no annual fees, and additional perks such as prescription savings and free roadside assistance.
While the card is easy to be approved for, users should consider the $14.77 monthly fee and its limited usability at theHorizonOutlet.com.

Boost your shopping power with the Merit Platinum Card. This merchant card offers an impressive initial credit limit of up to $750, providing you with a substantial amount to start with. You can get this high limit without undergoing an employment or credit check.

Whether you have a poor credit score or no credit history at all, this card is accessible and will let you charge purchases.

Let’s explore how the Merit Platinum Card can be the perfect solution.

What we like about the Merit Platinum Card

Instant access to credit

Applying for the Merit Platinum Card is a quick and straightforward process designed to give you instant access to credit. The application process is streamlined, allowing you to apply in no time at all.

Once you submit your application, you’ll receive a prompt response letting you know if you’ve been approved right away. Merit Platinum is committed to making it easy for you to get approved.

No credit history? No worries

One of the standout features of the Merit Platinum Card is its accessibility for people with limited or poor credit histories. Unlike traditional credit cards, which often require a thorough credit check, the Merit Platinum Card does not require one at all.

No job, no problem

In addition to not requiring a credit check, the Merit Platinum Card also does not require an employment check. This feature makes the card accessible to a wider range of applicants, including those who may be unemployed or have irregular employment situations. By removing these barriers, Merit Platinum ensures that more people have the opportunity to access credit.

Try before you commit

The Merit Platinum Card offers a unique and customer-friendly feature that sets it apart from other credit cards: a 7-day trial period. This allows you to test out the card and see if it meets your needs and expectations without any commitment. During this trial period, you can experience the card’s benefits and features firsthand, ensuring it aligns with your financial goals.

If, for any reason, you decide that the Merit Platinum Card isn’t the right fit for you, you can easily cancel within the 7-day period without incurring any fees. This risk-free trial period underscores the card’s flexibility and the company’s confidence in its product, providing you with peace of mind as you make your decision. What other credit card offers you the opportunity to try it out before fully committing?

Reach new heights with a credit limit increase

As a Merit Platinum cardholder, you’ll start with an impressive initial credit limit of up to $750. However, the benefits don’t stop there. This card offers you the opportunity to increase your credit limit over time, providing greater financial flexibility and purchasing power.

To qualify for a credit limit increase, demonstrate that you’re a responsible cardholder by consistently paying your bills on time and keeping your credit utilization ratio low, ideally below 30% of your available credit.

Get a 0% APR & no annual fees

One of the standout features of the Merit Platinum Card is its 0% APR, which means you won’t be charged any interest on your purchases. This is particularly beneficial for cardholders as it eliminates the worry of accumulating interest on unpaid balances, making it easier to manage and pay off your debt. Whether you’re making large purchases or simply using the card for everyday expenses, the 0% APR ensures that you can focus on repaying your principal balance without the added burden of interest charges.

Additionally, the Merit Platinum Card comes with no annual fees, making it an even more attractive option. Many credit cards aimed at consumers with low scores charge annual fees. These annual fees eat into your available credit limit and add to your financial obligations. With the Merit Platinum Card, you won’t have to worry about these extra costs, allowing you to maximize the full benefits of your credit limit.

Easy Approval and Good Products

“Very good prices and quality merchandise that doesn’t take long to get approved for.” Willie B., Supermoney Review

Enhanced data security

Protecting your personal information is crucial in today’s digital age, where data breaches and identity theft are increasingly common. The Merit Platinum Card prioritizes your security by including My Privacy Protection, a comprehensive service that offers robust identity theft protection and monitoring. With My Privacy Protection, you can rest assured that your personal information is being safeguarded around the clock.

This service actively monitors your credit report and alerts you to any suspicious activity or potential threats, enabling you to take swift action to protect your identity. In the event that your personal information is compromised, My Privacy Protection provides expert assistance to help you navigate the recovery process and minimize any potential damage.

In addition to monitoring, My Privacy Protection includes features such as credit report access, which allows you to stay informed about changes to your credit profile. This proactive approach helps you maintain control over your financial information and prevents unauthorized access.

By choosing the Merit Platinum Card, you are not only gaining a valuable financial tool but also investing in enhanced data security measures. This added layer of protection ensures that your identity and personal information remain secure, giving you peace of mind in an increasingly digital world.

Exclusive shopping power

The Merit Platinum Card offers exclusive shopping power, designed specifically for use at theHorizonOutlet.com. As a cardholder, you gain access to a wide array of high-quality products available only through this online retail store.

The Horizon Outlet features an extensive selection of items, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to update your wardrobe with the latest fashion trends, enhance your home with stylish décor and essential goods, find fun and educational toys for children, or upgrade your tech with cutting-edge electronics, theHorizonOutlet.com has you covered.

This exclusivity not only ensures a unique shopping experience but also provides you with the opportunity to take advantage of special deals and promotions available only to Merit Platinum cardholders. The curated collection of products at theHorizonOutlet.com is designed to meet a variety of tastes and needs, making it a convenient and comprehensive shopping destination.

