Take control of your credit
Secured Credit Card
Build your credit history
Whether you’re looking to establish, strengthen or rebuild credit, a share-secured credit card from Mountain America can help. With this option, the funds are secured by savings, which makes it a smart choice for consumers with a low or no credit score. Plus, all primary members receive free access to their credit scores to monitor its impact on their credit history.
- Available on Low Rate, Rewards and Cash Back cards
- Credit limits from $300 into the thousands
- No annual fee*
- Competitive rates
- Funds secured by your savings account
- Free online and mobile access to your credit score
Simple steps for secured cards
Step 1
Have enough funds in your savings account to use as collateral (equal to your desired credit limit).
Step 2
Apply for a secured credit card.
Step 3
Use your card for everyday purchases.
Step 4
Make monthly payments on time to help build your credit.
Secured credit card FAQs
What is a share-secured credit card?
Share secured is an option for all Mountain America credit cards. It requires the applicant to make a refundable security deposit, which Mountain America holds as collateral until the account is paid off and closed. This card feature is especially helpful for consumers who have limited or damaged credit.
Do I need to be a member to get a secured credit card?
Yes, you will need to qualify for membership in order to obtain a share-secured credit card from Mountain America.
Do secured credit cards help build credit?
Share-secured cards allow consumers to have a positive credit account on their credit history. If payments are made on time and the utilization rate (how much you currently owe divided by your credit limit) remains low (ideally 30% or less), then the share-secured credit card can help build and establish credit.
How many share-secured credit cards should I have?
Mountain America allows only one credit card per account.
Can I get a secured credit card with a bankruptcy?
Mountain America requires all bankruptcies to be discharged or dismissed in order to proceed with a share-secured credit card.
What does bad credit mean?
When a consumer has bad credit, it typically means they have not met the obligations to pay debts in their name (late payments, missed payments, etc.). This can cause concern with future lending since the consumer can be viewed as unreliable.
Can bad credit be fixed?
Bad credit can be improved if past-due balances are brought current and collections are paid in full. Credit is built off the proper management of credit accounts. A positive payment history carries the most weight when trying to build your credit score.
What kind of rates are offered?
The annual percentage rate (APR) varies. If the prime rate index (PRI) increases or decreases, the card’s rate adjusts accordingly.
Visa terms and conditions
Program Rules