First Digital Card Review: Unsecured Fee-filled Bad Credit Card
The First Digital Mastercard is an unsecured credit card for those with bad or limited credit. It offers easy approval but comes with high fees and a 35.99% APR, making it costly for long-term use.
March 22, 2025 22:29
First Digital Card Review: Unsecured Fee-filled Bad Credit Card
Credit Basics
The First Digital Mastercard from Synovus Bank offers less than most other credit cards for restricted or bad credit. Being an unsecured card, the First Digital Mastercard does not demand a deposit either for usage or credit limit definition. Though there are no benefits or prizes connected with it, Mastercard is accepted anywhere.
The key advantage of the First Digital Mastercard is that it gives those with minimal credit history or poor credit the chance to establish their credit free from paying a deposit. Most candidates will be authorized as the First Digital Mastercard approval process is quick and easy.
One drawback of the First Digital Mastercard is its cost of usage. First Digital is among the most costly, even in comparison to other unsecured credit cards for fair or low credit.
Ratings
Rewards: 0/10
Additional Benefits: 1/10
Annual Fee: 8/10
Welcome Offer: 0/10
Ease of Approval: 9/10
APR: 0/10
Card Details
Welcome Gift: None
Annual Fee: $75 for the first year; then, $48
Reward Rate: None
Credit Reporting: Reports to all three major credit bureaus
Our Review Approach
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Essentially, the First Digital Mastercard is meant for those who might not have any credit history or who have bad credit and would not be accepted for another kind of credit card. Beyond those individuals, this card would appeal very little.
Card Overview
The First Digital Card is straightforward. Most applicants will be authorized for at least a $300 credit limit; the approval procedure is simple. Making small purchases and repaying quickly can help avoid a high APR and potentially qualify for a better card in the future.
Although the First Digital card is a Mastercard and accepted widely, it does not offer rewards or cashback.
First Digital Card Fees
The primary drawback of the First Digital Card is its high fees, which include:
Annual Fee: $75 for the first year, then $48
One-time Program Fee: $95
Monthly Servicing Fee: $6.25 per month (charged after the first year, totaling $75 annually)
Credit Limit Increase Fee: 25% of the approved increase
Late Payment Fee: $40
Returned Payment Fee: $40
Cash Advance Fee: $10 or 3% of the advance (whichever is greater)
Who Should Consider the First Digital Card?
This card may be suitable for:
Individuals with minimal or poor credit history looking for an easy approval process.
Users who want to build a positive payment history through monthly credit bureau reporting.
People with limited spending habits, as the initial credit limit is low.
Who Should Avoid the First Digital Card?
This card is not ideal for:
Those who carry a balance, due to its high 35.99% APR.
Applicants who qualify for better cards with lower fees and better perks.
Frequent travelers, as it cannot process foreign currency transactions.
Users seeking higher credit limits, as increases come with a 25% fee.
First Digital Card: Pros & Cons
Pros
Easy approval for individuals with bad or limited credit.
No security deposit required (unsecured card).
Reports to all three major credit bureaus.
Quick application process with possible approval in minutes.
Cons
High APR of 35.99%, making it one of the most expensive bad-credit cards.
Multiple fees, including a program fee, annual fee, and monthly servicing fees.
No rewards, cashback, or perks.
Low initial credit limit with costly increase fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score is needed for approval?
The card is designed for individuals with poor or limited credit, so approval chances are high.
How much does the First Digital Card cost?
Various fees apply, including an annual fee, program fee, and servicing fees.
When is the annual fee assessed?
The first year's fee is charged upon activation, and the ongoing fee is billed annually afterward.
Can I apply for the First Digital Card online?
Yes, applications are available online with quick approval decisions.
