Say goodbye to bad credit
Secured Mastercard® Tips, Info & FAQs
Repair your less-than-stellar credit history with our Secured Mastercard®.
Want to re-establish your credit? A Secured Mastercard® from United Texas means funds are 100% secured by your United Texas Savings Account. That means you can get all of the benefits of our Platinum Mastercard® even if you’re just starting to build credit or trying to repair a rocky credit history. With just a United Texas Savings Account, and no credit check, you can enjoy a competitive rate, get 1% unlimited cash back on net retail purchases and more!
Credit Scores 101: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure
Things you probably know: your zodiac sign, your social security number, your significant other’s date of birth. Things you may not know: your credit score.
While staying on top or your spouse’s special day will keep you out of the doghouse, it won’t help you get a home or auto loan, and it definitely won’t keep your interest rates low. Knowing your credit score, and working to improve it, can make a much bigger difference in your daily life than that daily horoscope. Here’s how to repair that credit score and keep it in good shape.
Use Your Credit
You may think you’re being smart by avoiding credit cards, turning down credit or closing your accounts, especially if you’ve been reckless in the past. But credit utilization makes up 30% of your total score. That means you can improve your score by having a few lines of credit open, even if you’re don’t use them that much. So before you pay off that credit card and shut down the account, consider leaving it open to keep that score climbing.
But Don’t Use Too Much
Did you know when it comes to the amount of available credit you should be using, there’s a magic number? Well there is, and that number is 30%. That’s the maximum amount of credit you should be using in order to keep your score healthy and high. So that means avoiding maxing out all your credit cards. Experts recommend making small purchases — like a tank of gas or some groceries — that you can easily pay down every month.
Pay Your Bills On Time
It’s a simple concept, but it’s the one that most often trips people up. Getting a little behind on payments can happen to even the most conscientious bill payers, but it’s worth it in the long term to stay up-to-date (or get caught up) in the short term. This doesn’t just include your credit card payments. This includes your utility payments, your student loans, your Gap card — every bill payment counts. And if you miss one or two, all is not lost. Every bill you pay on time helps restore your credit score.
Keep Inquiries to a Minimum
Every time you open a credit card, apply for a loan or even shop for a new apartment, that results in an inquiry on your credit score. And every inquiry on your credit history shows lenders that you’re relying on credit to fund your lifestyle…maybe a little too much. Don’t be applying for credit cards willy nilly, and think twice before you co-sign on loans for friends and family if you want to keep your credit score in good shape.
Ask an Expert
There may come a time when your credit score needs professional help. Luckily, there are credit counselors who can talk to you about the best way to manage your debt and improve your financial situation. You may not be able to turn your credit history around overnight, but making the right financial decisions over time will result in a strong credit profile and a sky-high score.
Resources
FAQs
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Do I have to pass a credit check?
No. We don’t pull credit for Secured Mastercard.
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Are there any fees associated with this Mastercard?
There are no balance transfer fees, cash advance fees, or annual fees with this Mastercard.
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How long does it take to obtain the card?
Loans are usually approved the same day, and it can take up to 7 to 10 business days to get your card.
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Can I access this card on my mobile device?
Yes, you may access your card using Online Banking, United Texas Mobile or our CardNav app.
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Do you have chip cards?
Yes, EMV cards are available.
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What is the grace period for purchases so I can avoid paying interest?
You have a 25-day grace period before interest begins to accrue.
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When are payments due?
All Mastercard payments are due on the 15th of the month.
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Do I need to notify United Texas when I am traveling?
Yes, please notify United Texas when and where you plan to be traveling. Otherwise, we might be concerned that your transactions abroad are fraudulent, and put a hold on your card.
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What do I do if my card is lost or stolen?
Call us anytime 24/7 at (210) 561-4500 or toll free at (800) 531-8456.
You can also enroll your card in the Card Security feature of the United Texas Mobile App, or our CardNav app, which both let you turn your card on and off. This can be helpful if you think you might have misplaced your card, but don’t want to cancel it yet.
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What if I suspect that there is fraud on my card?
If you think your card has been used fraudulently or you see a transaction you don’t recognize, please call (800) 531-8456, anytime 24/7.
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Do you offer ID Theft protection on your cards?
Yes, we do.
Yes, we do. We offer enhanced Mastercard ID Theft Protection. This is an automatic built-in benefit to your card to better safeguard you against possible identity theft. Visit https://www.mastercardus.idprotectiononline.com/enrollment/embedded.html to sign up.
Generali Global Assistance Inc. provides this benefit. Certain terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please see your Guide to Benefits for details or call 1-800-MASTERCARD.
Secured Mastercard® Rates & Calculator
Loan Calculator
Information and interactive calculators are made available to you as self-help tools for your independent use. We cannot and do not guarantee their accuracy or their applicability to your circumstances. We encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding all personal finance issues.
Secured Mastercard®
| Secured Mastercard® | 10.75% APR* |
*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Rate effective as of August 1, 2023.
Minimum interest charge = None.
Secured shares must equal 120% of the credit limit.
Secured Mastercard® Why United Texas
Secured Mastercard
- Low rate of 10.75% APR*
- No credit check
- 1% cash back on net retail purchases (with no caps or limits)
- No annual fee**, cash advance fees, or balance transfer fees
- Local application and approval
Testimonial
Unlike the large financial institutions, United Texas has never lost that personal touch.
David P., member since 1976
Reviews
Great Credit Union! They helped me finance my car. I was looking to build my credit up and Gordon Chin was very helpful and knowledgeable about getting me a credit card as well. I couldn't be happier with him and this CU.
Thanks for letting us know about your recent great experience at United Texas Credit Union. We're proud to be able help you finance your new car and help you with building up your credit. Thanks for your choice to be a member and we're here for you when you need us! -Karla
Review Secured Mastercard® from United Texas
Secured Mastercard® How it Works
How to apply for a new Secured Mastercard
STEP 1.
Deposit money into your savings account at United Texas.
STEP 2.
Apply for a Secured Mastercard online, in person, or over the phone.
STEP 3.
Discuss your options for repayment with a Financial Services Officer and sign your documents.
STEP 4.
Congratulations! You have a new Secured Mastercard!
Need a Hand?
More Info
Secured shares must equal 120% of credit limit.
*APR = Annual Percentage Rate.
**Minimum interest charge = None.
Lost/Stolen Card & Emergency Replacement: (800) 531-8456, anytime 24/7.
Frauds/Disputes: (800) 531-8456, anytime 24/7.