Self Visa Secured Card Review

Start building credit with no credit history, no hard inquiry, and zero upfront deposit—just consistent progress.

The Self Visa Secured Credit Card takes a unique approach to credit-building. Unlike traditional secured cards, it doesn’t require an upfront deposit. Instead, it’s linked to a Self Credit Builder Account, allowing users to build credit while saving money over time. Once eligibility is met, funds from that account are used to secure the card.

It’s designed for individuals who are new to credit or looking to rebuild, offering an accessible path forward with no hard credit pull and full reporting to all three major bureaus. With manageable payments, digital tools, and a transparent model, Self helps users take control of their financial journey.

Build Credit While You Save – Self Visa Secured Card

1. No Upfront Security Deposit

Unlike most secured cards, there’s no need to provide a cash deposit to open the account. Instead, users save over time through a Self Credit Builder Account. Once enough progress is made, those savings become the security deposit—making credit more accessible and less stressful.

2. No Hard Credit Check

Applying for the Self Visa Secured Card does not affect your credit score. There’s no hard inquiry, which makes it ideal for those starting with zero credit. This inclusive process allows more users to qualify without risking score damage.

3. Reports to All Three Bureaus

The Self card reports monthly to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Timely payments can help establish or strengthen your credit history. This ongoing reporting is essential for anyone aiming to qualify for better financial products in the future.

4. Linked to Your Credit Builder Account

Before getting the card, users open a Credit Builder Account—a small installment loan that helps save money and build payment history. This dual approach means you’re building credit in two ways: loan repayment and secured card usage.

5. Set Your Own Limit

Your security deposit is based on the amount saved in your account, usually starting at $100 or more. You decide how much to commit as your limit. This control allows you to tailor your card to match your financial goals and comfort level.

6. Mobile App Access

Manage your account, make payments, and monitor progress through the Self app. Everything you need is available 24/7 from your phone. Digital access keeps things simple and empowers you to stay on track from anywhere.

7. Real-Time Alerts

Stay updated with instant notifications for payments, transactions, and balances. These alerts support better money management and help avoid missed payments. It’s a helpful feature for anyone building new financial habits.

8. Available to All Credit Levels

Whether you’re just starting or recovering from past financial issues, this card welcomes all backgrounds. You don’t need a perfect score—or any score at all. This accessibility is ideal for students, young adults, or anyone previously denied credit.

9. Secure and Trusted Issuer

The Self Visa Secured Card is issued by Lead Bank and supported by Self’s platform, giving users a trustworthy experience backed by fintech innovation. You’ll have the stability of a traditional bank combined with the flexibility of a modern credit-building tool.

Qualification Requirements

• U.S. Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Social Security number.
  
• 18 Years or Older: Applicants must be the age of majority in their state to apply.
  
• Open a Credit Builder Account: You must first open and make consistent payments toward a Self Credit Builder Account.
  
• Minimum Deposit Threshold Met: You must reach the minimum required savings (typically $100 or more) before unlocking the card.
  
• Good Payment History: To be eligible, your Credit Builder Account must remain in good standing, with on-time payments.
  
• Valid Bank Account or Debit Card: You’ll need a linked bank account or debit card to make ongoing payments and manage your savings.
  

How to Apply for the Self Visa Secured Card

• Create a Self Account: Start by signing up at Self and opening a Credit Builder Account with a plan that fits your budget.
  
• Make Monthly Payments: Begin making consistent monthly payments toward your installment savings plan.
  
• Reach Deposit Eligibility: Once you’ve saved at least $100 and made three on-time payments, you may become eligible for the secured card.
  
• Accept Card Invitation: If approved, you’ll receive an invitation to activate your Self Visa Secured Card.
  
• Assign Deposit for Credit Limit: Choose how much of your savings you want to use as your credit limit.
  
• Start Using the Card: Once active, you can begin using your card wherever Visa is accepted and continue building credit.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there a credit check to apply for the Self Visa Card?
No. There’s no hard credit pull when applying, which protects your credit score during the process.

2. Can I use my entire Self savings as my credit limit?
Yes. Once eligible, you can choose how much of your Credit Builder Account balance to allocate as your secured deposit.

3. How does this help my credit?
Both the Credit Builder Account and the Self Visa Secured Card report to all three credit bureaus. On-time payments improve your credit profile over time.

4. Can I close the card and get my money back?
Yes. If you close your account in good standing, your secured deposit is returned—just like with a traditional secured card.