Self Visa Secured – How to apply

By Raquel Oliveira • 03/18/2025

The Self Secured card is an innovative tool designed to help consumers build and improve their credit. 

The Self Visa Secured Credit Card is an excellent choice for individuals looking to build or rebuild their credit. Unlike traditional credit cards, it does not require a credit check, making it more accessible to those with limited or poor credit history.

This card operates by using a refundable security deposit as collateral, which determines your credit limit. With this structure, you have control over how much credit is available, promoting responsible spending habits.

A key advantage of the Self Visa Secured Credit Card is that Self reports your payment activity to all three major credit bureaus. By making consistent, on-time payments, cardholders can steadily improve their credit score.

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to establish or repair your credit, this card is a strong contender. Below, we’ll break down how it works, its benefits, potential drawbacks, associated fees, and the steps to apply.

How does the Self Secured work?

To start using the card’s benefits, the user must open a Credit Builder account and meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having a stable income and making monthly payments on time. 

Once the card is received, the user activates the card and can start using it anywhere that accepts Visa cards in the United States.

Responsible use of the card is vital. Three main factors impact the credit score: the amount owed, the average age of the accounts and the payment history. 

Benefits of the Self Visa Secured Card

One of the biggest advantages of this card is that it does not require a credit check. Many credit cards deny applicants with limited or bad credit, but the Self Visa Secured Card is open to almost anyone who can provide the deposit.

Another great benefit is the ability to choose your credit limit. Since the amount you deposit becomes your limit, you can decide how much credit you want. This flexibility makes it easy to control your spending.

Self also allows you to build your credit by reporting your payment history to all three major credit bureaus. This is an essential feature for improving your credit score over time.

Additionally, if you already have a Self Credit Builder Account, you can link it to your secured card. This allows you to build credit in two ways, making it an effective financial tool.

Cons of the Self Visa Secured Card

While the Self Visa Secured Card has great features, there are a few downsides to consider before applying. One potential drawback is the annual fee of twenty-five dollars, which some competitors do not charge.

Another factor to keep in mind is the required security deposit. The minimum deposit is one hundred dollars, which might be a challenge for some applicants who are on a tight budget.

The high APR of twenty-eight point two four percent is also a concern. If you carry a balance from month to month, interest charges can add up quickly, making the card expensive to use.

Lastly, since this is a secured card, it does not offer cash back or rewards. If you’re looking for a card with earning potential, this might not be the best option for you.

APR and Fees

The Self Visa Secured Credit Card has a variable APR of twenty-eight point two four percent. This is considered high compared to other secured credit cards, making it crucial to pay off your balance in full each month.

There is an annual fee of twenty-five dollars. While this is lower than some secured credit cards, other options on the market offer no annual fee at all.

The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good choice for occasional international purchases. However, there is a late payment fee of up to forty dollars, so staying on top of payments is essential.

If you decide to close your account, your security deposit is refundable. However, your account must be in good standing, meaning all outstanding balances must be paid before receiving your deposit back.

How to Apply for the Self Visa Secured Card

Applying for the Self Visa Secured Credit Card is simple. The first step is visiting the Self website, where you’ll find the application form.

The application does not require a credit check, making approval easy for those with no credit history. You’ll need to provide personal details like your name, address, and Social Security number.

Next, you’ll need to make a security deposit. The minimum required deposit is one hundred dollars, but you can deposit more to increase your credit limit. You can fund your deposit using a bank transfer, debit card, or through your Self Credit Builder Account.

Once your deposit is processed, you should receive your card in about ten to fifteen business days. After activation, you can start using it to build your credit right away.

Final Thoughts on the Self Visa Secured Card

The Self Visa Secured Credit Card is a strong option for individuals looking to build or rebuild their credit. Its no-credit-check application and flexible deposit options make it accessible for a wide range of users.

However, the high APR and annual fee may not make it the best choice for everyone. If you can manage your balance responsibly and pay in full each month, this card can be a valuable credit-building tool.

For those who already have a Self Credit Builder Account, this card provides an additional way to strengthen credit history. Over time, responsible use can help you qualify for better credit cards with lower fees and higher limits.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward improving your credit, the Self Visa Secured Card could be a solid choice to help you reach your financial goals.