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Why Credit Builder is the Best Credit Card for Beginners

Two young adult females looking at a phone together, likely discussing credit building.

Building credit can feel overwhelming, especially when you are just starting out. That's where the Credit Builder Secured Credit Card from Academy Bank shines. It’s not just a credit card; it’s a tool designed to help you take control of your finances. Here’s why it’s one of the best credit cards to build credit, especially for beginners.

1. Getting Started is Simple

Starting your credit-building journey is easy with the Credit Builder credit card. Just apply online, set aside your deposit as collateral, and provide some basic personal details like your ID and SSN. There’s no complicated process—just a straightforward way to start building credit.

2. Easier to Qualify (Even for First-Timers!)

Unlike traditional credit cards that often require a strong credit score, secured cards are much easier to qualify for. That’s why the Credit Builder Secured Credit Card is a great option for individuals with limited or no credit history. It provides a low-barrier entry point for beginners and a clear path to financial growth.

3. Automatic Reports to Major Credit Bureaus

One of the most important perks of the Credit Builder card is its automatic reporting to all three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion). This means every on-time payment you make is recorded, helping improve your credit score and establish a solid financial foundation.

4. Grow Your Credit Limit

Starting with a lower credit limit doesn’t mean you have to stay there! If you want more purchasing power with a secured credit card, you can increase your limit by adding money to your linked savings account. This not only gives you flexibility, but it also improves your credit utilization ratio (a key factor in building credit).

5. Flexible Payment Dates

Life doesn’t always fit perfectly with your budgeting plans, which is why this credit building credit card offers the option to choose your payment date—either the 1st or 16th of the month. This flexibility helps students and young professionals budget around pay cycles and stay on top of their payments.

6. Low or No Fees

There's a lot to love about Credit Builder—especially when it comes to keeping costs low. Unlike many other credit cards, Academy Bank minimizes fees to help you focus on building credit rather than worrying about surprise costs.

  • No application fees
  • No annual fees
  • No over-the-limit fees

PRO TIP: Save yourself a $5 quarterly paper statement fee by enrolling in eStatements.

7. Advanced Security Features

With features like EMV chip technology and Visa® Secure Remote Commerce, this card prioritizes your safety both online and in-store. EMV chip technology reduces the risk of fraud during transactions, while Visa® Secure Remote Commerce ensures your online shopping transactions are protected with extra layers of security.

8. Credit Building for Life’s Milestones

Dreaming of moving into your first apartment or buying your first car? Want to buy a house someday? A good credit score can help you get there. By building your credit early and responsibly, you are giving yourself the financial stability to reach these exciting milestones.

9. Upgrade to an Unsecured Credit Card

With responsible use of the Credit Builder Secured Credit Card, you can graduate to an unsecured card in the future. This opens up opportunities for added perks and higher limits, while making it easier to access credit in the future.

Build Your Credit with Academy Bank’s Credit Builder

Building credit is very important—whether you are a college student, a young adult stepping into financial independence, or just giving your credit score a much-needed comeback tour. No matter where you are starting from, the right tools can make all the difference.

Searching for the best way to build credit? Look no further than Academy Bank’s Credit Builder Secured Credit Card! It’s simple to use and makes “adulting” a little easier. Apply today and see why it’s one of the top credit cards for beginners!

Apply for Secured Credit Card

Looking for more financial tips for young adults? Check out our recent article: Navigating Finances in your 20s: A Beginner’s Guide to Adulting.

Subject to credit approval. Transaction and Penalty fees apply. Credit Builder Savings Account required. $300-$3,000 opening deposit required. $5 quarterly fee charged to the Credit Builder Savings Account if not enrolled in eStatements. Improved credit score is not guaranteed. Credit score is determined by credit reporting agencies based on multiple factors, but satisfactory performance on a credit card product can improve your credit score. Default on a credit card, including missed or late payments can damage your credit score. Once added, funds cannot be withdrawn from the Credit Builder Savings Account and the Credit Builder Credit Card without closing the savings account and the credit card.