10 Best Credit Cards for Low Credit Score in India

Having a low credit score can limit your access to credit products, including credit cards. However, there are several credit cards available in India that cater specifically to individuals with poor or no credit history. These cards not only provide financial flexibility but also help improve your credit score when used responsibly. Let’s explore the 10 best credit cards for low credit score holders in India in detail.

1. SBI SimplySave Credit Card 

Key Features: 

• Reward Points: Earn 1 Reward Point for every ₹100 spent on non-fuel purchases.
• Category Bonuses: 10x Reward Points on groceries, movies, dining, and departmental stores.
• Fuel Benefits: Waiver of 1% fuel surcharge for transactions between ₹500-₹3,000.
• Annual Fee: ₹499 (waived on annual spending of ₹1 lakh).

Eligibility:

• Moderate income and basic documentation are required.
• Suitable for individuals with a low credit score and stable financial records.

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score: 

SBI SimplySave has a lenient approval process and offers generous rewards on everyday spending, making it an excellent choice for rebuilding credit.

2. HDFC Bank MoneyBack Credit Card 

Key Features: 

• Cashback Rewards: 1.5% cashback on online spending and 0.5% on other transactions.
• Reward Point Conversion: Points can be redeemed for cashback (100 points = ₹20).
• EMI Option: Convert large purchases into EMIs.
• Annual Fee: ₹500 (waived on annual spending of ₹50,000).

Eligibility: 

• Suitable for individuals with low credit scores but steady monthly income.
• Requires minimal documentation for salaried and self-employed individuals.

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score: 
The MoneyBack card offers cashback rewards and a simple approval process, making it easier for low-score holders to qualify and improve their credit.

3. ICICI Bank Instant Platinum Credit Card 

Key Features: 

• Eligibility: Issued against a fixed deposit (FD) of ₹20,000 or more.
• Zero Annual Fee: No joining or annual fee for the card.
• Reward Points: Earn points on all retail transactions except fuel.
• Security: Secured by the linked fixed deposit.

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score: 
This card is a secured credit card, meaning approval is almost guaranteed as long as you can open a fixed deposit. It’s a great option for individuals with low or no credit history.

4. Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card

Key Features: 

• Approval Against FD: Requires a fixed deposit of ₹10,000 or more.
• Flexible Credit Limit: Up to 80% of the fixed deposit amount.
• Low Fees: No annual or joining fee.
• Benefits: Earn reward points on all transactions and get fuel surcharge waivers.

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score: 

This secured credit card is an excellent way to rebuild your credit while earning rewards. The easy approval process is an added advantage.

5. BOB Financial Assure Credit Card 

Key Features: 

• Secured Card: Offered against a fixed deposit.
• Reward Points: Earn points on all purchases, redeemable for exciting offers.
• Insurance Coverage: Complimentary personal accident cover.
• Annual Fee: ₹500 (waived if FD is maintained).

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score: 

The BOB Financial Assure Credit Card is ideal for first-time credit cardholders or those with a low credit score due to its secured nature.

6. Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card

Key Features: 

• No Annual Fee: Lifetime free card.
• Approval: Issued against a Kotak 811 fixed deposit.
• Reward Points: Earn points on every transaction, which can be redeemed later.
• Fuel Benefits: Waiver of fuel surcharge.

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score: 

Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent is perfect for people with a low score, as it requires an FD for approval and offers multiple benefits without extra charges.

7. YES Bank Prosperity Rewards Plus Credit Card 

Key Features: 

• Reward Points: 6 reward points for every ₹200 spent.
• Fuel Surcharge Waiver: Up to ₹250 per month.
• EMI Option: Convert large purchases into EMIs.
• Annual Fee: ₹499.

Eligibility: 
Moderate income and basic documentation.

Offers flexibility to individuals with lower credit scores.

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score:
The Prosperity Rewards Plus card offers flexibility in repayment and allows users to enjoy basic credit card benefits while building their credit profile.

8. RBL Bank BankBazaar SaveMax Credit Card 

Key Features: 

• Cashback: Flat 5% cashback on utility bill payments.
• Fuel Benefits: 1% fuel surcharge waiver.
• Easy EMI: Convert big-ticket purchases into manageable EMIs.
• Annual Fee: ₹500.

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score: 
With its low entry requirements and utility cashback, this card is ideal for those looking to boost their credit score while saving on daily expenses.

9. IndusInd Bank Platinum Secured Credit Card 

Key Features: 

• Eligibility: Issued against a fixed deposit.
• Reward Points: Earn points on dining, shopping, and travel.
• Exclusive Privileges: Discounts on movie tickets and lifestyle purchases.
• No Annual Fee: Lifetime free card.

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score: 

The secured nature of this card ensures approval, making it a great choice for individuals aiming to improve their creditworthiness.

10. AU Small Finance Bank Altura Credit Card 

Key Features: 

• Low Credit Score Requirement: Designed for first-time and low-credit applicants.
• Reward Points: Points on every purchase, redeemable for gifts and vouchers.
• Zero Annual Fee: No annual fee for the first year.
• Insurance Coverage: Complimentary personal accident insurance.

Why It’s Ideal for Low Credit Score: 

This card is specifically tailored for individuals with limited or poor credit history, offering basic benefits without stringent eligibility requirements.

Tips for Using a Credit Card to Improve Your Credit Score 

• Pay on Time: Always pay your credit card bills before the due date to avoid late payment penalties.
• Keep Utilization Low: Use less than 30% of your available credit limit.
• Avoid Multiple Applications: Limit credit card applications to reduce hard inquiries.
• Monitor Your Credit Score: Use apps or online services to track your score regularly.

Final Thoughts 

Credit cards for low credit scores are a stepping stone to financial freedom. Secured cards, in particular, are an excellent choice, as they offer guaranteed approval and help you rebuild your credit history. By using these cards responsibly, you can improve your creditworthiness and unlock access to better financial products in the future.