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$0
Annual fee
0%
Intro purchase APR
for the first 6 months (then to variable)
0%
Intro balance transfer
for the first 6 months (then 16.9% variable)
16.9%
Balance transfer APR (variable)
If you’re already a member, applying for the Justice Federal Credit Union (JFCU) VISA Classic Secured Card is easy. Your application can be completed online, by phone or in person. You’ll need a membership and all of the required documents regardless of how you apply.
1. Visit the Justice Federal Credit Union’s site and find the Visa Classic Secured Card on the Credit Cards page. Click Apply Now.
2. Scroll to the bottom of the page to “Apply for loans & credit,” and click Apply Online.
3. Choose the Credit Card tab and click Apply Now on the Visa Classic Secured card box.
4. From there, either log in and apply or continue as a guest. Next, fill out your name, address, date of birth and Social Security number and other documents and information, then click Continue.
If you’d rather apply by phone, you can call the 24-hour card services line at 800-550-5328. If you’d prefer to talk to someone face to face, visit the website to find a branch near you.
Approval for this card is very likely, as there is no minimum credit score. However, credit checks are required for new users to verify your identity.
For new members, the entire membership application process and Visa approval takes about a week and a half to two weeks.
The Justice Federal Credit Union (JFCU) VISA Classic Secured Card is an affordable card, great for building — or rebuilding — your credit history. Unlike most secured cards, the Justice Federal Credit Union (JFCU) VISA Classic Secured Card offers 0% APR on purchases, balance transfers and cash advances for the first six months. With a credit limit between $100 and $5,000 and no annual fees, this card is a great pick for secured credit cards.
You must be a member of the Justice Federal Credit Union to apply. You’re eligible as a member if you’re an employee, retiree or family member of the Justice Department, Department of Homeland Security and other agencies. Learn about other eligible government branches on the JFCU site.
If you’re not affiliated with any of the organizations or companies, simply join the National Sheriffs’ Association as an auxiliary or student member for $38. Though you can expect to pay at least $153 in fees and deposits to open an account before you apply for the card.
This card has no annual or balance transfer fees and a reasonable 16.9% variable APR for all purchases after six months. The 0% introductory APR is a bonus you generally won’t see with secured credit cards, making it an amazing choice if you carry a balance while building or rebuilding credit.
JFCU comes with emergency card replacements, travel emergency and assistance, and even the option to design your own card.
Flexible credit limits are based on an initial deposit that can be as low as $100 and as high as $5,000. Once you close your account in good standing, you’ll get your deposit back.
Like most secured cards, the Justice Federal Credit Union (JFCU) VISA Classic Secured Card is designed to help you build or repair credit. The card doesn’t offer a signup bonus or rewards program, but it does offer 0% APR for 6 months. So by using the card responsibly, maintaining a low balance and making ontime payments, you can improve your credit without paying too much in fees.
Despite the rare introductory APR and lack of an annual fee, this card does have a few drawbacks. Here’s what you should watch out for if you’re considering this card:
A potential issue is that the JFCU only reports your card activity to two of the three credit bureaus — Experian and Equifax. This means that a TransUnion report may show a lower score than your Equifax or Experian. There’s not much you can do about this, and unfortunately it may affect your approval for a mortgage or other large loan, since lenders generally check with all three bureaus before approval.
Now that you’ve been approved, it’s time to start using your card. Here’s how to take advantage of your new Justice Federal Credit Union (JFCU) VISA Classic Secured Card:
The Justice Federal Credit Union isn’t rated on Trustpilot, and they’re not Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredited, though they do have a D- rating from the bureau as of October 2020.
This card is a great option for those who are looking for a lower minimum deposit and no annual fees. The introductory APR is a great selling feature, and the lack of annual and balance transfer fees make it even more attractive. Consider applying for this card if you are looking to build or rebuild credit on a budget, or explore other secured card options.