What are the best department store credit cards for bad credit?

The best store credit cards for bad credit are the Fingerhut Credit Account and the Montgomery Ward Credit Account. Both of these store credit cards accept applicants with bad credit scores, have $0 annual fees, and report to the major credit bureaus.

They don’t have a whole lot of competition, however. There are very few store credit cards for bad credit available right now. Nearly all store cards require at least fair credit for approval, according to WalletHub’s database of 1,500+ credit card offers. But there are exceptions from time to time. ... read full answer

There are other types of cards to consider, too. They include unsecured credit cards for people with bad credit as well as secured credit cards, which give you the highest approval odds. Some even offer rewards and are affiliated with a popular brand. In other words, they’re like store credit cards for bad credit, but you can use them anywhere. You can check out our top picks below.

Best Store-Affiliated Credit Cards for Bad Credit

There aren’t many store credit cards for people bad credit to choose from right now, so identifying the best of the bunch isn’t very difficult. Overall, the best store credit card for bad credit is the Fingerhut Credit Account because you can get it with a poor credit score and there’s no annual fee. Plus, the Fingerhut Credit Account reports to the credit bureaus every month, which will allow you to build credit if you pay your bills on time.

Fingerhut is an online retailer that sells a broad array of goods from major brands, often at a discount, and allows you to pay for them in monthly installments. You can buy TVs and computers for up to 25% off, for example.

You don’t want to limit yourself unnecessarily, however. There are plenty of other credit cards for bad credit that could provide even better perks with popular retailers. So, make sure to keep the following pointers in mind when shopping for the best credit card for your needs.

3 Things to Remember When Looking for Store Credit Cards with Bad Credit

1. Store credit cards don’t give the highest approval odds. Nearly all store credit cards require at least fair credit for approval.
2. Store credit cards and co-branded credit cards are different. A store credit card works at no more than a few retailers, but usually just one. A co-branded credit card is affiliated with a retailer or other company but can be used anywhere Visa, Mastercard, Discover or American Express is accepted.
3. Secured cards are best for credit repair. Store credit cards for poor credit are barely a thing. Secured credit cards, on the other hand, were made to help people with bad credit rebuild.

If you’re interested in more advice, sign up for a free WalletHub account. You can check your credit score for free, with daily updates, and receive personalized credit-improvement tips and recommendations for credit cards with high approval odds.

The best instant approval store cards are the following:

• Amazon.com Store Card
• Walmart® Store Card
• Target Credit Card
• Sam's Club® Credit Card
• GAP Store Card
• American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) Store Card
• Sears Store Card
• Macy's Store Card

It really depends on what store you like most, as rewards are mainly tailored for purchases made in those stores.

It's also important to mention that while these cards offer instant approval, they do not offer guaranteed approval.... read full answer