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Credit cards for bad credit

34.9% APR representative variable

Credit cards for bad credit

If you have bad credit, you may still be able to get a credit card with Capital One, which could help you build your credit score. We offer credit limits starting from £200. See if you're eligible for one of our credit cards today.

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If you use the Classic card sensibly it can help you build up your credit score. That means making your monthly minimum payments on time every month and staying within your credit limit. If you don't do these things you could harm your credit score.

Capital One Classic

A credit card for people with poor credit

Find out if you'll be accepted before you apply, without affecting your credit score

Not sure if you're eligible? You can get an answer from us in 60 seconds

Our free mobile app lets you track your spending and make payments anytime

Capital One Classic credit card

Over 6 million people have already been accepted for a Classic Card

Credit Card
  • Check if you'll be accepted without affecting your credit score
  • Can help you improve your credit score
  • £200 - £1,500 credit limit
Check if you're eligible
Representative example: assuming a credit limit of £1,200 and an interest rate on purchases of 34.94% p.a. variable, you will receive a 34.9% APR representative variable.

What is bad credit?

Bad credit affects millions of people in the UK. It's one of the main reasons why people are turned down for a loan or a credit card. But if you do have a bad credit score, it's important to know you're not alone.

Having bad credit doesn't always mean that your credit score is really low. For some people, it just means it isn't 'perfect'. But the good news is there are things you can do to improve your credit score. And it doesn't have to stand in the way of you getting the credit you need.

Why do I have bad credit?

There are two main reasons why you may have bad credit:

No credit history

When you apply for a credit card, a lender will want to know that you can pay them back. Having a healthy credit history shows you've used credit responsibly in the past. So this tells a lender that you're likely to be a reliable customer.

But what if you don't have any history of using credit or your credit history is quite limited? This can make it harder for lenders to know how reliable you are.

So, even if you've never had trouble managing your money before, not borrowing money or having a credit card can count against you. This can lead to you having a low credit score, which can have the same effect on your ability to get credit as having bad credit.

A limited credit history can be especially tricky for people who are new to the UK. Any credit history they may have built up in another country doesn't apply in the UK. Not only does it make it hard to apply for a credit card, but other things such as buying a car, signing up for a mobile phone contract or getting broadband.

Problems with credit

If you've struggled with credit in the past, you could find it hard to get accepted for credit in the future. Common problems include:

These are the kind of things that make it less likely for you to get credit. But you're not stuck with bad credit.

There are steps you can take to move your credit score in the right direction and show a lender that you can use credit responsibly. And getting a credit card for bad credit can be one of those steps, as long as it's used responsibly.

What is a credit card for poor credit?

Credit cards for poor credit — like the Capital One Classic card - can help put your credit history on the right track when they're used sensibly which means making regular payments on time each month and staying under your credit limit.

When you apply for a Classic card you'll get a manageable credit limit and a representative APR of 34.9% representative variable.

Can I get a poor credit credit card?

If you're over 18 years old, live in the UK, and are looking for a credit card for poor credit scores then you could be eligible for our Classic card. Try QuickCheck today and see if you are eligible for our Classic card before you apply.

How do I apply for a credit card with bad credit?

To apply for a credit card with bad credit, the first step is to see if you're eligible. Capital One's QuickCheck tool can help you. It takes a minute to do and will give you a definite yes or no before you apply. That way you can be 100% sure if you'll be accepted before you apply.

We'll only ask you for some information to find out more about who you are, where you live and your current work situation and we'll be able to tell you if you're eligible for a credit card for bad credit scores. Ready to start? Check now and find out if you'll be accepted.

Why should I check before I apply for a bad credit credit card?

Having bad credit makes it more likely you'll be turned down when you apply for a credit card. And every application you make leaves a mark on your credit report - even if the answer is no. Too many of these marks can look bad to a lender, which means it becomes harder to be accepted for credit in the future.

At Capital One, we created QuickCheck, our free eligibility checker, which allows you to see if you'll be accepted for one of our credit cards before you apply. Without affecting your credit score.

That way, you can be 100% confident when you apply.

Use our free eligibility checker to see if you are eligible for a credit card for bad credit

Why is my credit score important?

Your credit score is a representation of your credit history and can help lenders decide if you'll be accepted for a credit card or loan. Many people in the UK are turned down due to their credit score, which is why having a good score is important.

How do I check my credit score?

If you want to find out your credit score, how to improve it and understand more about your financial history try CreditWise. It's free to use and lets you track your credit score month to month, giving you tips on how to make improvements and take care of your credit health. You don't even have to be a Capital One customer to use it.

6 tips to improve your credit score