How To Apply For A Credit Card With Low Credit Ratings

By Dave Nyam •  Updated: 02/20/24 •  5 min read

Trying to get a charge card in South Africa with a low loan score may sound very daunting initially. Well, here is some hope for you. Still, with your not-so-good credit score, options remain open to you. Some credit cards come with rewards and a low fee, particularly for people with a bad credit history. They are a potential stepping stone toward improving your credit rating

and thus getting more favourable opportunities in the financial field farther down the road. Here is a detailed walkthrough showing you how to navigate the gold card landscape with a low score.

How To Apply For Credit Card With A Low Credit Rating

You could still attempt to get a charge plate, even if you are on the lower end of the loan rating, but this comes with a few steps and a list of the fulfilled requirements. Below is how to apply for a gold card with a low loan reading in South Africa:

Can I Still Process Credit Cards With A Low Credit Score?

A low-level reading does not imply a total inability to take out a charge plate—it curtails your options and makes qualifying for the best gold cards tougher. Depending on the kind of credit card one is looking for and their credit history, there will be a need for a credit score to get a credit card. Generally, credit cards in South Africa require over 550 for the lowest score for a person to get. It can be found by getting your credit report for free and knowing your credit score.

For someone whose credit score falls under 550, there is still a chance of getting a credit card if alternative options are considered. Those include:

Which Bank Gives Credit Cards Easily?

The response to this query relies on one’s earnings, expenditures, and monetary objectives. But among many, a few banks have a reputation for having easy application processes and flexed credit card offers. For example, Capitec Global One Credit Card offers basic simplicity, affordability, and travel insurance. Discovery Bank Gold Credit Card gives you value for healthy living and a competitive rate. FNB Premier Credit Card offers eBucks rewards, travel insurance, and lifestyle discounts. These are some of the hassle-free charge plates to apply for in SA. 

What Is The Lowest Credit Rating To Get Credit Cards In South Africa?

Your three-digit rating shows your capacity to handle loans, with a nine hundred and ninety-nine ceiling. Most credit cards require at least a score of 550, yet there are differences from card to card. This means it’s fair, and you have the advantage of really qualifying. However, some bank cards may require a higher reading, especially if they offer more benefits or lower interest rates.

Which Credit Card Does Not Require A Credit Score?

Imagine jumping into the sphere of loans for the first time or having to re-enter after some extended period off. You are likely to have no credit score or one that has gone cold, and you may struggle to get a credit card with many banks. But fear not! In South Africa, there are those credit cards that don’t hinge on your credit score. Cards like the ABSA Student Credit Card, the Nedbank Gold Credit Card, and the Capitec Global One Credit Card come to the rescue. These cards are tailor-made for beginners, students, or even those with a low income so that they can open their golden opportunity of building your credit history.

Keep Reading

How to Check If Your Credit Card Has Been Hacked

How to Check If Your Credit Card Has Been Hacked

You can easily fall victim and as such, it is important to read through this entire article to understand credit card theft, hacking and protection. 

Credit Card Online Application

Credit Card Online Application

This modern approach opens up a big universe of financial services to humankind. When one is using the online application system

How to Check Credit Card Details On Takealot

How to Check Credit Card Details On Takealot

How to Check Credit Card Details On Takealot. In this blog post, we will take you through some common questions on Takealot.

Credit Card Loan Repayment Calculator

Credit Card Loan Repayment Calculator

The article will touch on the deconstruction of the loan repayment calculators for loans taken on a credit card

How to Check My Credit Card Application Status

How to Check My Credit Card Application Status

If you want to apply for a credit card, you will get it within a few working days. This guide explains the steps you can take to check your credit card application status. 

Slice Credit Card: Advantages and Disadvantages

Slice Credit Card: Advantages and Disadvantages

Today we look at a prepaid credit card called Slice with a longer history. We cover how it works and what to expect

Does a Credit Card Cover U-Haul?

Does a Credit Card Cover U-Haul?

Many rental companies for this niche work on the same model, even in South Africa. Maybe one day we will even see U-Haul working in SA, too!

How to Avoid Paying Interest On Your Credit Card?

How to Avoid Paying Interest On Your Credit Card?

Today we will look in more detail at some strategies you can use to avoid hefty credit card interest rates and use your credit card smartly.

Can I Have A Credit Score Without A Credit Card?

Can I Have A Credit Score Without A Credit Card?

This blog will highlight the chance of getting a credit score without a credit card. Also, you will understand the diff between credit score & credit card

How Does a Company Qualify for Business Credit Cards?

How Does a Company Qualify for Business Credit Cards?

These credit cards usually have higher credit limits than personal ones, which showcase big business spending.

How Is Credit Different From Debt?

How Is Credit Different From Debt?

This article dissects those ideas, makes clear the differences concerning the role of personal economic finance

How to Use A Credit Card to Build Credit Score

How to Use A Credit Card to Build Credit Score

This article will guide you on using a credit card to build a score in South Africa and have certain common queries answered.

How to Use Credit Card to Increase Credit Score

How to Use Credit Card to Increase Credit Score

Here is an insight into how your credit card can help enhance your credit score and financial health.

How Does a Monthly Credit Card Payment Work?

How Does a Monthly Credit Card Payment Work?

It is important for people to know the terms of the credit agreement and to act with proper planning

How to Check If A Credit Card Is Activated

How to Check If A Credit Card Is Activated

This is why we are here to guide you through how to check if your credit card is activated.