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Credit Card for Low CIBIL Score
Dealing with a low CIBIL score can feel overwhelming. Often, life throws curveballs like medical emergencies or job losses that can lead to financial difficulties and, as a result, a poor credit rating. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of not knowing enough about how credit works. If you find yourself in this situation, you’re not alone. We’ve put together this guide to help. Here, you’ll find a selection of credit cards designed specifically for those working to improve their credit scores. We aim to give you the tools and information you need to make informed choices about credit cards that can help you start rebuilding your financial health. Let’s explore your options together.
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Table of Content
6 Credit Cards for Low or No Cibil Score
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Interest Rate | Security Deposit Required | Additional Benefits |
| SBI Advantage Plus Credit Card | Rs. 500 | 27% p.a. | Yes, up to 85% of FD | Flexipay, global ATM access |
| SBI Unnati Credit Card | None for 4 years, then Rs. 499 | 30% p.a. | Yes, against FD over Rs. 2.5 lakh | Contactless payments, Flexipay |
| Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card | None | 34.49% p.a. | Yes, up to 80% of FD | 1% fuel surcharge waiver, full cash withdrawal up to credit limit |
| Kotak Mahindra Aqua Gold Credit Card | None | 35.88% p.a. | Yes, up to 80% of FD | Fuel and railway surcharge waivers |
| HDFC Money-Back Credit Card | Rs. 500 | Varies | No | Cashback on spends, SmartEMI |
| Rupicard | None | N/A | Yes, minimum INR 5,000 FD | Lifelong free membership, 0.5% cash back |
SBI Advantage Plus Credit Card
This card is ideal for building or improving your credit score. It is secured against an FD and offers a credit limit of up to 85% of the deposit. The card includes features like Flexipay, which allows you to convert your transactions into easy EMIs and access cash from ATMs around the world.

SBI Unnati Credit Card
With no annual fee for the first four years, the SBI Unnati card is a good starter option for those new to credit. It requires a fixed deposit but offers benefits like contactless payments and the ability to convert spending into EMIs with Flexipay.

Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
This easy credit card provides a credit limit of up to 80% of your FD value and includes perks like a 1% fuel surcharge waiver. There is no annual fee, and it offers the flexibility of withdrawing cash up to the total credit limit.

Kotak Mahindra Aqua Gold Credit Card
This card is secured against your FD and offers a credit limit of up to 80% of the deposit. Benefits include a fuel surcharge waiver for transactions between Rs. 500 and Rs. 3,500 and a railway surcharge waiver for bookings made on the IRCTC website.

HDFC Money-Back Credit Card
This card offers benefits like cash back on every expenditure and the option to convert large purchases into EMIs with SmartEMI. There is a modest annual fee, and the interest rate varies depending on your credit profile and the bank’s discretion.

Rupicard
The Rupicard is targeted at those with very poor credit, requiring only a minimal FD to start. It offers lifelong membership without annual fees and includes a cash-back reward on all transactions, enhancing the value of your expenditures.

Documents Required for Poor Credit Score Credit Cards
The documentation required may vary slightly from a standard credit card when applying for a credit card with a poor credit score. Here’s a look at the typical documents you’ll need:
- Proof of Identity: Valid government-issued identification such as a passport, driver’s license, or Aadhar card is required to verify your identity.
- Proof of Residence: Utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements can serve as proof of your current residence.
- Income Proof: While income criteria might be less stringent for secured credit cards, you may still need to provide recent pay slips, tax returns, or bank statements to demonstrate your ability to manage credit.
- Bank Statements: Recent bank statements are often required to assess your financial behaviour and existing financial obligations.
- Security Deposit Proof: For secured credit cards, proof of the deposit or the fixed deposit receipt is necessary, as this serves as collateral against the credit limit provided.
Understanding a Bad Credit Score
A bad credit score reflects past financial difficulties or poor management of credit resources, which can impede your ability to obtain loans. Credit scores generally range from 300 to 900, and scores below 580 are considered poor.
A poor credit score can restrict one’s access to financial products and lead to higher interest rates. Common causes of a bad credit score include late payments, loan defaults, high credit card utilisation rates, and limited credit history.
Improving a bad credit score is achievable. Effective strategies include making timely payments, reducing the amount of debt you owe, and avoiding new credit inquiries, which can increase your score. You can consistently enhance your credit score over time by managing these aspects.
Selecting the Best Credit Cards for Poor Credit
When searching for a credit card with a bad credit history, choosing the right one can significantly impact your financial rehabilitation. Here’s how to choose a credit card if you have poor credit:
- Consider Secured Credit Cards: These cards require a security deposit, which often serves as your credit limit. They are easier to get with a low credit score and can help you build credit if used responsibly.
- Look for Low Fees: Prioritise cards with low annual fees, no application fees, and reasonable interest rates. Avoid cards that charge high fees relative to their credit limits.
- Check for Credit Reporting: Ensure the card issuer reports to all major credit bureaus. Regular reporting of your credit activity helps build your credit score when you make timely payments.
- Evaluate the Approval Odds: Some credit cards are specifically designed for individuals with poor credit and advertise higher approval odds. Opt for these cards to increase your chances of approval.
- Review Additional Benefits: While your options may be limited, look for cards that offer some form of benefits like cash back, a rewards program, or free credit score monitoring.


Last Updated: 28th April 2025
FAQs
What is the minimum credit score required to obtain a credit card?
Some credit cards, especially secured ones, might not require a minimum credit score, making them accessible even to those with low scores.
Which credit card offers the simplest approval process?
Secured credit cards, like the Rupicard, generally offer the easiest approval since they are backed by a fixed deposit.
What is the upper limit for a poor credit score?
A poor credit score typically tops out at 579.
What is the quickest method to obtain a credit card?
Applying for instant approval credit cards online, especially those that offer pre-approval, is the fastest way to get a credit card.
Which type of credit card is considered superior?
The best type of credit card depends on individual financial needs, but rewards and cashback cards are popular for their benefits.
Is it possible to receive a credit card within a single day?
Yes, instant approval credit cards can potentially be obtained in a day if you apply online and meet the issuer’s criteria.
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