Struggling with bad credit can pose challenges, especially when it comes to qualifying for a credit card.
However, the First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card steps in to provide a solution.
This card is one among three secured card offerings by First Progress, issued by Synovus Bank. All these options are designed to aid you in rebuilding your credit.
The Platinum Select Card, in particular, boasts an impressive APR and a reasonable annual fee, setting it apart from much of its competition.
Let’s delve into a detailed exploration of the First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card to ascertain if it aligns with your financial needs.
Exploring the Pros and Cons
Pros
- Low APR for a secured cardThe First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card offers a remarkably low APR compared to other secured cards, making it an attractive option for those looking to manage their finances efficiently.
- Reasonable annual feeWith an annual fee of $39, this card provides a manageable cost structure for cardholders, enhancing its appeal.
- Credit Building OpportunityThis card can serve as a stepping stone in building or rebuilding your credit, offering a pathway towards financial stability.
Cons
- Annual FeeThe card does come with a $39 annual fee, which might be a consideration for some individuals.
- Foreign Transaction FeeIt’s important to note that the card imposes a foreign transaction fee, which could add to the cost of using it outside the country.
A Detailed Analysis of the Current Card Offer
Quick Highlights
- Rewards Rate: N/A
- Welcome Offer: N/A
- Annual Fee: $39
- Purchase Intro APR: N/A
- Balance Transfer Intro APR: N/A
- Regular APR: 19.24 percent (variable)
Current Welcome Offer
Presently, the First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card does not feature a welcome offer for new sign-ups.
Typically, secured credit cards don’t offer rewards programs or welcome bonuses.
However, this card’s primary advantage lies in its potential to help build credit, paving the way for future access to unsecured cards with enticing sign-up bonuses.
Highlighting the Benefits
No Credit Check: When applying for a credit card, a credit inquiry is a standard procedure.
However, with the First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card, no such inquiry takes place during the application process, safeguarding your credit score.
Credit Score Improvement: By consistently making monthly payments on this secured card, your payment history is reported to the major credit bureaus.
Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Timely payments contribute positively to building your credit score over time.
Manageable Annual Fee: While an annual fee is a requisite for all First Progress cards, the Select variant maintains a reasonable annual fee of $39.
This fee, although not the lowest among the three First Progress cards, is offset by the substantially lower APR.
Low APR: An exceptional feature of this card is its relatively low interest rate of 19.24 percent variable APR, uncommon for a secured card.
Despite being classified as a riskier customer due to the nature of secured cards, this offering by First Progress defies the norm with its lower APR.
Progress Towards a Higher Credit Line: The First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card requires an initial minimum cash deposit of $200 to determine your credit limit.
As you make timely payments and potentially increase your cash deposits, you can gradually work your way up to a credit limit of up to $5,000.
Rates and Fees
The APR for this card stands significantly lower than most secured credit cards at 19.24 percent variable.
However, an annual fee of $39 is applicable. For international usage, a 3 percent foreign transaction fee is charged.
Additionally, maintaining a minimum $200 deposit is necessary to retain your credit limit. Regrettably, there are no rewards or welcome offers accompanying this card upon sign-up.
A Comparative Analysis
When comparing the First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card with other secured credit card options, two alternatives worth considering are the Discover it® Secured Credit Card and the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card.
- Discover it® Secured Credit CardThis card offers the advantage of no annual fee, distinguishing it from the First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card. However, it comes with a higher APR at 28.24 percent variable.
- Capital One Platinum Secured Credit CardSimilar to the Discover it® Secured Credit Card, this card also waives an annual fee. However, it presents a higher APR at 30.49 percent variable, making it less appealing in terms of interest rates.
In summary, while the First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card carries a modest annual fee, its significantly lower APR and potential for credit limit growth set it apart from its competitors, making it a promising choice for those seeking to rebuild their credit.
In conclusion, understanding the nuances of secured credit cards and comparing their features is crucial in making an informed financial decision.
The First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card certainly offers compelling advantages that can aid in your journey towards financial stability.
