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NerdUp by NerdWallet Credit Card card

NerdUp by NerdWallet Credit Card: Earn 1% Cash Back

Annual fee
None
Recommended credit
No Credit Required / Poor
Card network
Mastercard
Check before you apply: the rates, fees and offers on this page are as listed on the original card page (updated May 28, 2025) and may have changed. Confirm current terms on the issuer’s website. Best Credit Cards Guide may be compensated by some issuers; see our Advertiser Disclosure.

At a glance

The NerdUp by NerdWallet is a secured charge card designed to help build credit. The card earns 1% cash back on purchases, features a fairly low security deposit requirement, but doesn't provide any route for graduation to unsecured credit.

Our review of the NerdUp by NerdWallet Credit Card

The NerdUp by NerdWallet credit card is designed to help build credit and is issued through Evolve Bank & Trust. While NerdWallet typically focuses on Prime and Super-Prime credit cards, the NerdUp card caters to the subprime market, aligning with the trend of white-label credit card offerings.

NerdWallet Account Required

To apply for the NerdUp card, you need an active NerdWallet account, which is free to sign up for. This account provides various financial tools, including credit score monitoring and budget tracking.

No Credit Check Needed

The application process for the NerdUp card does not require a credit check but involves a “know your customer” check for compliance purposes. Applicants need to provide basic information such as their name, address, phone number, SSN, employment status, and income.

Earn 1% Cash Back While Building Your Credit

The NerdUp card offers 1% cash back on eligible purchases, which can be redeemed as a statement credit. However, certain transactions, such as balance transfers and cash advances, are not eligible for rewards.

Credit-Builder Credit Card Comparison

Comparing the NerdUp card with other secured credit cards, such as the Zolve Azpire Credit Builder Card, shows similar benefits in terms of cash back rewards and credit-building opportunities.

No Hidden Fees

The NerdUp card prides itself on not having any hidden fees, including annual fees and application fees. However, there are fees associated with ATM withdrawals, cash advances, and late payments.

World Mastercard Features

As a World Mastercard, the NerdUp card offers enhanced protections and benefits, including zero liability protection, airport concierge services, and various discounts and savings opportunities.

Should You Apply for the NerdUp by NerdWallet Card?

While the NerdUp card offers valuable benefits like cash back rewards and no hidden fees, it lacks a clear path to credit growth or graduation to unsecured credit. This may deter some applicants who are looking for long-term credit improvement strategies.

Overall, the NerdUp by NerdWallet card is a solid option for individuals dedicated to building credit through NerdWallet’s platform and are willing to manage their credit responsibly.

Card features

Benefits as listed on the original card page. They can change; confirm details with the issuer.

  • Build your credit with no credit check or interest charges
  • Earn 1% cash back on purchases
  • Use rewards to increase your deposit or offset your card bill
  • $0 annual fee

Who this card may suit

  • You are new to credit and want an easy way to begin building credit
  • You want automatic repayments to help avoid missed payments
  • You want basic cash back rewards without an annual fee

Rates, fees and terms

Rates, fees and terms as listed on the original card page (updated May 28, 2025). Confirm current terms on the issuer’s site.
Annual FeeNone
Cash Advance APR0%
Cash Advance Transaction Fee$3 per ATM withdrawal
Late Payment Penalty Fee$5
Return Payment Penalty Fee$5
Minimum Deposit Required$100

Confirm before you apply: rates, fees and offers change often. The figures above are the ones listed on the original card page, not a current quote from the issuer. APRs are typically variable, and the rate you receive depends on your creditworthiness. Recommended credit: Poor Credit Limited or No Credit.

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NerdUp by NerdWallet Credit Card

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