How do I … Get a secured credit card?

What you need to know

The best thing about a secured credit card is that it helps you either build or rebuild your credit. However, you must make sure the company supplying the card reports to major credit bureaus. After about a year of paying on time and reporting to the credit bureaus, most companies will extend an offer to get an unsecured card.

Be careful when shopping for a secured card. Some companies take advantage of people in this situation and may charge unnecessary extra fees.

To find a reputable lender, search through Bankrate's list of secured credit card issuers.