Introduction
Secured credit cards that report to all three bureaus are one of the best tools to build or rebuild your credit fast. These cards help you improve your credit score with consistent on-time payments.
If you’re trying to build or rebuild your credit, a secured credit card is one of the most effective tools available. But here’s the catch: not all secured credit cards report to all three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
In this guide, we’ll explain why reporting matters, which secured cards are best in 2025, how to use them responsibly, and common mistakes to avoid. Secured credit cards that report to all three bureaus are great tools for building or rebuilding credit quickly.
When choosing secured credit cards that report to all three bureaus, always compare annual fees, deposits, and benefits before applying.
Best Secured Credit Cards That Report to All Three Bureaus in 2025
Why Reporting to All Three Bureaus Matters
When a credit card reports to all three bureaus, your responsible usage (on-time payments, low balances) gets reflected across your entire credit profile.
If your card only reports to one or two bureaus, lenders who check the third bureau might not see your progress—limiting your chances of approval for loans, apartments, or even jobs.
How Secured Credit Cards Work
A secured credit card requires a cash security deposit (usually $200–$500). This deposit acts as collateral and becomes your credit limit.
Each month, your activity is reported to the bureaus. With responsible use, you can build a positive history and eventually upgrade to an unsecured card.
- You can find out how to boost your score more quickly with straightforward, proven strategies.
How to Use a Secured Credit Card to Build Credit (2025 Guide)
Best Secured Credit Cards That Report to All Three Bureaus (2025)
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Automatic review after 7 months for upgrade to unsecured card
Reports to Experian, Equifax, TransUnion
$0 annual fee
2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 per quarter)
Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
- Reports to all 3 bureaus
- No annual fee
- Minimum deposit as low as $49 (based on credit)
- Flexible credit line increase with responsible use
Citi Secured Mastercard®
Requires at least $200 deposit
Reports monthly to all 3 bureaus
$0 annual fee
No rewards, but strong option for beginners
OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
- Reports to all 3 bureaus
- $35 annual fee
- No credit check required for approval
- Great for people with very poor or no credit history
Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa® (Special Option)
- Reports to all 3 bureaus
- No interest, no annual fee
- Works differently: you move money into your account and spend like a debit card, but activity still reports as credit usage
How to Use These Cards to Build Credit
Make On-Time Payments
Payment history = 35% of your FICO score. Never miss a due date.
Keep Credit Utilization Low
Stay below 30% of your limit (ideally under 10%).
Start with Small Purchases
Use the card for groceries, gas, or bills—never overspend.
Monitor Your Credit Score
Use free tools like Credit Karma or Experian’s free report to track progress.
Mistakes to Avoid with Secured Credit Cards
- Paying late or missing payments
- Maxing out your card
- Closing the card too soon (before upgrading)
- Applying for multiple secured cards at once
FAQs About Secured Credit Cards Reporting to All Bureaus
Q1: How fast can I build credit with these cards?
With consistent on-time payments, 6–12 months is enough to see improvement.
Q2: Do all secured cards report to 3 bureaus?
No. Some report only to one or two—always confirm before applying.
Q3: Can I get denied for a secured card?
Yes, but approval chances are higher since you provide a deposit.
Q4: What happens to my deposit?
It’s refunded when you upgrade to an unsecured card or close the account in good standing.
If you want to build credit fast, using secured credit cards that report to all three bureaus is one of the smartest ways to do it responsibly.
Secured credit cards are one of the best tools for building credit. But the key is choosing a card that reports to all three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
By making small purchases, paying on time, and keeping your balance low, you’ll steadily improve your credit score and unlock financial opportunities.
📌 Pro Tip: Don’t close your secured card too early. Wait until you can upgrade to an unsecured card for maximum benefits.
- “If you’re just starting, check out our full guide on Best Secured Credit Cards in USA 2025.”
🏦 External Link
https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/secured-credit-cards
