Credit Cards

[mt2va]

So I've just opened a secured USAA AmEx account.  I'm waiting on my card to arrive.  What should my next step be?  I want to open at least 1 more secured card maybe 2.  Should I open a USAA MC or open one with a different lender??  Or should I try to increase my deposit/CL on my USAA AmEx?

I'm trying to re-build my credit.  I have several 30 day lates and a number of charge-offs.  (I'm working on these currently)  But also trying to think ahead on how to get my credit re-built as well.  I don't have any open CC except this USAA one when it arrives in the mail. 

[flowfaster]

It is hard to say without knowing more of your credit profile. Like score, AAoA, baddies and other CC limits?

[mt2va]

My score is really bad right now.  I believe it was low 500s last time I checked.  I have no other open CC.  I have 2 closed in good standing with NFCU that I continue to pay on and several closed that were charged off and/or in collections.  (all of which I've made payment arrangements with or have settled already).  I have a current auto loan with NFCU that has 3 30 day lates but none in the last year.  I also have Sallie Mae (student loans) for over 10 years that I had a 60 day late 6 years ago.  (they won't remove through goodwill letter even though I was going through forbearance at the time). 

[Jlu]

I'd reccomend a BoA Secured card because it generally graduates into a unsecured card after 8-12 months. It will also give you the opportunity to earn rewards via 3-2-1 (3% gas, 2% groceries, 1% everything).

[mt2va]

So I'm almost ready to open my 2nd secured CC.  Someone else had mentioned getting the USAA secured MC but is it better to get my 2nd card with a different lender??  USAA seems to have very reasonable AF and interest rates so it is tempting to open a 2nd card with them but didn't know if maybe a different creditor would somehow look better.  I'm also continuing to increase my CL on my USAA AmEx card each month as well.  Also for rebuilding my credit would a 3rd secured card be recommended or is two enough to just garden for awhile as I clean up my other credit issues and some of my late payments age on my credit report?