| Rewards | None |
|---|---|
| Signup Bonus | None |
| Annual Fee | $39 |
| Cardmember Agreement | View Here |
| Cash Advance APR | Around 24.25%–29.25% variable |
| Cash Advance Fee | Either $10 or 4% of amount (whichever is greater) |
| Late Payment Fee | Up to $30–$35 depending on agreement |
| Purchases APR | 17.25%–22.25% variable depending on offer |
| * Card terms and offers are subject to change. Confirm current details with the issuer. | |
The First State Bank Secured Visa Card is a straightforward credit-building card designed for people with limited or damaged credit. It requires a refundable security deposit and doesn’t offer rewards, signup bonuses, or travel perks. Most versions come with a small annual fee and report activity to all three major credit bureaus, which is really its main selling point.
Most users say they appreciate how easy it is to get approved, even with a low credit score, and many reviewers mentioned that it does a reliable job of helping them establish or rebuild credit history over time. People also like that it functions like a normal Visa card while still being accessible to beginners.
On the downside, cardholders often complain about the lack of rewards, limited long-term value, and occasional fees, especially compared to newer secured cards that offer no annual fee or upgrade paths. Some also feel the benefits are very basic once they’ve improved their credit.
Personally, I think this card is best for someone who needs a simple, no-frills entry point into credit building and doesn’t qualify for stronger secured cards. But if you can get approved for options like Discover or Capital One secured cards, those usually offer better long-term value and rewards.
Deposits are easy, the only downside is the modest rewards, but for building credit, it's perfect!