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- Credit cards for fair credit
Credit cards for fair credit
If your credit score is in the fair range, you have more options than you might think. The Zable credit card is specifically designed for people who are looking to build their score.
Check your eligibility in seconds, without impacting your credit score
Get a fair, individual assessment from a trusted UK-regulated lender
Choice to link your bank account to give us a fuller financial picture
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 onlineRepresentative 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).
What counts as fair credit in the UK?
Your credit score is calculated by three main credit reference agencies in the UK: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Each uses its own scale, so your score will look different across all three, though they should broadly agree on your overall credit health.
Here is where fair credit sits on each scale:
Rating | Equifax | Experian | TransUnion |
|---|---|---|---|
Very Poor | - | - | 0 - 550 |
Poor or Low | 0 - 438 | 0 - 640 | 551 - 565 |
Fair | 439 - 530 | 641 - 860 | 566 - 603 |
Good | 531 - 670 | 861 - 1000 | 604 - 627 |
Very Good | 671 - 810 | 1001 - 1120 | - |
Excellent | 811+ | 1121 - 1250 | 628 - 710 |
If you're not sure where you stand, you can check your credit score.
Can I get a credit card with fair credit?
Yes. A fair credit score does not have to prevent you from getting a credit card.
At Zable, you can link your bank account during the application process to give us a fuller picture of your finances. This enables us to look beyond your score when making a decision, and can improve your chances of approval by up to 35%.
Cards in this category may come with a higher interest rate than those available to people with good or excellent credit. But if you can pay off your balance in full each month, you'll avoid interest altogether.
Why choose Zable?
The Zable credit card is designed for people with a range of credit histories, including fair credit.
Designed to help improve your score
Making payments on time and staying within your limit can help your score improve over time. You can track it for free in the Zable app.
Credit that grows with you
We automatically review your account for credit limit increases. If you're eligible, we’ll let you know — you choose whether to accept.
Repay instantly
Connect your bank account or debit card to repay any balances straight from the app.
No annual or overseas fees
There are no annual, foreign transaction or over-limit fees to worry about.
What should I look for in a credit card for fair credit?
1. An eligibility checker
Before applying, use a soft search eligibility checker. This shows you whether you're likely to be accepted without leaving any mark on your credit file. A full application triggers a hard search, which does show on your file.
2. APR
The APR is the yearly cost of borrowing if you carry a balance. Cards for fair credit may carry a higher APR than those for people with good or excellent credit. Always check the APR you’re quoted before completing your full application, and aim to clear your balance each month if you can.
Read our guide on credit card APRs if you want more detail on how they work.
3. Credit building features
Look for cards that let you track your score, review your limit over time, and manage everything through an app. These features make it easier to use the card responsibly and see your progress.
How can I improve my fair credit score?
A fair credit score can move into the good range with consistent, responsible behaviour over time. The most effective steps are:
Pay at least the minimum payment on time every month
Keep your credit utilisation below 25% of your available limit
Check you're registered on the electoral roll at your current address
Review your credit report regularly for any errors
For more on this, see our guide on how to increase your credit score.
FAQs about fair credit credit cards
Ready to apply?
Apply online
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