Can I Get a Credit Card with Bad Credit?

Yes, you can sometimes get a credit card with bad credit—but it’s usually:

• A secured credit card (you put down a deposit), or

• A higher interest “subprime” card with fees and a low limit

You may get approved, but it can be expensive and risky if you’re already struggling with money or debt.

That’s why, for a lot of people, it can be smarter to stabilize your finances first with a safer everyday card, then come back to traditional credit later.

KOHO Essential is a Strong Alternative

If your credit is in rough shape, the biggest priority is to avoid making it worse while you rebuild.

With KOHO Essential:

• It has a low monthly plan fee that can be waived when you set up direct deposit or add +$1,000.

• Use a prepaid Mastercard® for groceries, bills, subscriptions, and travel.

• Grow your savings with a 2% interest savings rate on your entire balance.

• Earn 1% cash back on groceries, eating & drinking, and transportation.

• You can add Credit Building for $10/month, it's an affordable way to build your credit history

• Enjoy unlimited transactions and free e-transfers (never worry about fees when sending money to someone again).

When a Credit Card Might Still Make Sense

A traditional credit card can be useful if:

• You’ve cleaned up your budget and won’t carry a balance

• You want to build credit and know you’ll pay in full and on time

• You choose a simple, low-fee, low-limit option (often a secured card)

But if you’re still worried about overspending or missing payments, it’s usually safer to:

1. Use KOHO Essential as your primary spending card

2. Build a small emergency fund

3. Work on Credit Building and other positive habits

4. Only then consider a traditional credit card when you’re ready to handle it safely