First Progress (issued by Synovus Bank)

First Progress offers secured Visa credit cards issued by Synovus Bank, designed for consumers who want to build or rebuild their credit history. A secured credit card works by requiring you to make a cash deposit when you open the account, and that deposit is held as collateral. The amount you deposit typically becomes your credit limit. Because the deposit protects the bank if you do not pay, secured cards are available to a much broader range of applicants than unsecured cards, including those with very low credit scores or no credit history at all.

First Progress offers multiple card tiers with different annual fees and annual percentage rates. Higher-fee versions may offer lower APRs, while lower-fee versions typically carry higher rates. Choosing between tiers depends on how you plan to use the card. If you intend to pay the full balance each month and never carry a balance, the APR matters less and a lower annual fee makes more sense. If you might occasionally carry a balance, the APR becomes more important to compare.

First Progress reports payment activity to all three major credit bureaus. Responsible use including on-time payments and keeping your balance well below your credit limit can help build your credit score over time. The deposit is returned when you close the account in good standing or upgrade to an unsecured card.

Before applying, review all current card terms including the annual fee, APR, and any other charges. Compare First Progress against other secured cards from credit unions and community banks, as some offer lower fees or the opportunity to graduate to an unsecured card after a period of on-time payments. Synovus Bank, the issuing bank, is FDIC-insured.