No credit check, a refundable $200 deposit and automatic reviews for an upgrade after seven months. If you’ve been turned down elsewhere, start here.
The bottom line
The Bluebird Starter Card is the easiest way to build or rebuild credit. Your deposit becomes your credit limit, and Bluebird returns it when you graduate to an unsecured card.
Bluebird Starter Card
- Annual fee:$0
- Rewards rate:1% cash back
- Deposit:$200 (refundable)
- Regular APR:27.99% Variable
- Credit score:300–669 (Building)
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
Pros and cons
- No credit check to apply
- Reports to all three bureaus
- Upgrade path after 7 months
- No annual fee
- Requires a $200 security deposit
- Few rewards (1% back)
Detailed review
Secured cards work like regular credit cards, except you put down a deposit that becomes your credit line. Bluebird doesn’t check your credit when you apply, so a thin file or past mistakes won’t stop you.
After seven months of on-time payments, Bluebird reviews your account automatically. If you qualify, you move to an unsecured card and get your $200 deposit back.
Bluebird Starter: the basics
- Card type: Secured
- Annual fee: $0
- Security deposit: $200 minimum, refundable
- Interest rate: 27.99% Variable APR
- Credit check: None to apply
Ongoing rewards
- 1% cash back on every purchase
- Cash back is paid as a monthly statement credit
How long does it take to build credit?
Most people see a credit score within six months of opening their first card. With on-time payments and low balances, a score in the mid-600s within a year is common.
Ledgerly tip
Use the card for one small recurring bill, like a streaming subscription, and set up autopay. It builds payment history with no effort and no risk of overspending.
Benefits and perks
- No credit check to apply.
- Reports to all three bureaus every month.
- Automatic upgrade reviews starting at month seven.
Drawbacks and considerations
You need a deposit. The $200 minimum ties up cash until you upgrade or close the account.
High APR. Always pay in full to avoid interest.
Compare to other cards
-
Pioneer Student Card
$50 statement credit
- Annual fee:$0
- Rewards rate:1%–3% cash back
- Intro offer:$50 credit
- Regular APR:21.99%–29.99% Variable
- Credit score:300–670 (Limited history)
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
-
Keystone Everyday Cash Card
$150 cash bonus
- Annual fee:$0
- Rewards rate:1%–3% cash back
- Intro offer:$150 bonus
- Intro APR:0% for 12 months
- Regular APR:19.99%–28.99% Variable
- Credit score:670–850 (Good–Excellent)
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
Is it right for you?
If you can’t get approved for a regular card, the Bluebird Starter Card gives you a clear, low-cost path to good credit.
A secured card that reports to all three credit bureaus, with a refundable $200 deposit and a path to an unsecured card.
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the deposit refundable?
Yes. You get it back when you upgrade or close the account with a zero balance.
Can I deposit more than $200?
Yes, up to $2,000, which raises your credit limit.
Does Bluebird check my credit?
No credit check is required to apply.