The 5 Easiest Credit Cards to Get Approved For This Year

If you’ve been turned down for credit cards in the past, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Whether you’re just starting out, rebuilding after financial trouble, or working with a fair credit score, there are still solid options out there. In fact, some credit cards are designed with easier approval in mind, offering a practical stepping stone to help you build or rebuild your credit.

As a former credit counselor, I’ve helped hundreds of people find the right entry-point cards that offer real opportunity without too much red tape. Below are five of the easiest credit cards to get approved for in 2025—along with some tips to boost your chances of success.

1. Discover it® Secured Credit Card

Best for: Earning cash back while building credit

If you're new to credit or rebuilding, the Discover it® Secured card is one of the most forgiving entry points out there. It requires a refundable security deposit (starting at $200), but in return, you’ll earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 per quarter) and 1% on everything else.

What really makes this card stand out? After seven months, Discover starts automatically reviewing your account for a possible upgrade to an unsecured version.

Highlights:

No annual fee

Reports to all 3 credit bureaus

Free access to your FICO® score

Cash back rewards on everyday spending

2. Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card

Best for: Low-deposit approval for people with poor or limited credit

Most secured cards require a full deposit equal to your credit line. Not this one. Depending on your credit profile, you may qualify for a $200 credit limit with just a $49, $99, or $200 refundable deposit. And because Capital One reports to all three major credit bureaus, responsible use will help you build credit fast.

Highlights:

No annual fee

Possible upgrade to unsecured after 6 months

Flexible deposit options

3. Mission Lane® Visa® Credit Card

Best for: Unsecured approval with fair credit or recent credit recovery

Mission Lane specializes in giving people second chances—and they do it without requiring a security deposit. If your credit score is in the 600s or you’ve recently recovered from a hit to your credit, this card is one of the most accessible unsecured options out there.

They also offer a quick online prequalification process with no impact to your credit score.

Highlights:

No security deposit required

Transparent terms—no hidden fees

Credit line increases possible with on-time payments

4. OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card

Best for: No credit check approval

Worried about your credit report holding you back? The OpenSky Plus card skips the credit check entirely. Instead, your approval is based on your ability to provide a refundable deposit (starting at $300). That makes it ideal if you’ve been denied elsewhere or need a fresh start.

Unlike many competitors, OpenSky also provides regular tips to help you build credit faster.

Highlights:

No credit check

No annual fee

Reports monthly to all 3 credit bureaus

5. Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card

Best for: No credit history, no interest charges

This isn’t a traditional credit card—it’s a secured card tied to your Chime Checking Account. There’s no minimum deposit required, and you won’t pay interest because your spending is limited to the amount you’ve already moved into your Credit Builder account.

It doesn’t check your credit to apply, and it won’t let you accidentally rack up debt.

Highlights:

No credit check or minimum score required

No annual fee or interest

No risk of overspending

Designed to help build credit with on-time payments

Tips to Boost Approval Odds

Even for “easy approval” cards, a few smart moves can make a big difference:

Prequalify whenever possible. This lets you check your chances without a hard inquiry.

Keep balances low. If you’re already using credit, pay down existing cards before applying.

Apply with purpose. Avoid applying for too many cards at once, which can hurt your score.

Check for errors. Review your credit report and dispute any incorrect information.

Final Thoughts

Getting approved for a credit card doesn’t have to feel impossible. These five cards are excellent entry points for people with fair, poor, or no credit. The key is choosing the one that fits your goals—whether that’s rebuilding your score, establishing credit history, or just getting your foot in the door.

Stick with it, use your new card wisely, and you’ll be surprised how fast your credit can turn around.