Credit Builder Cards?
Looking for a credit builder card? Try a line of credit instead. Drafty offers a flexible line of credit with a maximum credit limit of £3,000. This can help you manage your unexpected financial needs. Giving you the chance to improve your credit score by always making payments on time. Drafty Flex is like a credit card but without the physical card.
Representative 96.2%APR (variable)
Representative Example: Assumed credit limit: £1,200. Representative 96.2%APR (variable). Annual interest rate 69.4% (variable).
Not all applications will be approved for credit. An offer of credit is subject to status and affordability checks.
Why Choose Drafty Over Credit Builder Cards?
Fast
Cash sent to your bank in under 90 seconds, if approved. It may take longer to reach your account depending on your bank’s processes.
Flexible repayment
As long as you repay the monthly payment, how long you borrow for is up to you. No early repayment fees.
Trusted
Rated excellent on Trustpilot with over 10,000 reviews.
Convenient
Secure online application available 24/7. An instant decision.
What Is a Credit Builder Card?
A credit builder card is a type of credit card. It can help people with a bad credit score, or no credit history improve their credit rating. These cards may have a low credit limit and high interest rates. They help by showing lenders that you can borrow responsibly and make regular payments on time.
This may improve your credit score, helping you access better financial options in the future. Credit building cards are offered by many UK banks and lenders. They may be easier to get than standard credit cards. They require you to manage your spending well. Make the minimum payment on time each month to avoid extra charges or damage to your credit history.
How Can a Credit Card Build My Credit?
Use a credit card carefully by making your monthly repayments. This can help build your credit score over time. When you make regular payments and stay within your credit limit, it shows that you can manage credit. Most credit builder cards report to credit reference agencies like TransUnion. They track your credit history and contribute to your credit scores and overall credit rating.
Paying at least the minimum payment each month and avoiding missed payments is key. The longer you use the card responsibly, the better your overall credit score can become. This could help you qualify for better financial products in the future. This can include cards with lower interest rates and higher credit limits.
Is Drafty an Alternative to Credit Builder Credit Cards?
Yes, Drafty is an alternative to credit building card. Credit building cards or credit cards for bad credit come with a low credit limit and high apr. Drafty offers a flexible line of credit. Maximum credit limit of £3,000. You only pay interest on the amount you use. There are no fees for using Drafty.
We consider people with a bad credit score or limited credit history. With Drafty, you can access money when needed. By making regular payments you can improve your credit score through responsible use.
How to Check Your Eligibility for Our Line of Credit?
Before applying for a line of credit with Drafty, you need to check your eligibility. For this you need to meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a UK resident with an active UK bank account and debit card
- Earn at least £1,250 a month
Once you’ve provided the required details, we’ll run affordability and credit checks. If approved, we’ll offer you a credit limit. You can then withdraw cash to your bank within 90 seconds*.
Representative 96.2%APR (variable)
How to Apply with Drafty, a Credit Builder Card Alternative?
Once you have checked your eligibility, you can apply online for a Drafty line of credit. For this you need to follow the below steps:
Apply
Visit our website and click on the get started button under Flex. Provide a few personal details to help us understand more about you.
Flexible payment
As long as you repay the monthly payment, how long you borrow for is up to you. It’s easy to make payments through our app.
Fast cash transfer
Use Drafty whenever you want, and we’ll send the money to your bank in 90 seconds*.
Representative 96.2%APR (variable)
How is Drafty a Better Alternative to Credit Builder Credit Cards?
Drafty offers control and flexibility without having a physical card. This allows for money transfers as needed. With a credit builder credit card, you may have:
- High interest rates
- Low credit limits
- Strict payment terms based on an assumed credit limit.
Drafty offers you a maximum credit limit of £3000. You only pay interest on the amount you use. If you borrow £100 over 30 days, it will cost you £5.70.
We consider applicants with poor credit scores. Drafty can help you manage money. You may improve your credit score without using a traditional credit building card.
Representative 96.2%APR (variable)
How Much Can I Borrow with Drafty Line of Credit?
Drafty Flex offer a maximum credit limit of £3,000. The exact limit is based on your credit profile. If approved, we’ll offer you a personal credit limit. You can borrow as little or as much as you need within that limit.
Drafty gives you a way to manage unexpected expenses. The best part? You only pay interest on what you use. Whether it’s for urgent bills or repairs, you stay in control of how much you borrow and repay.
How Do Credit Builder Cards Work?
Credit cards that can help improve your credit score are offered to people with a low or limited credit history. When you spend on the card and make regular payments, it’s reported to credit reference agencies like TransUnion. Over time, this helps to create a good credit score.
These cards come with a low credit limit and high interest rate. If you miss payments or do not meet the minimum repayment, it can damage your credit score. It’s important to use the card carefully and keep within your agreed credit limit.
Who Should Consider a Credit Building Credit Card?
Credit building cards can be helpful if you’re working to improve your credit score. You might consider one if:
You’re New to Credit
If you’ve never had a credit card or loan before, this type of card can help you start building your credit history.
You Have a Low or Poor Credit Score
If you’ve struggled with credit in the past or have a bad credit score, these cards offer a chance to build your credit.
You’ve Been Refused Other Credit Options
Many credit cards for building credit have more flexible approval criteria than other credit cards.
You’re a Student or Young Adult
If you’re just starting out, these cards can help you build a positive credit record from scratch.
