Have a fair credit score and want to take it to the next level? You’re not alone.
Millions of Americans are in the “fair” credit range — typically between 580 and 669 — and looking for the right tools to improve their financial standing.
The good news is that there are credit cards designed specifically for people with fair credit.
These cards can help you build a solid payment history, increase your credit limit over time, and even offer rewards — if you use them responsibly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for, the best options available today, and how to use them strategically to boost your credit score.
What is considered fair credit?
Most scoring models (including FICO and VantageScore) define fair credit as a score between 580 and 669.
If you’re in this range, you likely:
- Have a limited credit history or a few late payments
- Use a significant portion of your available credit
- Are recovering from financial missteps (collections, delinquencies)
The good news? You’re not far from the “good” range (670+), and with the right card and habits, you can get there faster than you think.
Why credit cards matter for fair credit
Credit cards are more than just a way to pay — they’re a tool for building your financial reputation.
When used wisely, they help improve key components of your credit score:
- Payment history (35%): Making on-time payments builds trust with lenders
- Credit utilization (30%): Keeping balances low helps show responsible usage
- Length of credit history (15%): Holding a card over time boosts your average age
- Credit mix and new accounts (20%): Adds variety to your credit profile
With a fair score, you may not qualify for premium cards — but you can get a starter card that helps you build credit while offering practical benefits.
Top features to look for in a card for fair credit
Not all cards are created equal. When choosing a card in this credit tier, prioritize:
- No annual fee: Don’t pay just to carry the card unless it offers exceptional benefits
- Free credit score tracking: Helps you monitor your progress
- Path to credit limit increases: Some cards review your account after a few months of on-time payments
- Reporting to all 3 credit bureaus: Ensures your progress is tracked everywhere
- Low or no deposit: Some cards are unsecured, even for fair credit
Now, let’s look at the best credit cards available for fair credit as of now.
1. Capital One Platinum Credit Card
- Annual fee: $0
- Rewards: None
- Credit requirement: Fair credit
This no-frills card is perfect for someone rebuilding or establishing credit. No rewards, but also no hidden fees.
After six months of on-time payments, you may qualify for a credit limit increase.
Why it’s great:
- Easy to qualify with fair credit
- No annual fee
- Reports to all major bureaus
2. Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Annual fee: $39
- Rewards: 1.5% cash back on every purchase
- Credit requirement: Fair to good
If you want to earn rewards while building credit, this card offers one of the highest flat cash-back rates in the fair credit tier.
Just make sure the rewards outweigh the annual fee.
Why it’s great:
- Unlimited 1.5% cash back
- Credit limit increase reviews after six months
- Access to credit score and budgeting tools
3. Mission Lane Visa Credit Card
- Annual fee: $0–$59 (based on credit)
- Rewards: None
- Credit requirement: Fair credit
Designed for those rebuilding or establishing credit, this card is easy to manage and has no hidden fees.
The annual fee depends on your credit profile.
Why it’s great:
- Transparent terms and real-time alerts
- Easy mobile app for tracking balances
- Can help you transition to better cards
4. Discover it Secured Credit Card
- Annual fee: $0
- Rewards: 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 per quarter), 1% on other purchases
- Deposit required: Yes, minimum $200
Technically a secured card, but it’s great for fair credit. Offers real rewards, automatic credit limit reviews, and Discover matches your first year’s cashback as a bonus.
Why it’s great:
- Best secured card with cashback
- Free FICO score updates
- Potential upgrade to unsecured Discover card
5. Petal 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa Credit Card
- Annual fee: $0
- Rewards: Up to 10% cash back with select merchants
- Credit requirement: Fair credit or limited history
Petal uses alternative underwriting methods (like income and bank history), making it a great option if your credit score doesn’t tell the full story.
No deposit required, and you can track your credit improvement in the app.
Why it’s great:
- No annual fees or security deposit
- Helpful mobile tools and credit tracking
- Modern, easy-to-use interface
How to use your card to build credit fast
Getting the card is just the beginning. Here’s how to use it strategically:
- Pay on time — every time: Even one late payment can drop your score significantly
- Keep your balance low: Aim to use no more than 30% of your credit limit
- Don’t open too many cards: Multiple hard inquiries can hurt your score
- Track your score monthly: Use apps or tools provided by your issuer
- Set alerts: Stay on top of due dates and balance limits
When should you upgrade your card?
After 6–12 months of responsible use, check your credit score. If it’s improved significantly (above 670), you may qualify for a better card with:
- Higher credit limit
- No annual fee
- Better rewards
- Lower interest rates
Contact your issuer to ask for an upgrade — or apply for a new card that fits your improved profile.
Final thoughts
If you’re working with a fair credit score, you’re in a powerful position — not at the bottom, and not yet at the top.
The right credit card can be your stepping stone to better rates, stronger financial opportunities, and long-term security.
Each of the best credit cards for fair credit listed here offers a chance to build credit the smart way.
Choose the one that fits your habits, avoid fees, pay on time, and stay consistent.
With patience and strategy, you’ll be on your way to “good” — and beyond — in no time.