If you’re looking for a credit card that helps you build or rebuild your credit, Merrick Bank might be on your radar. But is it the right choice?
In this 2025 review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Merrick Bank’s credit cards without the confusing jargon. We’ll explore what Merrick Bank offers, who these credit cards are best for, the key benefits and drawbacks, and how to apply so you know what to expect.
Table of Contents
What Credit Cards Does Merrick Bank Offer in 2025?
Merrick Bank currently offers two credit cards, both designed to help people with fair, poor, or limited credit history:
1. Merrick Bank Double Your Line® Credit Card
- Who it’s for: People with fair credit who want a higher credit limit over time
- Key feature: After making on-time minimum payments for the first seven months, your credit line automatically doubles
- Annual fee: Varies based on your offer
- APR: Variable, based on creditworthiness
- Credit limit: Starts at $550-$1,350 and doubles with responsible use
Why people like it: The chance to increase your credit line without requesting a limit increase manually is a huge plus for those looking to improve their credit score.
2. Merrick Bank Secured Credit Card
- Who it’s for: People with bad or no credit who need a secured option
- Key feature: You provide a security deposit, and that becomes your credit limit (starting at $200)
- Annual fee: Yes, but relatively low compared to some secured cards
- APR: Higher than average, so carrying a balance can be costly
- Credit limit: Up to $3,000 based on your deposit
Why people like it: Unlike some secured cards, this one reports to all three major credit bureaus, making it a solid tool for building credit.
Merrick Bank Credit Card Ratings
Customer feedback and expert reviews provide insight into how Merrick Bank credit cards stack up against competitors. Here are some key ratings from trusted sources:
Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Merrick Bank’s credit cards are popular for helping people with low or no credit history build better credit scores. While the interest rates may be higher, they offer helpful features like automatic credit line increases (with the Double Your Line™ Card) and easy application processes.
Customer Service: 4/5
Many customers have had positive experiences with Merrick Bank’s customer service. The support team is generally easy to reach and helpful in resolving issues, though some users have mentioned that response times can be a little slow.
Rewards: 3/5
Merrick Bank doesn’t have elaborate rewards programs like some other cards. However, it provides valuable benefits, like helping you improve your credit score and offering perks like automatic credit line increases with the Double Your Line™ Secured Credit Card.
Merrick Bank Credit Card Pros and Cons
Who Should Consider a Merrick Bank Credit Card?
A Merrick Bank credit card could be a good option if you:
- Have fair, poor, or limited credit and need a way to improve your score
- Want an automatic credit limit increase (Double Your Line® Card)
- Are comfortable with an annual fee in exchange for credit-building benefits
However, if you have good to excellent credit, you’ll likely find better credit card options with lower fees and more rewards.
How to Apply for a Merrick Bank Credit Card
Unlike many other credit card issuers, Merrick Bank does not allow you to apply directly through their website unless you have received a pre-approved mail offer. Here’s how the application process works:
- Receive a Mail Offer – Merrick Bank sends out pre-approved offers to select individuals. If you receive one, it will contain a reservation number.
- Visit the Merrick Bank Website – Go to the website, click “Accept Your Mail Offer”, and enter your reservation number to access your specific offer details.
- Review Your Offer – Your mail offer will outline your credit limit, APR, and any applicable fees.
- Submit Your Application – If you accept the offer, you will complete the application process, which includes a hard credit check.
- Fund Your Deposit (for Secured Cards) – If you are applying for the Secured Card, you must submit your security deposit before approval.
- Receive Your Card – If approved, your Merrick Bank credit card will arrive in the mail within 7-10 business days.
If you haven’t received a mail offer, you likely won’t be able to apply for a Merrick Bank credit card unless you are an existing customer who has been invited to apply.
Merrick Bank Compared to Competitors
Here’s how Merrick Bank compares to some popular competitors in the secured credit card space:
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Merrick Bank Credit Card?
If your goal is to build or rebuild credit, Merrick Bank credit cards offer solid entry-level options. The Double Your Line® feature makes it unique, and the Secured Card is a dependable choice for those with bad credit. However, be mindful of the annual fees and high APRs. If you can qualify for a no-fee, low-interest card elsewhere, that might be a better route.
If these Merrick Bank Credit Cards are not for you, check out these other credit cards for bad credit!
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Subscribe NowMerrick Bank Credit Card FAQs
1. What is the highest credit limit for Merrick Bank
With the Double Your Line™ Secured Credit Card, you could get a credit limit of up to $1,000 after 7 months of on-time payments.
2. Is Merrick Bank legit?
Yes, Merrick Bank is a legitimate and trusted financial institution, offering secured credit cards to help you rebuild or establish your credit.
3. What credit score is needed for a Merrick Bank credit card?
Merrick Bank’s secured cards are perfect for people with poor or limited credit history. You don’t need a high credit score to qualify.
4. How often does Merrick credit card give increases?
If you have the Double Your Line™ Secured Credit Card, Merrick Bank may offer an automatic credit line increase after 7 months of on-time payments.
5. How much is the Merrick Bank monthly fee?
Merrick Bank does not charge monthly fees for its secured cards. However, you will have a $36 annual fee after the first year.
6. Is Merrick Bank owned by Capital One?
No, Merrick Bank is a separate entity and is not owned by Capital One.