The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card offers a unique approach to building credit while still earning rewards typically reserved for unsecured cards.
Aimed at those with limited credit history or looking to rebuild, this card provides a manageable path towards improving credit with controlled spending and regular reporting to major credit bureaus.
$0
1x-4x
N/A
Bad/Poor (0 – 649)
CreditFinder’s Rating: 4.3/5
Building Credit with Rewards:
The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card allows consumers to earn rewards while building or rebuilding their credit history. This secured card requires a minimum deposit of $300, which acts as the credit limit, but unlike many other secured cards, it offers reward points on every purchase:
- Dining Rewards: Earn 4 points per dollar on dining, including takeout and delivery.
- Everyday Purchases: Gain 2 points per dollar spent at grocery stores, gas stations, and on streaming services.
- General Spending: 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.
This structure not only incentivizes responsible card usage but also makes it a valuable tool for everyday spending.
Features and Benefits:
- Welcome Offer: New cardholders can earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days, a significant perk not commonly found in secured cards.
- 0% Intro APR: Enjoy no interest on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles, followed by a competitive variable APR.
- No Annual Fee: Maximize your rewards without the worry of an annual fee cutting into your benefits.
Using Rewards for More Than Just Credit Building:
Rewards earned with the U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card are versatile. Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, merchandise, or even as statement credits towards your balance. This flexibility allows cardholders to use rewards in a way that best suits their lifestyle.
Security and Management:
- Security Deposit: Like all secured cards, a refundable deposit is required. This deposit is equal to the credit limit and is standard among secured cards.
- Credit Reporting: Monthly reporting to the three major credit bureaus helps build your credit history with regular use and on-time payments.
- Controlled Spending: The credit limit set by the deposit helps prevent overspending and encourages better credit habits.
Additional Perks:
- Visa Benefits: Cardholders enjoy standard Visa benefits including fraud protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, and emergency card replacement.
- Online Banking: Manage your account online or via the U.S. Bank mobile app, making it easy to check balances, make payments, and track rewards.
Why Choose the U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card?
This card is ideal for individuals looking to improve their credit score while enjoying the perks of a rewards card. It is particularly beneficial for those who may not qualify for an unsecured card but wish to earn rewards on their everyday spending.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Credit Limitation: Your credit limit is tied to your deposit amount, which can limit your spending power compared to unsecured cards.
- Secured Card Stigma: Some may find the notion of a secured card less appealing, despite its benefits for building credit.
Conclusion:
The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Secured Visa® Card is a robust tool for those aiming to enhance their credit profile while enjoying the perks typically associated with higher-tier cards. Its reward structure, combined with the introductory offers and lack of an annual fee, makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers focused on credit improvement.
