7 Hardest Credit Cards to Get

Credit cards come in all shapes and sizes, but not all credit card offers are created equal. Certain credit cards — including premium rewards, travel, and invitation-only cards — may require a high credit score or meet other criteria to qualify for. Credit cards that are marketed as “hard to get” also typically come with hefty annual fees and limited availability.

Getting a credit card is easier than ever, thanks to online applications. Simply fill out your basic personal information (including your Social Security Number or ITIN) to apply, and you can receive a decision within minutes. Once your application is approved, you can pick up your new card at a local bank branch or have it delivered to you in the mail.

Behind the Velvet Rope: Unveiling the Mystery of the 7 Hardest Credit Cards to Attain

Some cards are considered hard to get, such as the Centurion Card from American Express (known more widely as the Amex Black Card). This card is by invitation only, and it’s reported that you need to be a high-net-worth individual or have a business relationship with the issuer to be invited.

Other hard-to-get credit cards include secured cards, which are designed for individuals with bad or no credit history and require an upfront security deposit in the form of cash to secure the account. Despite the higher interest rates that come with these cards, they are a great option for rebuilding and repairing your credit. And many of them offer better rewards than other cards that only require a good credit score to obtain.