The Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard® is designed for individuals rebuilding their financial profile or managing fair to poor credit. Unlike secured cards, it does not require a security deposit and still allows you to earn cash back on everyday purchases. If you are looking for a way to strengthen your credit history while enjoying rewards, this card may be worth considering. In this guide, we’ll cover eligibility, application, funding, repayment, tips for responsible use, and everything you need to know before applying.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, it’s important to check if you meet the basic requirements. Fortiva positions this card as an option for those who may not qualify for prime credit products, but that doesn’t mean everyone will be accepted. Here’s what you’ll generally need:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old (21 in some states for independent applications).
- Residency: You must be a legal U.S. resident with a valid Social Security Number.
- Credit: Poor or fair credit is acceptable, but a history of recent bankruptcies or unpaid collections may reduce approval chances.
- Bank Account: Required for making payments online and setting up autopay.
- Income Proof: Employment details, monthly income, and sometimes verification documents are requested to evaluate repayment ability.
Meeting these criteria does not guarantee approval, but it does increase the likelihood that your application will move forward.
Application Process
Fortiva offers both pre-qualification and full applications through its official website. The process is straightforward, but applicants should be careful when reviewing the terms and conditions.
- Pre-Qualification: Start by checking if you have a pre-qualified offer. This typically involves a soft inquiry and won’t affect your credit score.
- Gather Documentation: Have your Social Security Number, proof of income, and bank account details ready before applying.
- Submit Application: Fill out the online application form. A hard credit inquiry is usually performed at this stage.
- Review Approval Terms: If approved, you’ll receive your credit limit and APR details. Initial limits are often between $500–$1,000, depending on your creditworthiness.
- Accept and Finalize: Confirm the terms to receive your card by mail within 7–10 business days.
Funding and First Use
Unlike a loan or secured card, there is no initial funding deposit required. Instead, once you are approved, you’ll gain access to your credit limit. Your card arrives by mail, and you must activate it before use.
Activation can be done in two ways:
- Online: Log in to the Fortiva portal, enter your card details, and follow the on-screen steps.
- Phone: Call the customer service number on the card sticker and verify your identity.
Once activated, you can begin using the card for daily purchases such as groceries, gas, utilities, and online shopping. Rewards are automatically tracked and applied according to Fortiva’s cash back program rules.
Repayment Terms
The Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard comes with a relatively high APR compared to prime cards, making repayment discipline essential. To manage this effectively:
- APR: Expect variable interest rates depending on your credit profile. Paying balances in full each month avoids interest charges.
- Fees: Annual fees and maintenance charges may apply. There is also a 3% foreign transaction fee and late payment fees up to $41.
- Payment Options: Payments can be made online, by mail, or through the mobile app.
- Credit Reporting: Payments are reported monthly to all three major credit bureaus, helping you build or repair your credit with consistent on-time payments.
Tips for Responsible Use
Maximizing the value of this card while minimizing costs requires careful financial habits. Here are some practical strategies:
- Pay your balance in full each month to avoid high interest charges.
- Keep your utilization under 30% of your available credit to protect your credit score.
- Use the card for everyday purchases you would make anyway, such as groceries and utilities, to earn cash back without overspending.
- Set up autopay or reminders to ensure payments are never missed.
- Regularly review your monthly statements to track rewards and spot any unusual charges.
Security Features
Fortiva Mastercard includes industry-standard security protections to give cardholders peace of mind:
- $0 fraud liability on unauthorized purchases.
- 24/7 fraud monitoring and alerts.
- Secure online account management with two-factor authentication.
- Monthly free credit score tracking through VantageScore 4.0 (powered by TransUnion).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does activation take? → Activation is immediate once completed online or by phone.
Does Fortiva charge an annual fee? → Yes, some versions of the card include an annual fee; check your terms carefully.
Can I increase my credit limit? → Fortiva may review your account for increases after consistent on-time payments.
Is this card good for rebuilding credit? → Yes, since it reports to all three major bureaus, it can help rebuild credit when used responsibly.
Conclusion
The Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Mastercard® is not a low-cost credit option, but it does serve an important role for consumers with limited credit options. With no security deposit required, cash back rewards, and regular reporting to credit bureaus, it provides a pathway toward stronger financial health. However, the high APR and potential fees mean that success depends on disciplined use. If you pay on time, keep your balances low, and use the rewards strategically, this card can be a stepping stone toward better credit opportunities in the future.
Disclaimer: Card terms, fees, and conditions are subject to change. Always confirm details on Fortiva’s official website before applying.
