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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 credit score through responsible management, timely payments, and low utilization is fundamental to qualifying for cards with higher limits.
- Regularly update your income information and use your card responsibly to improve your chances of getting a limit increase.
$2000 credit card limit with no deposit required may seem like a dream for many consumers looking to increase their score. Most cards for bad credit give significantly lower limits.
Only a handful of cards 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 with these cards.
Jump to:
- Unsecured Cards
- What Is The Easiest Card to Get Approved with Bad Credit?
- How To Increase the Approval Odds?
- What Is The Easiest Credit Card to Get?
- Is a 2k Credit Limit Good?
- What Credit Card Can I Get with Bad Credit and No Deposit?
- How to Increase Your Chances of Getting the Maximum Credit Card Limit?
- How Can I Get a Credit Limit Increase?
- Bottom Line
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 cards 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 these cards promise to double your limit 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 $2000 limit and see if one is right for you.
Fortiva® Mastercard®
Fortiva® Mastercard® is a good option option for beginners or those with fair scores. It offers a high starting limit of $1,000, cash back rewards on all purchases, and the option to prequalify before you apply.
Fortiva® Mastercard® is designed for individuals looking to improve their score without having to tie up money in a security deposit. Offering an initial limit of up to $1,000 and a chance to bring it all the way to $2,000 with responsible use, the Fortiva® Mastercard® does not shy away from applicants with low scores. It also allows interested applicants to prequalify before they apply.
It reports payment history to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, ensuring that every on time payment contributes positively to the cardholder’s score. It also offers free access to your monthly score so you can track your progress.
Fortiva® Mastercard® offers cash back rewards up to 3% on eligible purchases. Earn rewards on everyday products like gas, groceries, utilities, and more.
Though it comes with an annual fee and potential for a high APR, the absence of a required deposit make the rewards card an attractive option.
Surge® Platinum Mastercard®
Surge® Platinum Mastercard® is a strong option for people with low scores. It’s easy to get, provides a higher line of up to $1,000, and the chance to double it after six months of responsible use.
Surge® Platinum Mastercard® is one of the best unsecured card options for anyone looking to increase their score. It accepts applicants with very low scores and is quick and easy to apply for. Surge sends application results in seconds and allows you to prequalify without damaging your score.
It offers an initial line of up to $1,000 with a chance to double it to $2,000 after only six months of responsible use. Make on time payments, keep your utilization low, and customers should see a limit increase.
The unsecured card offers a few benefits including waiving the monthly maintenance fee for the first year, free monthly score access, and zero liability for fraudulent charges. Pay a one-time fee of $9.95 and get a premium card design.
Surge reports to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, aiding cardholders in building a positive payment history with each timely payment. While the card does impose fees and charges a high APR (if there’s a balance), its accessibility and the opportunity for score improvement can outweigh these considerations for many users.
Reflex® Platinum Mastercard®
Reflex® Platinum Mastercard® is a rare card for consumers with low scores. It is easy to qualify for, has a total limit of up to $2,000, and is an excellent place to start rebuilding your score.
Reflex® Platinum Mastercard® is Surge’s twin. The only differences between the two are Reflex accepts applicants with no credit history and it does not have a premium design option. Like its counterpart, Reflex offers a limit of up to $1,000 initially for qualifying applicants and will double it to $2,000 after only six months of timely payments.
The card’s primary allure is that it provides instant decisions on applications (in most cases). It’s low qualification criteria make it easy to get even with a low score.
Reflex offers monthly reporting to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion and so on time payments and low utilization can cause scores to increase. Enroll in electronic statements for free monthly scores and ability to track progress.
The card does come with an annual fee and higher APR which are common for subprime cards.
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 $2000 limit guaranteed approval. While approval isn’t 100% guaranteed 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.
Our favorite secured cards for low scores are Current’s Build Card and Chime’s Secured Credit Builder Visa®. The best part, neither requires a security deposit!
Current Build Card
Current’s Build Card provides a unique path for people with low scores to raise them. It doesn’t require a security deposit or hard inquiry. But you must have a Current Spend Account to apply.
The Current Build Card is a helpful tool for anyone who wants to improve their score and avoid going into debt. There is no minimum score requirement nor does it ask for a minimum security deposit. The money in the Current Spend account is the money you use.
Current does not charge annual fees – there are very few fees and no interest charges at all! Enable AutoPay and Current automatically pays the bill on time every month so there’s never a late or missed payment.
It also sends real-time transaction alerts, provides budgeting tools, and the ability to freeze and unfreeze the card instantly all on its mobile app. The once catch is it only reports to TransUnion.
Chime Secured Credit Builder Visa®
The Chime Secured Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is a rare find. You don’t have to undergo a hard inquiry to apply, there’s no minimum security deposit requirement, nor is there an annual fee or interest charges. If these perks appeal to you, it’s definitely worth a look.
The Chime Secured Credit Builder Visa is an innovative solution for those aiming to enhance their score without the traditional hurdles. Unlike many secured cards, it requires no credit check or minimum security deposit to open making it accessible for people with low scores who do not have extra cash for a security deposit.
