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What will this secured card cost?
Separate the refundable deposit from money gone. Then count every required fee for 2 years.
Short answer
Fees are the price. A refundable deposit is cash tied up.
- Count opening, annual, and monthly fees over 2 years.
- Interest is outside this total. If you may carry a balance, read the APR before you apply.
Calculate 2 years of fees
Use the card agreement. Enter zero when a required fee does not apply.
How the math works
| Example | Deposit | Year 1 | Year 2 | 2-year fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No required fees | $300 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| $35 annual fee | $300 | $35 | $35 | $70 |
| $15 opening + $59 annual + $10 monthly in year 2 | $300 | $74 | $179 | $253 |
First-year fees = opening fees + annual fee + (year-one monthly fee × 12). Second-year fees = annual fee + (year-two monthly fee × 12).
Decide whether the card fits
It may fit if
- The deposit does not weaken your cash buffer.
- Required fees are low.
- You can pay the statement balance in full.
- Reporting and deposit-return terms are clear.
Skip or pause if
- The deposit is needed for bills.
- Year-two fees rise sharply.
- You expect to carry a balance.
- The issuer will not explain the exit.
Main downside
The issuer holds your deposit, and carrying a balance can add interest. The deposit does not make the monthly bill optional.
Method and sources
The calculator adds the required fees you enter and keeps the refundable deposit separate. It does not classify fees under credit-card law. Interest and penalty fees are outside the base total. Secured-card method: 2026-08-28.1. Calculator platform: 2026-08-28.4.
- CFPB guidance on secured cards — source checked August 28, 2026.
- CFPB guidance on grace periods — source checked August 28, 2026.