
For those looking to build a strong financial foundation or get back on the right track, the U.S. Bank Secured Visa Card offers a straightforward and powerful tool to achieve your goals. This card is designed with one primary purpose in mind: to help you build or rebuild your credit history responsibly. By providing a clear and simple path, it empowers you to take control of your financial future with the security and reliability of a major bank.
The Benefits of the U.S. Bank Secured Visa Card
- Powerful Credit Building: This is the card’s core benefit. U.S. Bank reports your payment history and account status to all three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion—which is essential for establishing a strong credit profile.
- Potential to Graduate to an Unsecured Card: With responsible use, you may be eligible to graduate to a traditional, unsecured U.S. Bank credit card. They will automatically begin reviewing your account after 12 months for this possibility.
- $0 Annual Fee: Build your credit without the burden of an annual fee, allowing you to focus on your financial goals.
- You Set Your Credit Limit: Your credit limit is determined by the amount of your refundable security deposit, from $300 up to $5,000. This puts you in control and helps ensure you start with a manageable credit line.
- Free Credit Score Access: Keep track of your progress with free access to your credit score through your U.S. Bank online banking or mobile app.
- Flexible Payment Due Date: You can choose your payment due date to align with your schedule, making it easier to manage your payments and avoid missing one.
- Zero Fraud Liability: Shop with peace of mind knowing you are not held responsible for unauthorized transactions if your card is ever lost or stolen.
- Autopay Options: Set up automatic payments to help ensure you always pay on time, which is a key factor in building a positive credit history.
- FDIC-Insured Security Deposit: Your security deposit is held in a U.S. Bank secured savings account that is FDIC-insured and earns interest.

Who Can Apply
The U.S. Bank Secured Visa Card is designed to be accessible to a wide range of individuals, particularly those focused on their credit journey.
- Credit History: Individuals with fair, limited, or poor credit histories are the primary audience for this card.
- Age: You must be at least 18 years of age.
- Residency: A valid U.S. physical address is required.
- Identification: You will need to provide a Social Security Number (SSN).
- Security Deposit: Applicants must have the funds to make a refundable security deposit of at least $300.
- Bank Account: You will need to provide bank account information when submitting your deposit.
How to Apply
Applying for the U.S. Bank Secured Visa Card is a straightforward process.
- Visit the U.S. Bank Website: Navigate to the official U.S. Bank Secured Visa Card application page.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the secure online application with your personal, contact, and financial information.
- Fund Your Security Deposit: If approved, you will need to provide your refundable security deposit. The amount you deposit will become your credit limit.
- Receive and Activate Your Card: Once your card arrives in the mail, you’ll need to activate it. You can then begin making purchases and building your credit history.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How exactly does a secured credit card work?
A secured card is backed by a cash security deposit you provide upfront. The amount you deposit determines your credit limit. You use the card like a regular credit card, and your payments are reported to the credit bureaus. The deposit acts as collateral for the bank, reducing their risk and making it easier for individuals with limited or poor credit to get approved. - Can this card be upgraded to a regular, unsecured credit card?
Yes, that is a key benefit. After 12 months of responsible card use, U.S. Bank will automatically begin reviewing your account to see if you are eligible to graduate to an unsecured credit card. If you qualify, your security deposit will be refunded to you. - Does the U.S. Bank Secured Visa® Card earn rewards like cash back or points?
No, this specific card does not offer a rewards program. Its primary focus is on providing a low-cost, effective way to build credit. U.S. Bank does offer other secured cards, like the U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card and the U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card, which are designed for those who want to earn rewards while building credit. - What happens to my security deposit?
Your security deposit is held in an FDIC-insured savings account and is fully refundable. It will be returned to you if you graduate to an unsecured card or if you decide to close your account while it is in good standing with a zero balance.