How much should my security deposit be for a credit card?
Rachel Davis
Updated on January 19, 2026
Most secured cards require a deposit of at least $200 or $300, although at least one card has an option for a lower deposit. Every secured card allows you to deposit more than the minimum, but most set a maximum deposit amount. Your deposit is usually equal to your credit limit.
Is your deposit on a secured credit card your credit limit?
Generally, your security deposit is equal to your credit limit. The credit card issuer may increase your credit limit after a certain time if you make on-time payments or provide an additional security deposit.
Does a secured credit card require a deposit?
Secured credit cards require a cash security deposit, while regular “unsecured” cards do not. The card issuer requires that you deposit some money — typically $200 or more — to open your secured card account. The deposit is there to protect the issuer in case you don’t pay your bill.
What is a good credit deposit?
A larger deposit makes your credit card easier to manage Let’s say you go with a smaller deposit of $200. Credit utilization is one of the most important factors in your credit score. It’s best to keep this under 20%, or 30% at most.
How long before secured card becomes unsecured?
12 to 18 months
It usually takes 12 to 18 months for a secured card to become an unsecured card, if used responsibly. Exactly how long it takes for a secured card to become unsecured depends on the card issuer, how the account is managed, and whether or not the card even has the capability of graduating in the first place.
Can you withdraw money from a secured credit card?
¨ Cardholders cannot easily withdraw the money in their savings account that is being used to secure the credit card. Withdrawing the security deposit will generally require closing the credit card account and paying off the outstanding balance and applicable fees.
How much do you have to put in for a secured credit card?
That’s because these cards require a cash deposit, which protects the card issuer in case the cardholder doesn’t pay the bill. Most secured cards require a deposit of at least $200 or $300, although at least one card has an option for a lower deposit.
Can You charge more than the deposit on a secured card?
In most cases, you can’t charge more than the deposit you put down on the card. This may sound restrictive, but try to look at the bright side. A secured card can help you manage your spending and keep you honest, since your credit limit is tied to the actual money in your account.
What’s the difference between a debit and secured card?
Secured cards are actual credit cards that allow you to borrow against a line of credit, while debit cards are a way to spend money you already have in your account. Unlike debit cards, secured cards can affect your credit. What’s the minimum amount required for a secured card deposit?
Do you have to have a security deposit to open a secured credit card?
To open a secured credit card account, you’ll have to put down a refundable security deposit. Typically, the amount of the security deposit will determine your credit limit (although some card issuers will offer a higher credit limit than your deposit).