Credit Cards for Rewards
Language: English Español
This list covers cards open to new applicants whose credit-band data includes fair credit. Being listed doesn't mean you'll be approved; each issuer makes its own decision. You'll find a secured card that needs a refundable deposit, a student card that requires student eligibility, a starter card that needs no deposit and one focused on building credit, all with no annual fee. Small, regular purchases paid in full each month are how any of them helps you build a record, and some describe a path toward other cards over time. Cards appear alphabetically by name.
Not a ranking. This list comes from our card data criteria: cards open to new applicants that issuers typically aim at fair credit, i.e. our "Fair" credit band. Cards are listed alphabetically by name. Card details last reviewed October 2–3, 2026; each card page shows its own date. Confirm everything on the issuer site. Our editorial policy.
Advertising disclosure: We may earn a commission from some links on this site, but the card links here currently go straight to issuer sites (no affiliate links). We aim to recommend products based on fit for common spending patterns and responsible use—not solely on payout size. Affiliate disclosure.
Every card in our catalog that is open to new applicants and is typically aimed at people with fair credit (our "Fair" credit band). The credit band is a rough guide from issuer materials, not approval odds.
Build credit (secured / student)
Little or no rewards; focused on building credit with a path to credit line reviews.
Build credit (secured / student)
Modest cash back; a pathway into other Chase Freedom and Sapphire cards over time.
Build credit (secured / student)
Rotating 5% quarterly categories (activation and a quarterly maximum apply); 1% on everything else.
Build credit (secured / student)
Student-oriented cash back with rotating quarterly categories (activation and caps apply).
| Card | Annual fee band | Rewards type | Foreign transaction fee | Credit typically targeted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capital One Platinum Credit Card | $0 | Not a rewards card | None | Limited / building, Fair |
| Chase Freedom Rise® | $0 | Cash back | Yes | Limited / building, Fair, Good |
| Discover it® Secured Credit Card | $0 | Cash back | None | Limited / building, Fair |
| Discover it® Student Cash Back | $0 | Cash back | None | Limited / building, Fair |
New to rewards cards? Read our guide: How to choose a first rewards credit card.