Build Credit the Smart Way With the Self Visa® Secured Credit Card
If you’ve been turned down for credit cards—or don’t want to risk another hard inquiry—the Self Visa® Secured Credit Card offers a smarter path forward. Instead of requiring a large upfront deposit, Self rewards you with access to a secured credit card after you’ve already started building savings and positive credit history.
This isn’t just another secured card. It’s a credit-building system designed to help you move forward even if you’re starting from zero.
How the Self Credit-Building System Works
Self uses a unique two-step approach that helps you build credit before you even get the card—then accelerates your progress once you do.
Step 1: Start With a Credit Builder Account
You begin by choosing an affordable monthly payment plan—typically between $25 and $150 per month. These payments go into a secure savings account (a certificate of deposit) held in your name.
Each on-time payment is reported to all three major credit bureaus, helping you establish positive installment credit history.
Step 2: Unlock the Secured Credit Card
Once you’ve:
- Saved at least $100
- Made three on-time payments
You become eligible to open the Self Visa® Secured Credit Card. Your saved funds act as the security deposit—no new cash required.
Now you’re building:
- Installment credit from the loan
- Revolving credit from the card
Most people never get this opportunity in one streamlined program.
Why the Self Visa® Secured Card Stands Out
✔ No Hard Credit Check
Once you’re eligible, opening the card doesn’t require a new credit pull.
✔ Build Two Types of Credit at Once
This is critical for improving your overall credit profile—not just your score.
✔ Reports to All Three Credit Bureaus
Your responsible use is visible where it matters.
✔ Low Barrier to Entry
No $200–$300 upfront deposit like traditional secured cards.
✔ Easy Management
Track progress, payments, and card usage directly from the Self mobile app.
Who This Card Is Ideal For
The Self Visa® Secured Credit Card is a strong fit if you:
- Have no credit or limited credit history
- Are rebuilding after late payments, collections, or denials
- Don’t have cash available for a large security deposit
- Want a structured, guided way to improve credit responsibly
If traditional banks keep saying “no,” Self offers a realistic alternative.
How to Get the Best Results With Self
To maximize your credit-building results:
- Always pay on time—every payment counts
- Keep card usage low (below 30% utilization is ideal)
- Use the card regularly but responsibly
- Automate payments through the app
- Monitor your credit progress as it improves
Consistency is what turns this tool into real results.
How Self Compares to Other Secured Credit Cards
Many secured cards promise credit building—but most require large upfront deposits or additional approval hurdles.
Traditional secured cards often demand $200+ immediately.
Some fintech options require direct deposit or banking eligibility.
Others still run hard credit checks.
Self is different.
With Self, you earn access to your secured card by building savings and credit first—making it one of the most accessible credit-building solutions available.
The Bottom Line
The Self Visa® Secured Credit Card isn’t just a card—it’s a system designed to help you move forward even if your credit history is thin or damaged. By combining saving, installment credit, and responsible card use, Self gives you a practical, low-risk way to rebuild your financial foundation.
Ready to take control of your credit?
Opening a Self Credit Builder Account is the first step—and it could lead to better approval odds, stronger scores, and more financial options down the road.
Your credit journey doesn’t have to stay stuck. Self gives you a way forward.
Program Specifications
- Intro APR (Purchases): N/A
- Intro APR (Transfers): N/A
- Regular APR: 27.49% (Variable)
- Annual Fee: $0 ($25 Annual Fee after the first year.)^
- Recommended Credit Score: No Credit, New to Credit, Limited Credit, Bad, Poor
- Rewards: N/A
- Cash Advance APR: N/A
- Cash Advance Fee: N/A
- Cash Grade Period: N/A
- Late Payment Fee: $15
- Overlimit Fee: N/A
- Return Check Fee: $15
- Foreign Transaction Fee: N/A
- Balance Transfer Fee: N/A
The secured Self Visa® Credit Card is issued by Lead Bank, Sunrise Banks, N.A., or First Century Bank, N.A., each Member FDIC.
Qualification for the secured Self Visa® Credit Card is based on meeting eligibility requirements, including income and expense requirements and establishment of security interest. Criteria subject to change.
^$0 annual fee for the first year only, $25 annual fee thereafter. Variable APR of 27.49%. Offer valid for new customers only.
