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, in turn, 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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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% cashback

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 lets you convert transactions into easy EMIs and access cash from ATMs worldwide.

SBI Advantage Plus Credit Card

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.

SBI Unnati Credit Card

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. It has no annual fee and lets you withdraw cash up to the total credit limit.

Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card

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.

Kotak Mahindra Aqua Gold Credit Card

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. It has a modest annual fee, and the interest rate varies based on your credit profile and the bank’s discretion.

HDFC Money-Back Credit Card

Rupicard

The Rupicard targets those with very poor credit and requires only a minimal FD to start. It offers lifelong membership with no annual fees and includes a cash-back reward on all transactions, increasing the value of your spending.

Rupicard

Documents Required for Poor Credit Score Credit Cards

The required documentation may vary slightly 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: You’ll need valid government-issued identification, such as a passport, driver’s license, or Aadhaar card, 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: Lenders often require recent bank statements to assess your financial behavior and existing financial obligations.
  • Security Deposit Proof: For secured credit cards, you need proof of the deposit or the fixed deposit receipt, as it serves as collateral against the credit limit.

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 utilization rates, and limited credit history.

Improving a bad credit score is achievable. Effective strategies include making timely payments, reducing your debt, 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: Prioritize 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 pay on time.
  • 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 benefits like cash back, a rewards program, or free credit score monitoring.
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Written By
Amrita Sinha
Amrita Sinha
Financial Content Writer
Amrita Sinha comes with a background in journalism and mass communication, drawing from her roots in journalism, she has found her voice in the world of finance. As an accomplished writer, she specialises in Financial Services, Mutual Funds, Loan Assessments, Banking & Loan Products. She has established herself as a reliable expert in the field, offering valuable advice to those looking to navigate the various aspects of personal finance.
Amit Prakash Singh
Co-Founder, Square Yards & Chief Business Officer, Urban Money
Amit Prakash Singh is the Chief Business Officer at Urban Money. With over nine years of experience at Square Capital, he has played a crucial role in establishing it as one of India's premier loan advisory services. Amit's deep financial insights and extensive knowledge have driven significant business growth and strategic advancements. He has successfully built and managed large sales teams, optimised costs, and created leaders within the industry. Amit's financial expertise and strategic vision are key to the ongoing success and expansion of Square Yards and Urban Money.

Last Updated: 25th September 2026

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 tothose  with low scores.

Which credit card offers the simplest approval process?

Secured credit cards, such as the Rupicard, generally offer the easiest approval because 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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