Q: I have 3 retail credit cards and a poor credit score. I'm thinking about closing two of the accounts because I never use them. What should I do?
Find out if the retail stores where you have cards report to the credit bureaus. If they do, you can use these cards to rebuild your credit. Just be sure you pay off your bill every month and pay it by the due date. And avoid carrying a balance because most retail cards have a high interest rate.
You might also consider getting a secured credit card to help you boost your FICO score. These cards require depositing your own money as collateral, but if you choose a card that reports to the credit bureaus, you can improve your credit history.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is believed to be accurate as of the date it was written. Please keep in mind that credit card offers change frequently. Therefore, we can not guarantee the accuracy of the information in this article. Please verify all terms and conditions of any credit card prior to applying. Check our credit card database for updated terms and conditions.
This content is not provided or commissioned by American Express. Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of American Express, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by American Express. This site may be compensated through American Express Affiliate Program.
Disclaimer: This content is not provided or commissioned by Chase. Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of Chase, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by Chase. This site may be compensated through the Chase Affiliate Program.
Discover is a paid advertiser of this site.
Disclaimer: Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accurate information. See the Discover online credit card application for full terms and conditions on offers and rewards.
No Comments
- I have bad credit and I'm on unemployment benefits. I just need a low credit limit to help in emergency situations. I can pay small charges back right away. What do you recommend?
- If I am in the Chex System, can I still apply for a secured credit card?
- I have a 590 credit score. Am I considered a bad score? What would be a good credit card to help me?
- I would like to get a credit card. I have 3 retail credit cards, a car loan and a personal loan. My credit score is about 628.
- The Today Show recently said that the best credit card was the AmEx Costco, for rewards. Can you explain this card to me?
- What Is a Co-branded Credit Card?

- Credit Card Company Secrets: 5 Things "They" Don't Want You to Know
- My Credit Score Is 723. Is That Good or Bad?
- 5 Common Mistakes That Can Cripple Your Credit Score
- Which banks still offer secured credit cards?
- What's the minimum FICO credit score needed to qualify for an American Express Premier Rewards Gold Card?

