Can I Get a Credit Card with a 520 Credit Score?
The Short Answer
Getting a credit card with a 520 credit score is possible but challenging. You are 30 points below the typical minimum. Some lenders may approve you with higher rates or additional requirements.
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Understanding a 520 Credit Score for Credit Cards
A 520 credit score falls in the "poor" range according to FICO scoring models. This does not mean zero options, but you will face more obstacles and higher costs when seeking a credit card.
Credit Card Options at Your Score Level
- Secured credit cards are your best option. A refundable deposit becomes your credit limit and reports to all 3 bureaus.
- Store credit cards sometimes approve lower scores with small limits.
How to Improve Your Score Before Applying
- Dispute inaccurate negative items. Removing one incorrect collection or late payment can boost your score by 20-50 points.
- Pay down credit card balances. Get below 30% — ideally below 10% — for quick gains.
- Become an authorized user. Adds positive history to your report.
- Avoid new hard inquiries. Each application can lower your score by 5-10 points.
- Set up automatic payments. Payment history is 35% of your FICO score.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Focus on raising your score by at least 30 points to reach the typical minimum for credit card approval.
Dispute any inaccurate negative items on your credit report — this is the fastest way to boost your score.
Pay down credit card balances to below 30% of your limit to improve your utilization ratio.
Consider a secured credit card or credit-builder loan to add positive payment history.
Get a free credit report review from Credit Booster to identify exactly which items are hurting your score.
Ready to Improve Your Credit Score?
Credit Booster removes negative items from all 3 credit bureaus. Average clients see results in 27 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really get a credit card with a 520 credit score?
Getting a credit card with a 520 credit score is possible but challenging. You are below the typical minimum of 550, so you may face higher rates and stricter requirements. Improving your score by 30 points would significantly increase your options.
What interest rate can I expect on a credit card with a 520 score?
With a 520 credit score, expect interest rates 3-8% higher than borrowers with good credit (700+). On a mortgage, this could mean an extra $200-500/month. Improving your credit before applying is strongly recommended.
How long does it take to improve my credit score from 520?
The timeline depends on what is hurting your score. Disputing inaccurate negative items can show results in 30-45 days. Paying down high credit card balances can improve your score within 1-2 billing cycles. On average, Credit Booster clients see meaningful improvement within 27 days of starting the program.
What is the minimum credit score for a credit card?
Secured credit cards are available with scores as low as 300. Unsecured cards typically require 550-600+. Rewards and premium cards usually need 670+.