• Cards
  • Credit card for low income earners​

Credit card for low income earners​

Even if you have low income, you may still be eligible for a Zable credit card. Check your eligibility for free without affecting your credit score.

  1. Getting a quote won’t impact your credit score

  2. Get a decision in seconds

  3. Manage your account through our app

Representative 29.9% APR (variable). Subject to eligibility. If you don't qualify, we may offer you a different card with its own terms.

Apply online

Representative example:

Based on assumed borrowing of £1200 at an interest rate of 29.9% (variable) p.a. your representative APR will be 29.9% (variable).

illustration of an outstretched hand holding a zable credit builder card
illustration of an outstretched hand holding a zable credit builder card

Why choose a credit card with Zable?

  1. Repay instantly

    You can repay any balances straight from your app by connecting your bank or debit card

  2. Track your spending

    View your balance and total spending in real time, and get instant transaction notifications

  3. Credit that grows with you

    We automatically review your account for credit limit increases and let you know if you’re eligible

  4. Manage your credit card on the go

    You can do everything from changing your PIN to freezing your card in a matter of taps.

Check if I'm eligible

What is a low income credit card?

A low income credit card is designed for people with limited earnings, who may find that standard credit cards from mainstream banks are out of reach. These cards may have lower credit limits, but by making payments on time each month, it can be possible to increase this limit over time. 

What is classed as low income in the UK?

In the UK, low income is relative. It’s defined as a household earning less than 60% of the national median (the middle point of all UK incomes), a figure that is ‘equivalised’ (adjusted) to account for different household sizes. 

In 2025, the Department for Work and Pensions reported that 21% of individuals in the UK had relative low income in 2023/24 after housing costs. This is equivalent to over 14 million people. 

At Zable, we’re proud to be able to consider applications from people who may get rejected elsewhere.

Who are credit cards for low income suitable for?

The basic eligibility criteria for a Zable card requires you to regularly get paid at least £800 per month. Remember, your income can be made up of things like a salary, a pension, and benefits. A low-income card may therefore be suitable for:

You can check your eligibility for free without impacting your credit score.

Check if I'm eligible

How to apply for a credit card with low income

You can apply for a Zable credit card in just a few simple steps. If you would like to find out more, our friendly team is on hand to answer your questions seven days a week. Alternatively, you can take a look at our Help Centre for more information.

  1. Download the Zable app or apply online

  2. Check your eligibility

    Checking your eligibility won't impact your credit score.

  3. Complete your application

    If eligible, you'll be asked to provide some more details. We'll review your information, usually within a few seconds.

  4. Start spending immediately

    Most customers can start spending right away, if eligible, using Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Download the Zable app

Tips for low income credit card applications 

Before proceeding with a full application, consider the following advice.

1. Check your eligibility before submitting a full application

An eligibility checker uses a soft search and has no impact on your credit score, even if you’re ineligible. A full application requires a hard credit check which will leave a footprint on your file and can cause a temporary dip in your score.

2. Avoid making multiple applications

Each full application for credit will require a separate hard check. Making multiple applications in a short period of time can therefore do more damage to your score than a single application.

3. See if there are steps you can take to boost your score

Those with a higher credit score are often offered more favourable terms than those with a lower score. If you have time on your side, see if there are steps you can take to improve your score before applying. If you do have a lower score, a credit builder credit card may be suitable for you.

Tips for using your low income credit card

Once you have a credit card, keep the following tips in mind.

1. Pay off your full balance each month, if you can afford to do so.

Credit cards for people with low income​ may come with a higher interest rate (APR), as they can be seen as higher risk. If this is the case for you, it can cost you more to borrow. However, if you pay off your balance in full every month, you won’t have to pay any interest at all. 

2. Consider using a spend tracking app

A spend tracking app can be particularly useful for those with lower incomes as it enables you to monitor your income and outgoings and ensure you don’t overspend.

3. Try not to ‘over-use’ your credit card

Ideally, you should use less than 30% of your total credit limit to maintain or even improve your credit score. For example, if you have a £1,000 limit, use £300 or less.

Low income credit card FAQs

Can you get a credit card with low income?

Yes, it is possible to get a credit card with low income. With Zable, you need to get paid £800 a month or more to meet our eligibility threshold.

What is the minimum salary for a credit card?

Your income does not need to be from your salary. It can include earnings from things like rent (from letting out a property), a pension, and benefits. The minimum requirement to be eligible for a Zable card is to be paid at least £800 per month.

Can I get a low income credit card if I have bad credit?

It is possible to get a credit card if you have both a low income and credit score. A credit card for bad credit may be suitable for your needs.

How many credit cards is too many for low income?

Read our guide on how many credit cards you should have for more information. Though there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ rule, generally speaking, sticking to one card can potentially help you avoid over-spending, which can be particularly important if you have low income.