So I need to build back up some credit history. I tried applying for an unsecured credit card for folks with bad credit history and was denied, well THAT is not a good sign.

But at some point here I need to build a history of paying debt on time and all that jazz. So I need to look into a good secured credit card that.

Things I am looking for:

Low fees and stuff...cause if I am going to give them my money I don't want to be dinged too badly to build my credit history.

Report to the credit reporting agencies. Otherwise...whats the point?

I can have no problems funding the secured credit card with $500-$1000 and plan on using it to buy groceries each month and paying it off monthly. No problems with that since I have been diligent keeping on a budget and using a cash only system for over a year now.

How should I go about researching credit cards, what else should I look for, and what does API mean?

I would check out the Bank of America Secured Visa. The card has an annual fee of only $29 and the interest rate is very reasonable. The advantage of using this card is with responsible use over time, Bank of America will offer you an unsecured credit card. This should help you get a decent credit card and not have to open or close accounts.

Good luck!

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Credit card comparison