If you have a credit card for low credit score of 500 or lower, you are considered to have bad credit. This means that you will have a limited number of credit options and are unlikely to be approved for many of the best credit cards.

The good news is that there are cards designed specifically for people with poor credit. These can help you rebuild your credit while enabling you to enjoy a number of benefits that will help you save money.

How to Improve Your Credit Score and Get Approved for a Credit Card

Secured cards are some of the easiest credit cards to obtain for people with bad credit. These cards require a security deposit, which reduces the risk of your account slipping into default.

A secured credit card also allows you to upgrade to an unsecured credit card with friendlier terms as your financial behavior improves. Some issuers will automatically review your account after a period of on-time payments to determine whether you are eligible for an upgrade.

Low or no annual fee (maximum under $100). A credit card for a low credit score must be free from high fees that can cost you money and affect your ability to manage the account responsibly.

Balance transfer and cash advance fees are the most common types of credit card fees that can hurt your credit score, and should be avoided at all costs. These are typically 3% to 5% of the total balance.

Avoiding these charges will reduce the cost of keeping a card and will give you more control over your credit.