Having bad credit will make it harder to get any kind of credit, but it’s not impossible to obtain a credit card even if you don’t have a great rating. Doing a few things can help turn the odds in your favor.

First, try to apply for credit cards at smaller store in your area. Smaller stores sometimes are more willing to work with you than the larger ones at first. Once your application is accepted and you get your card, make small purchases and pay them back when they are due. If you carry a balance, try to make more than the minimum payment you will pay less interest that way.

Use your own bank or credit union to try for a card. If you already have an existing account with them they might be more willing to extend the credit.

You can apply for a secured credit card if you can’t get one any other way. You need to open a savings account with the institution to use collateral for any credit you use. Your credit line is a percentage of your account amount. You could also use pre-paid credit cards; you pre-pay any amount on your card and then make purchases using the existing funds on the card.

You can use a co-signer to obtain a credit card; as long as they also have good credit. If you get behind on your payments or default, the black mark will also end up being on their credit report too.

Always pay off your other bills even while gaining credit. If you receive other credit card offers, don’t get more than 3 cards with low limits as you can end up in trouble. Get a credit card with no annual fee; there are many out there that do not charge this. Don’t overspend on it, use cash whenever possible. If you are denied, the company has to tell you by law why. Check your credit report carefully for any negative marks.