The U.S. Bank Altitude Go Secured Visa Card isn’t just a credit-builder card; it’s a rewards powerhouse that just happens to be one of the most accessible and effective ways to establish a strong financial history. This card is, without a doubt, a game-changer for anyone who wants to get more back from their spending on their credit journey.
Imagine earning best-in-class rewards on dining, takeout, and groceries while simultaneously proving your creditworthiness to all three major bureaus. With no annual fee and a clear path to an unsecured card, the Altitude Go Secured Visa is proof that you don’t have to compromise. Get ready to build your credit score and your points balance at the same time.
A Rewards Structure That Rivals Premium Cards
- 4X Points on Dining, Takeout, and Restaurant Delivery: This is an incredible earning rate that competes with high-end travel cards. Earn 4 points for every $1 spent on a huge range of dining options.
- 2X Points on Everyday Essentials: Keep racking up points with 2 points for every $1 spent at grocery stores (including delivery), gas stations, EV charging stations, and on eligible streaming services.
- 1X Points on Everything Else: All other eligible purchases earn a solid 1 point per dollar.
- $0 Annual Fee: This is astounding for a card with such a rich rewards program. You get all these benefits without paying an annual fee.
- Annual Streaming Credit: Receive up to a $15 credit applied to your statement each year after 11 consecutive months of streaming service purchases from providers like Netflix, Spotify, Apple Music, and more. It’s like getting a free month of service!
- Powerful Credit Building: Your responsible payment history is reported monthly to all three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion—which is essential for building a strong credit profile.
- A Clear Path to Graduation: With responsible use over time, U.S. Bank will review your account for a potential upgrade to an unsecured credit card. If you graduate, your security deposit is fully refunded.
- You Control Your Credit Limit: Your credit line is equal to your refundable security deposit, which you can set from $300 up to $5,000.
- Free Credit Score Access: Keep track of your progress with free access to your credit score through your U.S. Bank online banking or mobile app.
Who Can Apply
This card is designed to be highly accessible for those looking to build credit while earning rewards. You can apply if you:
- Are at least 18 years of age.
- Are a U.S. resident with a valid physical address.
- Have a Social Security Number.
- Can provide a refundable security deposit of at least $300.
- Have a limited, poor, or even no credit history.
How to Apply
Getting started with the U.S. Bank Altitude Go Secured Visa is a simple online process.
- Visit the U.S. Bank Website: Navigate to the official Altitude Go Secured Visa Card application page.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the secure online form with your personal, contact, and financial information.
- Fund Your Security Deposit: If approved, you will need to provide your refundable security deposit. This amount will become your credit limit.
- Receive and Activate Your Card: Once your card arrives in the mail, you’ll need to activate it. You can then begin making purchases and earning exceptional rewards while building your credit history.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this card really that much better than other secured cards?
Yes. From a rewards perspective, it’s in a class of its own. Most secured cards offer no rewards at all. The ability to earn 4x points on dining and 2x on other common categories with a $0 annual fee makes it arguably the best rewards-earning secured card available. - What is the difference between this and the other U.S. Bank secured cards?
U.S. Bank offers a few secured cards. The standard Secured Visa has no rewards but may have a lower APR. The Cash+ Secured Visa offers 5% cash back in categories you choose. The Altitude Go Secured Visa is best for those whose spending is heavily focused on dining, groceries, and gas. - How does the $15 streaming credit work?
It’s automatic. After you’ve paid for an eligible streaming service with your card for 11 consecutive months, a statement credit of up to $15 will be applied to your account within 1-2 billing cycles. - What happens to my security deposit when I “graduate” to an unsecured card?
Once U.S. Bank determines you are eligible for an unsecured card and you are upgraded, your full security deposit is refunded to you. It’s no longer needed as collateral for your account, and you get to keep the same account history, which is great for your credit score.