You Want to Prove You Can Manage Credit
Making regular payments and staying within your credit limit shows lenders that you’re responsible.
Benefits of Using a Credit Builder Card
Using the card the right way can help improve your financial future, helping you get a better deal in the future. Here are some key benefits:
Improves Your Credit Score
Making regular payments on time helps boost your credit score over time. This can improve your chances of getting approved for other financial products.
Builds a Credit History
If you’re new to credit, using a credit builder card responsibly helps create a positive credit history.
Access to Better Financial Products
A better credit rating could lead to lower interest rates and higher credit limits on future cards or loans.
Helps With Financial Discipline
Managing a small credit limit encourages responsible borrowing and regular payments.
Reports to Credit Reference Agencies
These cards report to agencies like TransUnion, helping track and reflect your credit behaviour.
Potential Risks to Be Aware Of
While credit builder cards can help improve your credit, they also have some downsides. Keep these in mind:
High Interest Rates
Many credit builder cards charge a high annual percentage rate (APR).
Low Credit Limit
These cards come with a small credit limit, which may not cover larger expenses. Many may not offer you the option to make a balance transfer.
Risk of Missed Payments
Failing to make the minimum payment on time each month can damage your credit score.
Temptation to Overspend
Having access to credit can lead to additional purchases.
Fees and Charges
Some cards may charge fees for late payments, cash withdrawals, or going over your credit limit.
How to Use a Credit Building Credit Card Effectively?
To get the most benefit from a credit building card follow these top tips:
Always Pay on Time
Set reminders or use Direct Debit to make your monthly payments by the due date. A single missed payment can hurt your credit score.
Pay More Than the Minimum
Try to pay more than the minimum each month. This helps reduce your balance faster and saves you from paying too much interest.
Stay Below Your Credit Limit
Keeping your credit usage below your credit limit can help to indicate good financial awareness.
Check Your Statements Regularly
Keep an eye on your account to make sure there are no errors and that your spending stays in check.
Avoid Cash Withdrawals
Using your credit builder credit card for cash can lead to high fees and interest charges. Only use it for everyday spending or small purchases.
Don’t Apply for Multiple Cards at Once
Multiple credit applications that have a hard credit check may reduce your credit score briefly.
Alternatives to Credit Building Credit Cards
To get the most benefit from a credit building card follow these top tips:
Short Term Loans
Short term loans give you quick access to money when you need it. It’s important to manage your account well. They’re usually repaid within weeks or months. While interest rates can be higher, paying on time can support your credit score. These loans are suitable for covering urgent expenses. They’re an option if you’re not eligible for a credit card for building credit or other credit products.
Bad Credit Loans
Bad credit loans are for people with a low credit score. With regular repayments, these loans can help rebuild your credit profile. They’re an alternative to standard credit cards. They may allow you to access money if traditional lenders won’t approve your application.
Line of Credit
A line of credit offers ongoing access to money that you can use when needed. You only pay interest on the amount you borrow. It’s a flexible option for everyday spending or unexpected costs. Used carefully with timely payments, it can help improve your credit score without the need to apply for new loans each time.
Secured Credit Cards
Secured credit cards require an upfront deposit, which usually becomes your credit limit. They’re easier to obtain if you have a low credit score or history. These cards function like traditional credit cards. They can help build your credit score when you use them regularly. You must make monthly payments on time.
FAQs – Credit Builder Credit Cards
Is a Credit Builder Card a Good Idea?
Yes. A credit builder card can be a good idea if you have a low credit score or limited history. It can help to build your credit score through regular payments and responsible use.
Which Credit Card is Best for Building Credit?
A good credit card for building credit is one with clear terms and support for low credit scores. Compare credit cards to help you find the right one for you. Make sure they are FCA regulated and report to credit agencies.
Can I Get A Credit Building Card Without A Credit Check?
Most credit building cards involve a credit check. Some providers offer options with soft searches that don’t impact your credit score. Always check the application criteria before applying. This helps to avoid hard credit checks on your credit history.
What Happens If I’m Rejected For A Credit Builder Card?
If you get rejected, don’t apply again right away. Instead you could: Check your credit report for errors, Work on paying bills on time, Lower your current debt, Try a different type of credit product, or wait a few months before trying again.
Could Using A Credit Card Make My Credit Record Worse?
If you miss monthly payments or go over your credit limit, it may hurt your credit rating. To improve your credit score, pay on time.
How Fast Can I Increase My Credit Score?
You may start seeing changes in your credit score in a few months with on-time payments. Building credit takes time. With consistent effort, you can achieve a good credit score. Using a credit builder card and making regular repayments can help to improve your credit score over the long term.
Can I get cash from ATMs with Drafty?
No. Drafty is not a card you can use at ATMs. Instead, Drafty sends money right to your bank account. Once the money is in your bank, you can use your own bank card to get cash or make payments.
Do I need to pay a set amount each month with Drafty?
Yes. Each month, you must pay at least the minimum amount. If you pay on time, you can pick how long to keep the rest of the money. You won’t be charged if you want to pay it all back early.
Please think carefully about whether Drafty is the right solution for you. This is even more important if you're in financial difficulty. If we don't think you can afford to repay your credit, we won't be able to approve you. We'll look at your current finances and credit history before we decide whether to give you credit. Failure to repay could impact your credit file.