When to Start Applying for UnSecured Credit Cards

[Anonymous]

Hey everyone.  I would first like to thank those who provide their valuable time in assisting us that need your wise advice.

After my former spouse helped destroy my credit, a couple years ago I got two FPB Unsecure credit cards with $500 limits each. My original intent was to use them to help me get back towards improving my credit.

Unfortunately my original plan didn't pan out when my Mother was diagnosed with cancer, which caused me to use those cards for airfare, and I missed a lot of work which reduced my salary and I wasn't able to even make the minimum payments, and got behind.  I paid the balance in full/closed the account on the first, and FPB charged off the 2nd card.  I recently paid the CA the full amount plus their fees.

Last month I decided to try and improve my credit again by getting two NFCU secured cc's with $500 limits.

My myFICO was 545 in June, and yesterday it's up to 596.

I'm curious to what the minimum FICO is to get a Unsecured cc, and when I should start applying, and which cards I should try first.  I'm apprehensive about applying, because I don't want to risk the CR inquiries which would cause my FICO to drop, especially if I'm not likely to be approved anyway.

[nax]

First a big pat on the back you have been through a lot.

Your score seems ok for grabbing unsecured cards however, I would let those new cards age for around 6 months make sure they only show a 10%-30% utilization on CB then give it a shot. I'm sure more people will give a shout on this but more info may be needed, are the old cards still reporting? Have you tried to GW them?

Maybe put some thought into a store card, like Walmart if it fits in your wallet.

[Anonymous]

I appreciate the prompt feedback.

The 1st FPB CC which I paid in full after it was 120-days late.

FIRST PREMIER  517800624622XXXX  12/22/2009  $0    12/26/2013    PAYS AS AGREED $250 

The 2nd FPB CC which was turned over to CA, and I paid in full with them in June. It stills shows on my current EQI CR as unpaid.  I received a letter from FPB stating the account is paid in full.

FIRST PREMIER  517800639807XXXX  07/25/2012  $430    10/20/2013  $430    CHARGE-OFF $300 

I realize FPB would not approve me for a unsecured CC, but I don't want to deal with them again anyway.

I have not yet sent any GW letters yet, I am currently researching GW letter format. But, I will send some GW letters out soon.

Thanks again.

[nax]

Going to send you a PM suggestion.