Credit Builder Card

Boost your credit score

  • Up to £1,500 credit limit
  • Use your card before it arrives
    Once approved, register to use your card details before your physical card arrives. After you've registered, you can use your details securely online. Access subject to ID checks.
  • Checking won’t affect your credit score
Check my eligibility
39.9% APR Representative (variable)
Making payments and staying within your credit limit can help build your credit. Not doing so could harm it.

Intelligent Lending Ltd (credit broker). Capital One is the exclusive lender.
Making payments and staying within your credit limit can help build your credit. Not doing so could harm it.

Intelligent Lending Ltd (credit broker). Capital One is the exclusive lender.

Ocean rated Exceptional on Feefo with over 3,379 reviews.

What is a credit builder card?

A credit builder card is a credit card designed to help people build, or rebuild, their credit score. 

They tend to come with higher interest rates and lower credit limits, but, if used responsibly, they can help you access better products over time.

If you have never borrowed before, or had issues managing credit in the past, a credit builder card could be a helpful tool to improve your credit score. 

Keep in mind, missing payments can harm your score. 

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How to apply

1

Check your eligibility

Complete our simple form.

2

We'll tell you if it's a yes

Usually in under 60 seconds.

3

If accepted

You'll receive your card within 10 days.

Your credit.
Made simple.

  • All credit histories considered 
  • Build your score with responsible use*
  • No hidden fees, ever

39.9% APR Representative (variable)

*Stay within your limit, make payments on time. Remember, not doing so could harm your score.

How to use a credit builder card

Building your credit score with a credit builder card is simpler than it sounds.

A few simple habits can help you make the most of your card.

Keep balances low

Using your card for small, steady amounts can help you stay on track. You don’t need to spend a lot to show responsible activity.

Pay on time

Making payments on time is one of the most important ways to support your credit-building journey. Setting up a Direct Debit can make this easier.

How long does it take to improve your credit score?

According to CredAbility research, you could see your credit score improve in as little as 6 months through responsible credit card use. 

Here's what could become possible when you start building: 

FIRST 6 MONTHS

Initial wins

  • Use your card responsibly 
(+95 points) 
  • Keep your card spending low 
(+40 points)
  • Register to vote 
(+60 points)

6 MONTHS - 2 YEARS

New opportunities

  • You may quality for better credit card rates
  • Mobile contracts without deposit
  • Personal loan applications get easier

2+ YEARS

Major milestones

  • You may qualify for a mortgage
  • Better loan rates
  • Premium cards available

Estimate based on CredAbility user data analysed over 6 months as of May 2025. Points earned may vary.

Check my eligibility

39.9% APR Representative (variable)

It’s all about you.

Using a credit builder card for small purchases—and paying them off in full and on time each month—can be a great way to build up your credit history. Over time, this can boost your credit score and improve your chances of getting better rates down the line.

Fiona Peake, Personal Finance Writer

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it a yes

Join over 1.5 million people accepted for credit

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35 years experience of helping with credit

Got Questions?

Credit builder cards are designed for anyone who needs to build or improve their credit history. This includes people who are new to borrowing, new to the UK, or haven't used credit before. 

They can also help if you've had past credit difficulties and want to rebuild your score. 

To apply for the Ocean Credit Card, you'll need to be 18 or over and a UK resident. 

Yes, some credit builder cards allow for credit limit increases if you demonstrate responsible use, like making payments on time and staying within your limit.  

However, a higher credit limit can lead to higher debt if not managed carefully. Only accept an increase if you’re confident you can manage it responsibly. 

Credit builder cards are designed for people with bad or limited credit histories, so there’s no strict minimum credit score.

Instead, lenders look at your overall financial situation, including your income and any recent issues like missed payments or defaults. 

Yes, there are alternatives to credit builder cards. The right one for you will depend on what you’re trying to achieve. 

  • Build credit – From adding yourself to the electoral roll, to keeping up with household bills, there are many steps you can take to improve your credit score without a credit card.
  • Access funds – To access funds, you can apply for a loan. You may be able to borrow more with a secured loan, but be aware your home will be used as security. This means if you fall behind on your secured loan or mortgage repayments, your home may be at risk. Personal loans are not secured against your home, but monthly repayments tend to be higher.
  • Consolidate debt – You can move either some or all your debt into one payment with a debt consolidation loan. This can reduce your monthly outgoings but be aware that you may be extending the term and increasing the amount you repay in total.

Missing a payment could harm your credit score and may lead to late fees or interest charges.

To avoid this, consider setting up a Direct Debit for at least the minimum payment each month. If you’re struggling, contact your lender as soon as possible—they may be able to help. 

Last updated

Reviewed by: Matt Waller

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