Credit Card Against Fixed Deposit: Beginner’s Guide (2025)

If you’re new to credit and don’t have a credit history yet, getting a credit card can feel like a challenge. Most banks require a strong credit score and steady income to approve traditional cards. But there’s a smarter way to begin: applying for a credit card against fixed deposit.

A credit card against FD is also called a secured credit card. Here, you open a fixed deposit with a bank or fintech company, and they issue a credit card with a limit linked to your FD (usually 80%–90% of deposit value). The FD acts as security, reducing risk for the bank and making approval easier even if you have zero or poor credit history.

Why Choose a Credit Card Against Fixed Deposit?

• Easy Approval: Perfect for beginners with no CIBIL score.
• Build Credit Score: Timely repayments improve your credit history and future eligibility for premium cards.
• Guaranteed Issuance: Since FD is collateral, banks rarely reject applications.
• Earn Interest: Your FD continues to earn interest while backing your credit card.
• Upgrade Path: After 6–12 months of good usage, banks may offer unsecured cards.

Best Credit Cards Against Fixed Deposit in India (2025)

Let’s look at the top secured credit cards you can get in India this year. Each has its own perks and eligibility rules.

1. SBI Advantage Plus Card

SBI offers one of the most popular secured credit cards in India. You need to open a fixed deposit with SBI, and your credit limit will be up to 85% of the FD amount. It comes with reward points, fuel surcharge waiver, and EMI options.

• FD Requirement: Minimum ₹25,000
• Credit Limit: 80%–85% of FD
• Annual Fee: ₹500 (plus taxes)
• Rewards: 1 Reward Point for every ₹100 spent

2. ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card Against FD

ICICI Bank provides its Coral card as a secured option. Along with entertainment and dining offers, you also get Payback rewards and movie ticket discounts.

• FD Requirement: Minimum ₹20,000
• Credit Limit: 85%–90% of FD
• Annual Fee: ₹500 (waived on spend milestones)
• Rewards: Earn PAYBACK points on all transactions

3. Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card

Axis Bank issues the Insta Easy Card instantly against your FD. It’s a simple card with fuel surcharge waivers and EMI conversion facilities.

• FD Requirement: Minimum ₹20,000
• Credit Limit: Up to 80% of FD
• Annual Fee: Nil (usually free)
• Rewards: 100 EDGE reward points on first spend

4. OneCard Against Fixed Deposit

OneCard is a new-age fintech credit card that’s now available as a secured option against FD (issued via SBM Bank, Federal Bank, or IDFC First Bank). The OneCard against FD is fully digital and managed via mobile app, making it a great option for young professionals who prefer app-based banking. Apply here.

• FD Requirement: Minimum ₹2,000 only (lowest in India)
• Credit Limit: 100% of FD amount
• Annual Fee: Lifetime Free
• Rewards: 1%–5% cashback on categories of your choice
• Special Feature: Metal card available, even for secured customers

5. Kotak 811 Dream Different Credit Card

Kotak Mahindra Bank offers this secured card against FD. It is targeted at young customers opening an 811 account. You get reward points, shopping offers, and fuel surcharge waiver.

• FD Requirement: Minimum ₹15,000
• Credit Limit: 90% of FD
• Annual Fee: Free
• Rewards: Earn 1 reward point per ₹100 spent

Who Should Apply for a Credit Card Against FD?

A secured credit card is ideal if:

• You are a first-time applicant with no credit score.
• Your previous credit card or loan applications were rejected due to low score.
• You want to build or repair your credit history.
• You prefer to keep your FD safe while enjoying the benefits of a credit card.

How to Use a Credit Card Against FD Smartly?

• Always pay your bills in full before the due date.
• Keep credit utilization below 30% of the limit.
• Don’t close your FD early, as it will also close your card.
• After 6–12 months of responsible usage, request the bank for an unsecured upgrade.

Final Thoughts

A credit card against fixed deposit is the easiest way to start your financial journey if you’re a beginner with no credit history. Options like SBI Advantage Plus, ICICI Coral, Axis Insta Easy, and Kotak 811 are good choices. But if you’re looking for something modern and digital-first, OneCard against FD is a fantastic option — with a very low entry barrier (just ₹2,000 FD) and lifetime free membership.

Start small, use responsibly, and within a year you’ll have a strong credit profile — opening doors to premium cards and better loans in the future.