Did you know you can start building your credit without borrowing money from the bank or undergoing a credit check? You can do this with a secured credit card, such as our Gabriel Secured Card. But how can you build credit history with Secured Credit Cards without using the bank’s money? It’s straightforward, and I’ll explain how:
How Do Secured Credit Cards Work?
Secured credit cards require a security deposit as collateral. By depositing a small amount of money into your account, you receive a corresponding credit limit. This deposit acts as an insurance policy for the credit card company in case you miss payments or default on your balance. You can use this deposit to pay your monthly statements. The bank then reports your on-time payments to the credit bureaus, helping you establish good credit habits. Over time, this can lead to the bank offering you an unsecured credit card (a traditional credit card that allows you to pay later).
Requirements
The requirements for secured credit cards vary by bank. At Gabriel Money, we require the following:
- A valid ID (from the U.S. or any country)
- Proof of address
- A Social Security Number or ITIN
Once approved, you must make an initial deposit of at least $150, which will serve as your credit limit.
Why Choose the Gabriel Secured Card?
The Gabriel Secured Card is an excellent tool for starting your credit journey, even if you have no credit history. Unlike many other secured credit cards, we offer no APR rate or hidden fees. Additionally, while most secured credit cards have low limits, your limit with us is equal to your deposit.
Building Your Credit
When using a secured credit card, it’s essential to focus on paying your bills on time (your deposit serves as collateral to cover any missed payments) and keeping your balance low (maintaining a low utilization rate relative to your total credit). These actions demonstrate that you are a responsible credit user, potentially leading to higher credit limits. Other factors also influence your credit score; check out our latest blog for more information: [link].
Overall, you can build credit history using secured credit cards, which are a great way for first-time credit users to start building their credit without the risk of going into credit card debt, opening up a door to the world of credit cards. However, it’s crucial to use them responsibly to avoid falling into debt.
To learn more about out Gabriel Secured Card click here!
JadyMejia
