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Juzt Credit Card Review: A New Way to Build Credit (No Deposit Required)
February 6, 2025
The Juzt Credit Card is a recently launched unsecured credit card designed for people with poor or limited credit history. It’s a “digital-first” Mastercard aimed at helping users build credit without a security deposit, making it an intriguing option for those who can’t or don’t want to put down collateral.
But does Juzt’s ease of access outweigh its costs? In this review, we’ll break down the Juzt card’s features, fees, pros and cons, how it compares to other credit-building cards, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
What Is the Juzt Credit Card?
Juzt is a Mastercard issued by The Bank of Missouri specifically created for credit-building purposes. Unlike secured credit cards, it requires no upfront deposit – Juzt extends a real line of credit. The Juzt Credit Card is marketed toward consumers with credit scores below ~600 or no credit at all, providing a pathway to start building credit. Its application process is fully digital: you can apply online or via the Juzt app and, if approved, start using a virtual card immediately (it’s compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay).
Key features include: no security deposit, a quick pre-approval with no hard credit check to see if you qualify, and instant use upon approval. Juzt also reports your payment history to at least one major credit bureau (Equifax) to help you build credit over time. In essence, Juzt is positioning itself as an accessible stepping stone for those who might otherwise only qualify for a secured card or who are looking for a second-chance credit card.
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Fees and APR – What Does It Cost?
While Juzt provides access to credit, it’s important to understand the costs involved (this is where many “easy approval” cards hit you hard). The Juzt Credit Card isn’t cheap – it’s in line with typical subprime credit card fees:
- Annual Fee: $99 annual fee, charged when you open the account and every year on your account anniversary. This immediately reduces your initial available credit.
- Monthly Fee: $0 per month in the first year, but $10 per month starting in year two. That’s an additional $120 yearly cost on top of the annual fee, totaling about $219 in fees from year two onward.
- APR: 35.99% interest rate (APR) on purchases (and cash advances). This is a very high rate. Carrying a balance on Juzt is expensive – for example, a $1,000 balance held for a year would accrue roughly $350 in interest charges. It’s advisable to pay the card in full each month if you can, to avoid these steep interest costs.
- Other fees: The card likely has a cash advance fee and possibly a one-time setup or program fee (common on some subprime cards), though these specifics aren’t highlighted in marketing. Always read the Juzt Cardholder Agreement for the full fee schedule.
Bottom line: Juzt’s fees are substantial. In year one, $99 is on par with some competitors. By year two, the effective cost $219+ annually in fees is higher than many alternatives. This is the trade-off for not requiring a deposit – the issuer makes money through fees and interest.
If you get the Juzt card, plan to use it as a credit-building tool: charge a small amount periodically, then pay it off in full. That will demonstrate good behavior to the credit bureau while minimizing interest and avoiding carrying debt on such a high APR card.
Comparing Juzt Credit Card with Other Credit Cards
When considering the Juzt Credit Card, it's helpful to compare it with other popular options in the credit builder card category:
Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa® Credit Card:
- Annual fee: $0
- Security deposit: Flexible, based on the amount transferred to Credit Builder account
- Key features: No credit check to apply, reports to all three major credit bureaus
- Standout feature: No minimum security deposit required
Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card:
- Annual fee: $0
- Security deposit: Minimum $200, which becomes your credit limit
- Key features: 1.5% cash back on most purchases, automatic credit line reviews
- Standout feature: Earn rewards while building credit
Current Build Visa® Credit Card:
- Annual fee: $0
- Security deposit: Flexible, based on the amount transferred to Build account
- Key features: No credit check required, reports to all three major credit bureaus
- Standout feature: Linked to Current banking app for easy fund transfers
Each card offers unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and preferences. Consider your personal financial goals when choosing the best card for you.
Key Takeaways:
- Juzt Credit Card excels in helping users build credit
- Chime Credit Builder offers flexibility with no minimum deposit
- Capital One Quicksilver Secured provides cash back rewards
- Current Build integrates with banking app for convenient use
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Where Juzt Stands Out and Falls Short
It’s one of the few cards in this category that’s fully digital-friendly – from application to everyday use. You can add Juzt to your mobile wallet immediately and use it online or in-store without waiting for a physical card. That convenience is great for those who are used to doing everything on their phone.
