What is a secured credit card in India?

A secured starter credit card is issued against a Fixed Deposit placed with the bank, which acts as collateral in place of income proof or credit history. It works exactly like a regular credit card for online, offline, and UPI transactions.

Which is the best secured credit card for beginners?

The best beginner secured credit card options in 2026 include the IDFC FIRST WOW!, Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent, and SBI Unnati, all offering low or zero annual fees with guaranteed FD-backed approval. The right choice depends on your available FD amount and preferred benefits.

How does an FD-backed credit card work?

You open a Fixed Deposit with the bank, which places a lien on it as collateral, and issues a credit card with a limit of 75%–90% of the FD amount. Your FD continues earning interest throughout, and timely bill payments help build your CIBIL score steadily.

Can secured credit cards improve CIBIL score?

Yes, banks report all repayment activity to CIBIL monthly, and consistent on-time payments can show measurable score improvement within 6–12 months. Keeping credit utilisation below 30% of the limit accelerates this process further.

What is the minimum FD amount required for a secured credit card?

The best starter secured credit card options start with FD requirements as low as ₹10,000 at Kotak Mahindra Bank and ₹15,000 at Axis Bank, making them accessible for most first-time users. Minimum FD amounts vary across banks, so checking individual lender requirements before applying is advisable.

Are secured credit cards easier to get approved?

Yes, since the FD acts as collateral, banks offer near-guaranteed approval for a secured credit card in India regardless of credit score or employment status. This makes them the most accessible credit product for students, homemakers, freelancers, and first-time job holders.

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Best Secured Credit Cards in India for Beginners (2026)

Want to build your credit score from scratch? Explore the best secured credit cards in India for beginners with easy approval, fixed deposit backing, rewards, and credit-building benefits.

Anjali Singh

Assistant Manager

Published Date:May 24, 2026

Updated Date:Jun 8, 2026

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Anjali Singh

Assistant Manager

Hey there, I'm Anjali Singh. With over 6 years of experience in finance, I specialize in creating content on banking, loans, and financial planning. My goal is to simplify complex financial topics and help readers make informed decisions through my articles.

Credit Cards · May 24, 2026