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USAA

USAA Secured American Express® Credit Card

SecuredNo Annual FeeNo Foreign Transaction FeesBuilding CreditFair Credit

Key Features

Annual Fee$0.00
Regular APR
26.40% Variable Regular APR, Opens dialog
Other Fees
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Balance Transfer and Cash Advance fee is 5% of each transaction amount.see note 1
There is a transaction fee of 5% of the amount of each Balance Transfer, Convenience Check and Cash Advance. The Cash Advance fee is waived when you transfer funds electronically from your USAA credit card to your USAA Bank deposit account.
NetworkAmerican Express
Read the full review
Best for those with
Fair Credit

About this card

The USAA Secured American Express card is primarily a credit-building tool, and its overall rating reflects this focus. It earns a 2.6 out of 5.0. Its strengths lie in its accessibility (secured card), no annual fee, and reporting to three major credit bureaus. The USAA brand also lends credibility. However, the high APR and lack of rewards significantly limit its value. The card is best suited for those with fair or limited credit who prioritize building credit over earning rewards. Its reputation aligns with this purpose, but the high cost of carrying a balance and the absence of any rewards program hold it back from a higher rating.

2.6
Overall Rating

Pros & Cons

What's great

  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Reports to three credit bureaus

Things to consider

  • High regular APR
  • No sign-up bonus
  • No rewards

What this card offers

Other features

  • An American Express® credit card — not a prepaid or debit card
  • A credit limit that could range from $250 to $5,000, backed by an interest-earning security deposit, Opens dialog
  • Credit card activity reported to three main credit bureaus
  • If you use your card responsibly, you may qualify for an upgrade to an unsecured USAA Bank credit card
  • Rely on us — from secure logons to zero liability for unauthorized transactions.see note 2
  • Set up a variety of alerts on your mobile device to stay informed.
  • Report a lost or stolen card online or in the app.
  • Auto Rental Coverage
  • Travel Accident Insurance
  • Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage
  • Baggage Delay and Reimbursement
  • Access USAA customer service 24/7 online.
  • Take advantage of extended warranty protection on U.S. manufacturers' warranties.see note 3
  • Add your card to your phone for fast mobile payments or checkouts.
  • No Penalty APR
  • Available with: Apple Pay
  • Available with: Google Pay
  • Available with: Samsung Pay

Additional Notes

American Express is a federally registered service mark of American Express and is used by USAA Federal Savings Bank as the credit card issuer pursuant to a license.

Ratings

3.8
1.5
1
1.5
3.8