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Research: How to get a credit card with bad credit history - Credit-Land.com

Credit cards are the most heavily used replacement for cash at present. With a multitude of companies offering credit card accounts, and the number of users increasing on a daily basis, it is one of the mainstays of the finance industry. While credit card companies are constantly on the lookout for new users, and set up attractive offers and deals to lure new customers, it can be very difficult to get a credit card if you have the misfortune of having a bad credit history.

Credit card companies always make a careful appraisal of an applicant??s financial past and present. Credit records are put under careful scrutiny to establish the financial stability and reliability of a prospective customer. If you possess a tarnish free credit history, you will face no problems. But for people who have made financial mistakes and spoiled their credit record in the past, it is very difficult to receive approval for a credit card. It is always recommended that you clean up your act before applying for a credit card, but there are other solutions too. There are companies which specifically offer credit cards to people with a bad credit history, and though it is a risky option to opt for, you might end up significantly improving your credit score if you play your cards right.

Explain Yourself

While most credit card companies will reject an applicant with bad credit history, there are some companies, however, which consider applications from customers whose credit record contains minor problems. If you are honest and explain the circumstances that led to a drop in your credit score, you stand a better chance of being selected. These companies allow you to include a small statement in which you can clearly explain what caused a drop in your credit rating. The assessing personnel will read the statement and take it into consideration while making their decision.

Get A Secured Card

Another option is to go for a secured credit card. Many companies offer this as an alternative solution for people who have a bad credit history. For a secured credit card, you have to deposit a pre-decided amount into a standard savings account. Following that, you are given a credit card that has a credit limit equal to or a little higher than the amount of money that you deposited. You are supposed to maintain the savings account balance so that it doesn`t dip below a prearranged minimum amount. If you pay your bills on time, this is a good step forward to gradually repairing your credit history.

Go Subprime

The last and most risky resort is to opt for a subprime credit card. This is specifically targeted for individuals with a bad credit history. These credit cards come with upfront fees and very high interest rates. These types of credit cards are not advisable, unless you really need it. Make sure you can repay the monthly paybacks on time and you would be safe.

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All rates and fees, and other terms and conditions of the products mentioned in this article/post are accurate as of the last update date but are subject to change. See the current products' Terms & Conditions on the issuing banks' websites.