If you’re just starting to build credit—or recovering from a few financial setbacks—the Discover it Secured Credit Card is a smart, beginner-friendly option. Unlike many secured cards that offer limited perks, this one stands out with its cashback rewards, robust fraud protection, and even the potential to upgrade to an unsecured card down the road.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this card such a valuable tool for rebuilding or establishing credit history.
Cashback That Works for You
While most secured cards skip rewards entirely, the Discover it® Secured delivers a surprisingly strong cashback program, giving you something back on every purchase.
- 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter)
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
Best of all, Discover adds a special perk for new cardholders: Cashback Match®. At the end of your first year, Discover will match all the cashback you’ve earned—automatically and with no limits. Whether you’ve earned $50 or $200 in cashback, they’ll double it.
Cashback is applied automatically and can be redeemed at any time as a statement credit, bank deposit, or other flexible options, giving you full control over how you use your rewards.
Strong Security and Credit-Building Tools
Despite being a secured card, the Discover it® Secured offers a full suite of features typically found on traditional credit cards. Some of the highlights include:
- Free FICO® Score access every month through your online account
- Fraud monitoring and real-time alerts for suspicious activity
- Zero liability for unauthorized purchases
- Quick replacement of lost or stolen cards
One of the most powerful features for those rebuilding credit is the reporting to all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This consistent reporting ensures your responsible usage—like on-time payments and low balances—positively impacts your credit history over time.
