Key takeaways

  • Most unsecured cards need about ₹15,000–₹25,000 a month. Below that, secured cards are the realistic route.
  • FD-backed cards need no income proof: IDFC FIRST EA₹N from a ₹5,000 FD, Kotak 811 from ₹10,000, SBI Unnati from ₹25,000.
  • Limits on FD cards are typically 80–90% of the deposit.
  • Six to twelve months of on-time payments can open doors to regular cards.

If you earn ₹10,000–₹20,000 a month, you can still get a credit card, and using one well is the fastest way to build a credit score for future loans. Here's what's realistic in 2026.

What income do banks want?

Entry-level unsecured cards usually need roughly ₹15,000–₹25,000 a month. For example, Flipkart Axis Bank is reported to need about ₹15,000 a month for salaried applicants, and Amazon Pay ICICI Bank about ₹25,000. Below these levels, most applications for unsecured cards are declined. But secured cards are designed for exactly your situation.

Route 1: a card against a fixed deposit (best for low incomes)

You open a fixed deposit, and the bank gives you a credit card with a limit of about 80–90% of it. No income proof is needed, and approval doesn't depend on your credit score. Your FD keeps earning interest. Examples reported in 2026:

CardMinimum FDFeesNotes
IDFC FIRST EA₹N₹5,000Check current terms1% cashback on UPI via the IDFC FIRST app, 0.5% via other apps
Kotak 811 DreamDifferent₹10,000 (181+ days)₹500 joining (incl. GST) from 1 Sep 2026, no annual feeDigital application
SBI Unnati₹25,000No fee for 4 years, then ₹499From SBI Card
IDFC FIRST WOW!Check current termsCheck current termsReported to give up to 100% of FD as limit, and travel-friendly

From issuer pages and reported terms. Confirm the details with the bank before applying.

Route 2: an add-on card

A family member with a card can add you as an add-on cardholder. It's quick and free on most cards, but it won't build your credit history. See add-on cards explained.

Route 3: your salary account bank

If your salary goes into a bank account, check that bank's app for pre-approved card offers. Banks can see your inflows, so their own customers are often approved at lower incomes than walk-in applicants.

How to build your credit score quickly

  1. Use the card a little every month, such as a mobile recharge or subscription.
  2. Pay the full amount on time, every time. Set up auto-debit.
  3. Keep usage under 30% of your limit. On a ₹10,000 FD card, that's under ₹3,000 a month. Check with our utilization calculator.
  4. Don't apply for many cards at once. Each application is a hard enquiry.
  5. After 6–12 months, check your score and try for a lifetime free unsecured card. See our guide for a ₹25,000 salary and cards for a ₹15,000 salary.

What to avoid on a low income

  • Paying only the minimum due. At about 3.5–3.75% a month, a small balance grows fast. See our interest calculator.
  • Cash withdrawals. A fee plus interest from day one. See our cash withdrawal guide.
  • Buy-now-pay-later and EMI stacking. Several small EMIs quickly become a large monthly commitment.
  • "Guaranteed approval" agents who ask for fees upfront. Genuine banks don't charge to process an application.

Is it worth it?

Yes, if you use it as a credit-building tool and pay in full every month. A year of good history on a small FD-backed card can make the difference when you later apply for a bike loan, a home loan or a better card. Check your options any time with our eligibility calculator.

A simple plan for your first year

  • Month 1: open an FD-backed card with a small deposit you won't need for a year. Set up auto-debit for the full amount.
  • Months 2–6: put one or two regular bills on the card and pay in full. Check your credit report once for accuracy.
  • Months 6–12: as your score builds, check pre-approved offers from your salary bank, or apply for one lifetime free card.

FAQs

Can I get a credit card with a ₹10,000 salary?

An unsecured card is unlikely, but an FD-backed secured card needs no income proof. Some start with deposits as low as ₹5,000.

Does an FD-backed credit card build my CIBIL score?

Yes. It's reported like any other credit card, so on-time payments build your credit history.

Can I withdraw my FD while using the secured card?

Usually not while the card is active, because the FD is the security. You get it back after closing the card and clearing dues.

What credit limit do I get on an FD card?

Typically 80–90% of the fixed deposit amount. Some cards reportedly offer up to 100%.

Is a secured credit card worse than a normal card?

It works the same way for payments and credit history. The main differences are the lower limit (based on your deposit) and fewer premium features on some cards.

How soon can I move to an unsecured card?

Often after 6–12 months of on-time payments, especially if your income has grown. Many banks offer upgrades to existing secured cardholders.

Do FD-backed cards earn rewards?

Many do, like a regular card. Some offer cashback on UPI or online spends. Check the card's reward terms.

Sources

About the author

Deepak

Founder & Editor, CardPicker

Deepak founded CardPicker and writes and fact-checks its credit card guides, comparisons and news.

✓ Fact-checked 26 September 2026Prices, dates and card terms in this article were checked against issuer websites, official pages and news reports listed under Sources. Card figures come from our database, which is re-verified regularly. Offers change often, so confirm on the issuer's site before you buy or apply. Spotted an error? Tell us.