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Petal 1 Visa Review

The Petal 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa Credit Card emerges as a refreshing and innovative option.

Petal 1 Visa Card
Source: Petal 1 Visa Card

The Petal 1 Visa eliminates many of the barriers associated with starting out, such as security deposits and annual fees. It’s more than just a credit card; it’s a tool that empowers you to grow, with clear reporting to all three major credit bureaus and the potential for higher credit limits over time. If you’re seeking a straightforward and accessible path to a better credit future, the Petal 1 Visa is an exciting place to start.

The Benefits of the Petal 1 Visa

  • No Security Deposit Required: Unlike many credit-builder cards, the Petal 1 is unsecured, meaning you don’t need to provide an upfront cash deposit to get started.
  • Reports to All 3 Major Credit Bureaus: Your responsible payment history is reported to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, which is essential for building a strong credit profile.
  • “Leap” Program for Credit Limit Increases: With as few as six months of on-time payments, you may be eligible for a credit limit increase, rewarding your good financial habits.
  • Innovative “Cash Score” Technology: If you have a limited credit history, Petal can use your banking information to generate a “Cash Score,” potentially helping you get approved when other issuers might say no.
  • $0 Annual Fee: Build your credit without the worry of a yearly fee cutting into your budget.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees: Use your card for international travel or online purchases from foreign merchants without incurring extra charges.
  • Cash Back at Select Merchants: Earn between 2% and 10% cash back through “Petal Perks,” a program offering rewards at various participating merchants.
  • Credit Limits from $300 to $5,000: Start with a manageable credit line that has the potential to grow with you.
  • User-Friendly Mobile App: Manage your account, track your spending, and monitor your credit score with Petal’s intuitive mobile application.
  • Fraud Protection: Your account is protected with Visa’s Zero Liability Policy, and you can instantly freeze your card in the app if you misplace it.
  • Pre-Approval Without Credit Score Impact: You can see if you’re likely to be approved through a soft credit inquiry that won’t affect your credit score.
Petal 1 Visa Card
Source: Petal 1 Visa Card

Who is Eligible to Apply?

Petal has designed the application process to be inclusive. Here are the general requirements:

  • Age and Residency: You must be at least 18 years old and a permanent resident of one of the 50 United States, Washington, D.C., or a U.S. military location.
  • Identification: A valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is required.
  • Contact Information: You’ll need a valid U.S. telephone number and a valid email address.
  • Bank Account: Applicants must link a valid U.S. checking or savings account where they are the primary or joint account holder. This account should have at least three months of history.
  • Credit History: While a traditional credit history is not always required, you are generally not eligible if you have filed for bankruptcy within the last 48 months.

How to Apply for the Petal 1 Visa

The application process is designed to be simple and transparent.

  1. Start with Pre-Approval: Visit the Petal card website and begin the pre-approval process. This will require you to provide basic personal information. This step does not affect your credit score.
  2. Link Your Bank Account: To generate your “Cash Score,” you will likely need to securely link your primary bank account.
  3. Review Your Offer: Based on your information, Petal will determine if you are pre-approved for the Petal 1 card or another of their products.
  4. Submit a Full Application: If you are pre-approved and wish to proceed, you will then submit a full application, which will involve a hard credit inquiry.
  5. Receive a Decision: You will receive a final decision on your application. If approved, your new card will be mailed to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the “Cash Score”?
    The “Cash Score” is a key feature of Petal’s approval process. It’s a financial measure calculated from your income, savings, and spending habits based on the banking information you provide. This allows Petal to assess your creditworthiness even if you have a limited or non-existent credit history.
  • Are there any hidden fees?
    The Petal 1 Visa is known for being fee-friendly, with no annual fee or foreign transaction fees. However, there are fees for late payments (up to $40) and returned payments (up to $29). It’s important to always make your payments on time to avoid these charges.
  • I heard about some Petal cards adding a monthly fee. Does the Petal 1 have one?
    For new applicants, the Petal 1 Visa is advertised with no annual or monthly fee. In 2023, there were reports that some existing cardholders of both Petal 1 and Petal 2 cards were moved to a different card tier that included a monthly fee. However, this change does not apply to new applications for the standard Petal 1 card at this time.
  • How does the cash back program work?
    The Petal 1 card offers cash back through a program called “Petal Perks.” Instead of a flat rate on all purchases, you can earn between 2% and 10% cash back when you use your card at specific, participating merchants. These offers can be viewed and activated through the Petal mobile app.
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A credit card expert, she utilizes her expertise to create informative content on credit cards, empowering others with financial knowledge.