American Savings Secured Visa Credit Card Review
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If you are in the process of building or rebuilding your credit rating, responsible management of secured credit cards can help. Depending on your personal situation and how you plan to use the card, the American Savings Secured Visa Credit Card is worth considering for maintaining or improving your credit score. (See also: Best Secured Credit Cards for Rebuilding Credit)
Why We Like This Card
- Low annual fee of $25
- Deposit earns interest
- Opportunity to graduate to an unsecured credit card
How This Card Works
Your credit limit is determined by your deposit of $300 to $5,000, subject to credit approval. Your account is reported to the three major credit bureaus, which can help establish a positive credit rating if managed responsibly. After 11 months, you may also qualify to move to an unsecured credit card.
Other Benefits
Free FICO score. As a cardholder, you receive free access to your FICO credit score each month allowing you to monitor your credit and help to maintain or improve your credit rating.
Pros
Low annual fee. Annual fees with secured cards vary from zero to as much as $50 per year. $19 is on the low end of the scale. (See also: Best Secured Credit Cards with No Annual Fee)
Graduates to unsecured version. You have the opportunity to graduate to an unsecured credit card over time and with responsible management of your secured account. Graduation to an unsecured card is also not always an option because many secured card issuers specialize in secured cards and do not even carry unsecured versions. This helps your credit history since you won't have to close this card when you are able to qualify for an unsecured card later.
Cons
Foreign transaction fee. Foreign transaction fees are common with secured credit cards. This is only a problem if you frequently travel abroad. Although rare, there are secured cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees.
Who This Card Is Best For
This card is best for those who are either just starting out or have had credit problems in the past and are attempting to repair credit. The American Savings Secured Visa Credit Card is a solid choice with a low annual fee and an APR considered average among other secured cards. However, if you travel abroad frequently you should consider one of the other secured cards available.
Disclaimer: The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.