Additionally, Juzt’s use of alternative data for underwriting means even if your credit file is extremely thin or your score is very low, you have a chance. They consider things like your income and bill payment history to approve you. This approach may approve some people that even secured cards would reject.
The cost, as discussed. Also, Juzt currently reports to only one credit bureau (Equifax). Most mainstream cards report to all three bureaus. If you’re trying to build credit, you ideally want your good behavior seen by all bureaus. So while Juzt can help you build an Equifax credit history, your TransUnion/Experian files might not see that progress. This could limit the benefit when you later apply for other credit. It’s a consideration to keep in mind – and another reason some may choose alternatives.
Using Kudos to Make the Most of It
No matter which card you choose – Juzt or another – managing it wisely is key. This is where Kudos can help you out. Kudos is an AI-powered smart wallet and browser extension that helps you find and use the best credit card for each situation. In fact, Kudos’ card database covers almost all U.S. credit cards – so a new product like Juzt is likely on their radar.
Personalized Card Recommendations
If you’re not sure whether Juzt is the best option for you, Kudos’ “Dream Wallet” tool can analyze your spending and profile to suggest the ideal card matches. It won’t just push cards with commissions – it includes 95% of cards that don’t pay them, meaning the recommendations are unbiased and tailored to your benefit. You might discover that a secured card or a different unsecured card would serve you better, or it might affirm that Juzt fits your needs right now.
Maximizing Rewards and Benefits
If you do get the Juzt card (or any card), Kudos can also assist by reminding you which card to use for each purchase to maximize rewards. Now, Juzt is not a rewards card, so eventually you’ll probably move on to a proper rewards credit card. Kudos will be handy then – ensuring you never miss out on cashback or points once you have those cards. Think of it as a coach that helps you graduate from a starter card like Juzt to more rewarding cards, all while making the most of what you have now.
Credit Monitoring
Kudos also helps you keep an eye on your credit score and card balances in one place. This is crucial if you’re rebuilding credit. You can track your progress. Staying on top of your credit milestones can be really motivating, and Kudos can send you alerts and tips along the way.
Conclusion: Is Juzt Right for You?
The Juzt Credit Card can be a useful tool if you’re starting from scratch or rebuilding credit after past challenges. Its big selling point is accessibility – you can get approved without a hard credit hit and without tying up money in a deposit. For someone who needs a credit line for emergencies or to boost their credit profile and can’t get a traditional card, Juzt provides that opportunity in a matter of minutes.
However, that accessibility comes at a price. Between the $99 annual fee and monthly fees later on, you’ll pay a premium for carrying Juzt. If you have the means to put down a deposit, a secured card might actually cost you less in the long run – and still build your credit just as effectively. On the flip side, if coming up with $300 for a deposit is a non-starter, or you need a card you can use today, Juzt is there for that purpose.
Our Recommendation
Use Juzt as a stepping-stone. If you decide to get it, plan to use it for 6-12 months to establish a payment history. Keep your charges small, pay on time religiously, and perhaps avoid carrying a balance to skip the 35.99% interest. As your credit score improves, look to graduate to a card with lower fees or one that offers rewards. At that point, you might consider canceling Juzt to avoid those hefty second-year fees.
Finally, take advantage of tools like Kudos to guide you. Whether you stick with Juzt or explore alternatives, Kudos can ensure you’re making informed decisions at each step – from choosing the right card to maximizing it in daily life. Building credit is a journey, but with the right card and the right guidance, you’ll be on your way to a stronger financial future, juzt like that!
FAQ – Juzt Credit Card
Is the Juzt Credit Card legit?
Yes, the Juzt Credit Card is a legitimate unsecured Mastercard issued by The Bank of Missouri, designed specifically for building credit without requiring a security deposit.
Does the Juzt Credit Card have fees?
Yes, the Juzt Credit Card charges a $99 annual fee, plus a $10 monthly fee beginning the second year, making it more expensive compared to some secured cards.
Does the Juzt Credit Card report to credit bureaus?
Yes, Juzt reports payment history to Equifax, helping you build credit with responsible use. However, it currently reports only to one credit bureau, not all three.
Can I use the Juzt Credit Card immediately after approval?
Yes, the Juzt Credit Card offers instant approval and provides a digital card immediately upon approval, usable via mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Is the Juzt Credit Card good for rebuilding credit?
Yes, the Juzt Credit Card is specifically designed for people rebuilding or establishing credit, though its high fees and APR mean it should be used cautiously.
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Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