Furthermore, using your Merit Platinum Card at theHorizonOutlet.com can help you manage your finances better. By focusing your spending on this single platform, you can more easily track your purchases and maintain control over your budget. This dedicated retail card encourages responsible spending habits while providing you with the exclusive benefits of shopping from a trusted and diverse online store.

Merit’s membership benefits

The Merit Platinum Card offers a host of additional benefits designed to help its members save money and enjoy greater convenience.

Prescription savings at your fingertips

Healthcare expenses can be a significant burden, but with the Merit Platinum Card, you can alleviate some of that stress through the My Universal RX program. This program provides substantial discounts on prescription medications at participating pharmacies. By using your Merit Platinum Card, you can easily access these savings and manage your healthcare costs more effectively.

Free roadside assistance

Another valuable benefit of the Merit Platinum Card is the inclusion of free roadside assistance. Whether you encounter a flat tire, need a jump start, or require towing services, Merit Platinum’s roadside assistance program is there to help. This service offers peace of mind, ensuring that you are never stranded or left to deal with vehicle issues on your own. The convenience and security provided by this benefit can be a significant relief during unexpected car troubles.

Legal assistance when you need it

Legal matters can be complex and costly, but Merit Platinum cardholders have access to My Legal Assistance, a service that provides guidance on a wide range of legal issues. Whether you need help with contracts, family law, or other legal matters, this service offers expert advice without additional expenses. This benefit ensures that you have the support you need to navigate legal challenges confidently.

What to watch out for with the Merit Platinum Card

Manageable monthly fee

The Merit Platinum Card comes with a membership fee of $14.77 per month, which translates to an annual cost of about $177.24. This fee is higher compared to some other credit cards on the market, making it essential for potential cardholders to evaluate their financial situation and usage habits. While this monthly fee may not be ideal for individuals on a tight budget or those who do not plan to use the card frequently, it’s important to consider the range of benefits that come with the Merit Platinum Card.

For many, the value of the card’s features—such as 0% APR, no annual fees, exclusive shopping power, and additional perks like prescription savings, free roadside assistance, and legal assistance—can outweigh the monthly fee. These benefits can provide significant savings and convenience, making the card a worthwhile investment for those who can fully utilize them.

However, it’s crucial to assess whether these advantages align with your personal financial goals and needs. If you anticipate frequent use of the card and take advantage of its various programs, the membership fee can be a manageable and justifiable expense. Conversely, if the card’s offerings do not match your requirements, it might be better to explore other options with lower fees. Carefully weighing the card’s benefits against its cost will help you make an informed decision about whether the Merit Platinum Card is the right fit for you.

Minimum monthly payment

While there are no interest charges or annual fees, Merit does still charge a minimum monthly payment. This is either 10% of the Horizon Outlet Account balance or $25 (or the entire Horizon Outlet Account balance if it’s less than $25)—whichever is greater. Every credit card charges a minimum monthly payment, so this is no surprise.

Limited usability

Another aspect to watch out for is the card’s limited usability. The Merit Platinum Card can only be used at theHorizonOutlet.com, restricting your purchasing options to the items available in their online catalog. This limitation means that if you’re looking for a versatile card that you can use at various retailers, the Merit Platinum Card may not meet your needs.

No rewards

Additionally, since the card is geared towards those with limited or poor credit, it may not be the best fit for individuals with established credit who are looking for rewards or cash-back programs. The lack of interest charges is a plus, but it’s important to maintain responsible spending habits to avoid overextending yourself financially.

Bottom line

The Merit Platinum Card isn’t your average credit card; it’s a unique retail card offered by Horizon Financial Services, providing exclusive access to its online catalog. Think of it as a VIP pass for an enhanced shopping experience.

The standout features of the Merit Platinum Card include that it offers an initial credit limit of up to $750 and charges no interest on purchases. The 0% APR makes it easier to manage your finances without the worry of accumulating interest charges.

Additionally, the card does not require a credit check, making it accessible to those with limited or poor credit histories. The application process is straightforward and quick, offering instant approval in many cases.

Furthermore, the Merit Platinum Card comes with a variety of membership benefits, such as discounts on prescription medications, free roadside assistance, and legal assistance. These additional perks add significant value to the card, enhancing your overall financial well-being.

In summary, the Merit Platinum Card is an excellent choice for those looking to improve their credit while enjoying exclusive shopping benefits. Its combination of a high credit limit, no interest charges, and accessibility make it a standout option.

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. Current is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. FDIC insurance up to $250,000 only covers the failure of an FDIC-insured bank. Certain conditions must be satisfied for pass-through deposit insurance coverage to apply. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card issued by Choice Financial Group, and the Current Visa® secured charge card issued by Cross River Bank, are both pursuant to licenses from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit or credit cards are accepted. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required. 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.

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. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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.

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. 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.

20. 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.

21. 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.

22. 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.

23. 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.

24. 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.

25. 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.

26. 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.

27. 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.

28. 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.

29. 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.

30. 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.

31. 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.

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

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

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

35. 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.

36. 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.

37. 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.

38. 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.