The Fortiva® Mastercard® positions itself as a rare opportunity for individuals with poor or limited credit history to gain access to a legitimate unsecured credit card — no security deposit required. Designed for high-risk applicants, it offers prequalification with no impact on your credit score, making it a compelling option for those in the rebuilding phase.
While the card does come with high fees and APRs, its real value lies in offering a path to financial rehabilitation that’s often not available through traditional issuers.
How the Fortiva® Mastercard® Works
Once pre-approved, users receive an unsecured line of credit — typically ranging from $350 to $1,000, depending on creditworthiness. Unlike secured cards, there’s no deposit upfront. Fortiva reports to all three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax), which is essential for rebuilding your FICO score over time.
The card includes features such as:
- Free VantageScore® access
- Fraud liability protection
- Optional premium services (for a fee)
However, the APR is steep — around 29.99% — and there’s an annual fee plus monthly maintenance charges after the first year.
Compare Fortiva® With Other Rebuilding Cards
| Feature | Fortiva® Mastercard® | Credit One Bank® Platinum | OpenSky® Secured Visa® |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Unsecured | Unsecured | Secured |
| Annual Fee | $85–$175 (first year) | $75–$99 | $35 |
| Credit Check | Soft pull (prequalify) | Hard inquiry | No credit check |
| Security Deposit Required | No | No | Yes ($200 min) |
| Reports to Bureaus | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Ideal Use Cases
The Fortiva® card may be ideal for:
- Individuals just out of bankruptcy
- Those denied by Capital One or Discover for secured cards
- Consumers needing a credit-building tool without upfront cash
Take the case of Laura M., a 34-year-old in Texas who rebuilt her credit score from 524 to 644 in 11 months simply by using her Fortiva® card responsibly and maintaining low utilization.
Is It Worth It?
If you have exhausted secured options or lack the cash for a deposit, Fortiva® can be a bridge back to prime credit. However, users should be wary of the high cost of ownership, including:
- Maintenance fees after Year 1
- High interest rate if carrying a balance
Still, for many, the trade-off may be worth it to re-enter the credit system and eventually qualify for better financial products.
➡️ Want to maximize your approval odds and avoid hidden traps? Continue to see how apply, strategies, application tips, and insider FAQs.