Cardholders must have a Chime checking account and receive qualifying direct deposits to be eligible. This is because Chime considers the funds in the checking account as a security deposit. Unlike most secured cards, it allows cardholders to use those same funds to pay their bill at the end of the month. Moreover, Chime offers a Safer Credit Building feature. Turn it on and it will automatically pay the bill avoiding late or missed payments.
Chime reports to all three major credit bureaus, charges no annual fee or interest, making it a cost-effective way and easy way to improve credit.
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 which cards are within reach.
New
When you prequalify for a card 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 the card.
Become an authorized user
Becoming an authorized user on someone else’s card can get you access to a higher limit immediately, help build your credit 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 credit you can use.
It’s important to be respectful and trust each other since the primary owner is responsible for all the charges on the card.
Find a Cosigner
A cosigner with a good score can significantly increase your approval odds. Your cosigner is equally responsible for all payments on the card reducing the risk for the issuer. 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 easily get approved for a card with a high initial 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. Experian Boost, StellarFi, and other programs report your rent, utility, and phone bills so you get credit for bills you’re already paying. Another option is to take out a credit builder loan. Brigit offers one with monthly payments as low as $1! 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 limits.
Find the card you want and apply today!
What Is The Easiest Credit Card to Get?
While there are no credit cards with a $2000 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. These cards 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’s on your card. The advantage to these cards 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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Is a 2k Credit Limit Good?
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 cards for subprime credit scores 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.
What Credit Card Can I Get with Bad Credit and No Deposit?
Finding credit cards with a $2000 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 be a valuable tool to boost your score. Here’s a list of options that might fit the bill:
- Fortiva Mastercard: Offering automatic reviews for limit increase opportunities, this card is a solid choice for those with poor or fair credit. It’s aimed at improving your score all the while giving you cash back rewards on eligible purchases. While starting limits might be lower, disciplined spending and timely payment can help you increase your limit.
- Surge Platinum Mastercard: Designed for those with less-than-perfect scores, this unsecured card offers the chance to raise your score without the need for a security deposit. While it might not start with a $2000 limit you can double your limit in only six months with responsible use.
- Reflex Platinum Mastercard: Known for its easy application process and quick response, this card is another unsecured option for those rebuilding their score. It doesn’t require a deposit, and while it comes with certain fees, it can be a stepping stone towards improved creditworthiness.
While these cards may not initially offer a $2000 limit, they represent a starting point for individuals with bad or fair credit who want a card that does not require a deposit. Responsible use, including timely payments and keeping balances low, can gradually improve your score so you can apply for cards to require good scores and offer higher limits.
Find even more cards for bad credit!
Check out Credit Cards with $500 Limit – Guaranteed Approval
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting the Maximum Credit Card Limit?
High credit limits are within reach. It simply takes some strategic steps to improve your chances of securing one when you have a poor or fair score.
Apply strategically
Research before you apply. Look for a card issuer known for offering generous initial 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. 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.
- Pay your bills on time
- Use less than 30% of your available credit
- Reduce your debt to income ratio
- Do not apply for multiple cards at once
- Keep old cards open
A higher score makes you a more attractive candidate for higher limits. As your score improves, so do your approval odds.
Find more ways to improve your score on MoneyFor.
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 how much you earn per month.
While no strategy can guarantee approval instantly for credit cards with $2000 limits, combining these approaches can significantly improve your chances of securing a higher limit.
Leverage your relationship
If you’ve had a card for a while and have established a history 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.
How Can I Get a Credit Limit Increase?
There are various ways you can increase your limit. Some suggestions get you a higher limit immediately while others take time. Here are five strategies to consider:
1. 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.
2. Request an Increase
You can request an increase for an unsecured card online or over the phone from your issuer. Don’t hesitate to ask if you’ve demonstrated at least six months of responsible credit behavior, such as making timely payments and maintaining low balances. 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 higher limit. Whatever you do, do not sound desperate.
3. 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 higher limits to people with poor scores and have few or low annual or hidden fees.
4. Become an Authorized User
Being added as an authorized user on someone else’s card lets you access their available credit. This doesn’t directly increase your limit on existing cards but increases your cumulative limit. Plus, your score benefits from the primary cardholder’s responsible behavior. Take advantage of this perk to move your score into the good category so you’ll be eligible for better cards with higher limits and even rewards in the future.
5. Improve Your Credit Score
Ultimately, the most effective way to qualify for a higher credit limit is by improving your score. This involves paying down existing debt, making all your payments on time, and keeping your credit 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.
6. Wait for a Limit Increase
Lots of unsecured card issuers review payment performance and reward responsible cardholders with higher limits. All three cards we’ve listed Fortiva® Mastercard®, Surge® Platinum Mastercard®, and Reflex® Platinum Mastercard® review accounts periodically and offer limit increases to reliable customers.
Bottom Line
You may be able to credit cards with a $2000 limit even without a good score. Secured cards are easy to get – some skip the credit check entirely. If you have your heart set on an unsecured credit 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. It takes time and patience but you will have access to better-quality cards, higher limits, lower costs, and more generous cash back rewards.
