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Key takeaways

  • The First Digital Mastercard® is tailored for individuals looking to establish or rebuild their credit.
  • The unsecured card offers perks like a 1% cash back on eligible purchases, zero liability protection, and instant approval.
  • Potential cardholders should be aware of the initial fees and high interest rates associated with the card.

Getting approved for a credit card can be tough when you have bad credit. And not having a credit card makes it all the harder to improve your credit score. That’s where First Digital Mastercard® comes into play. First Digital is a card issued by Synovus Bank and designed specifically for people with poor to limited credit history who want to repair their scores.

First Digital Mastercard® makes it easy to obtain a line of credit without having to put down a security deposit. And as a Mastercard, you’ll get additional benefits like zero liability protection and the ability to use it anywhere Mastercard is accepted. Perhaps best of all, it offers cash back rewards, a rare perk among credit cards aimed at people with bad credit.

Keep reading and check out if First Digital Mastercard® is right for you.

What we like about First Digital Mastercard®

Earn 1% Cash Back Rewards

Who doesn’t love a bit of cash back? The First Digital Mastercard® lets you earn 1% cash back rewards on eligible purchases. First Digital automatically enrolls all cardholders in the program, so you don’t have to lift a finger. After six months of responsible use, you can start redeeming your cash back. This perk is a pleasant surprise, especially for a credit-building card where rewards are often sparse.

Low Credit Scores Welcome

Many credit cards set the bar high when it comes to credit scores. But, First Digital Mastercard® promises that they may approve you even when others won’t. It’s an inclusive card that seeks to empower consumers, irrespective of their past credit decisions.

Be Approved in 60 Seconds

In an era where everything is instant, waiting for credit card approval can be nerve-wracking. But not here! First Digital Mastercard® offers a rapid approval process, in some cases as short as 60 seconds. Once they approve you, they will ship your card in 3 to 7 business days.

Earning Credit

“So far so good learned a lot about credit, didn’t know I didn’t have any. An the group took a chance on me. Thanks you just don’t know how greatful I am.” Shannon Fontes

Reports to All Three Credit Bureaus

To effectively build or repair credit, your credit card issuer must report your monthly payments and card activity to all three major credit bureaus: TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian. The First Digital Mastercard® does just that, ensuring your responsible usage gets the attention it deserves.

Complete with Mastercard Features

Being a credit-building card doesn’t mean skimping on features. As part of the Mastercard network, First Digital is able to offer users the perks of an unsecured Mastercard.

Mastercard Global Service™ provides emergency assistance whether you’re home or abroad. You can request an emergency replacement if you lose or someone steals your card, seek help using foreign ATMs, or take out cash advances.

Zero Liability Protection ensures that they won’t hold you responsible for unauthorized transactions. Simply report them promptly, so Mastercard and Synovus Bank can take care of the rest.

Complimentary Identity Protection alters you of any suspicious activity, provides proactive identity monitoring, and helps protect your personal data from potential threats.

Increase Your Credit Line

With responsible usage and consistent on-time payments, you can request a credit limit increase after 12 months. A higher credit limit will give you more flexibility, help lower your credit utilization ratio, and further boost your credit score.

What to watch out for with First Digital Mastercard®

High APR

It’s worth noting that the First Digital Mastercard® does come with a high fixed APR of 35.99%. Credit cards designed for consumers with low credit scores commonly have high APRs like this one. To avoid it, simply pay off your balances in full each month. That way your score will improve and you won’t have to pay any interest.

Cost of Credit-Building

Building or rebuilding credit often comes with associated costs. The First Digital Mastercard® is no exception. To use this card and benefit from its credit-building aspects you will have to pay a one time activation fee of $95, an annual fee of $75 for the first year and $48 every year after that, and a monthly fee of $8.25, waived the first year. These are simply the fees Synovus Bank tacks on to protect itself as consumers with lower credit scores are more risky clients. Consider the costs before you apply and know that most unsecured credit cards designed for people with limited to poor credit will come with fees.

Building My Credit Easily

“I love my credit card It will help me build my credit backup and I have had no problems at all I recommend this Credit card To anybody.” Linda McFarland

Final Thoughts

The First Digital Mastercard® offers a quick solution to turn your credit around. You can easily secure approval even with less-than-stellar credit, start repairing your credit immediately, and earn cash back rewards. First Digital Mastercard® also means you enjoy the impressive reach of the Mastercard payment network and benefits. Chances are, wherever you travel within the United States, your First Digital Mastercard® will be accepted.

That said, First Digital has its detractions too like a high APR and additional fees. As always, potential cardholders should assess their financial situation and habits before opting for any credit card. But for those who want to repair credit and enjoy cash back rewards, this card might just be the one 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.