The Self Visa® Credit Card is designed to help individuals build or improve their credit by leveraging their Credit Builder Account savings as the security deposit. With no hard credit pull required, users can set their credit limit based on their savings progress, starting at $100 or more. The card offers opportunities for credit limit increases over time, and it can be used anywhere Visa is accepted in the U.S. Responsible use impacts key credit factors, including payment history, making it a useful tool for those looking to strengthen their credit score.
Key Features
-
Credit Building. Responsible use impacts 75% of your credit score by addressing amounts owed, account age, and payment history.
-
No Upfront Fees. The credit limit is secured by your Credit Builder Account savings, with no additional upfront costs.
-
Credit Limit Increase. Accounts in good standing may qualify for credit limit increases over time.
-
Buying Power. The card is accepted anywhere Visa credit cards are accepted within the U.S.
Pros and Cons
Pros
-
No Hard Credit Pull. No hard inquiry for the card or Credit Builder Account.
-
Credit Limit Increases. Self regularly reviews accounts for potential credit limit increases.
-
Security Deposit. Your credit limit is based on your Credit Builder Account savings, eliminating the need for an upfront deposit.
Cons
-
Annual Fee.The card has an annual fee.
-
Plan Selection. It may be confusing to choose the right Credit Builder plan.
-
Alternative Options.Those with existing credit may benefit more from a traditional secured card.
How to Apply for a Self Visa® Credit Card
-
Open Credit Builder Account. Ensure you have an active Credit Builder Account and meet the income and eligibility requirements.
-
Choose Your Credit Limit. Decide how much of your savings progress ($100 or more) will secure your card and set your credit limit.
-
Order Your Card. Confirm your delivery address and place your order for the card.
-
Receive & Activate. Once you receive the card in the mail, activate it to start using it where Visa credit cards are accepted in the U.S.
-
Track & Pay On Time. Monitor your spending and make timely payments to build credit.
Infographic
Eligibility Requirements
-
Citizenship. Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or non-resident alien.
-
Age. Must be at least 18 years old.
-
Social Security Number. Must have a valid Social Security number.
-
Bank Account. Must have a valid bank account.
Reasons You May Be Denied a Credit Card
-
Low Credit Score. A low credit score indicates to lenders that you may be a high-risk borrower, which can lead to denial.
-
High Debt-to-Income Ratio. If your monthly debt payments are too high compared to your income, lenders may view you as overextended and unable to take on additional debt.
-
Limited Credit History. Having little or no credit history can make it difficult for lenders to assess your creditworthiness.
-
Recent Credit Applications. Applying for multiple credit cards or loans within a short period can be seen as a sign of financial instability.
-
Negative Information on Credit Report. Items such as late payments, collections, bankruptcies, or foreclosures can negatively impact your creditworthiness.
How to Pay Off Credit Card Debt
You can easily make payments on your Self credit card through the Self app or by logging into your account on the Self website. Simply choose your preferred platform, enter the payment amount, and submit the payment to help pay off your credit card debt.
Editorial Opinion
The Self Visa® Credit Card provides a practical option for individuals looking to build or repair their credit, particularly for those with limited credit history. By using the savings from a Credit Builder Account to secure the card, users can set their own credit limit and improve their score with responsible use. However, the card comes with an annual fee, and the process of choosing the right credit builder plan may be confusing for some. Overall, it serves as a valuable tool for credit improvement, though those with existing credit might find other secured cards more advantageous.
Additional Resources
Sources