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Avant Credit Card Review: Unsecured Credit Builder

Avant credit card review: Everything about pre-approvals, payments, and pesky fees.
Lauren Bedford
Author: 
Lauren Bedford
Kacper Kozicki
Editor: 
Kacper Kozicki
Deepti Nickam
Fact Checker: 
Deepti Nickam
21 mins
December 16th, 2024
Advertiser Disclosure
Avant Credit Card5.2Visitavant.com/credit-card
From $0 to $59
N/A
N/A
Fair (580–629)

The Avant Credit Card claims to be the stepping stone to credit greatness. So if you’re itching to turbocharge your credit history, this card might be your secret weapon.

It may not shower you with flashy rewards, but it’s all about laying a solid foundation for a brighter financial future.

But with sky-high interest rates and other extra fees, this card could be more of a hindrance than a help.

So, let’s find out if the Avant card aligns with your credit goals—

This article will show you:
  • What the Avant card is and how to use it.

  • If you meet the credit card requirements.

  • How Avant compares to other cards.

Read more:

Avant Credit Card at a Glance

Full name: Avant Credit Card

Best for: Those with fair scores looking to boost their credit

Issuer: WebBank

Required credit score: 580+

What is the Avant Credit Card?

The Avant credit card can help you take control of your spending and build your credit score. With this card, you’ll have the power to spend at thousands of locations worldwide and boost your credit line.

And even with less-than-perfect credit, you can still get approved. Avant considers a range of factors when evaluating your application, not just your score.

So, if you want to establish or rebuild your credit, this card could be a good fit for you.

You can also spend on the go with the Avant mobile app, where you can easily manage your account, track your expenses, and make payments.

But before diving in, don’t forget the dreaded fees. The Avant card has an APR between 30.24% and 35.24%, much higher than the average of 24.54% cit@tation.

It also comes with annual and late fees—so don’t skip over this when calculating your expenses.

How does Avant Credit Card work?

The Avant credit card works like a standard credit card. You can make purchases anywhere a Mastercard is accepted, in-store and online.

When you receive your card, you’ll get a credit limit, which can range from $300 to $3,000. Your limit is based on your financial records and determines your spending power.

A $300 limit is pretty low, but after showing good credit behavior, you can request a higher limit by contacting customer service.

A big perk of the Avant card is its potential to increase your credit score. Avant reports your credit card activity to all three credit bureaus, so your responsible credit behavior won’t go unnoticed.

Remember

Make on-time payments and keep your credit utilization low to build a solid foundation for your financial future.

Read more:

Avant Credit Card: Quick Summary Review

Let’s start with a simple overview:

APR

30.24% Variable

Annual fee

$59

Intro offer

N/A

Standard rewards rate

N/A

Maximum rewards rate

N/A

Overall rating

2.6/5

Learn more

Avant Credit Card Fees

The Avant card comes with some eyebrow-raising fees:

FEE

DETAIL

Annual fee

$39

Processing fee

$0

Monthly maintenance fee

$0

APR

30.24%–35.24%

APR for cash advances

30.24%–35.24%

Balance transfer fee

N/A

Cash advance fee

$10 or 3% of the amount of the cash advance, whichever is greater

Foreign transaction fee

$0

Late fee

Up to $39

Minimum interest charge fee

No less than $1

Returned payment fee

N/A

Over limit fee

N/A

Additional card fee

N/A

Avant Credit Card: Pros & Cons

Let’s see how the Avant credit card benefits stack up against the drawbacks:

  • Easy credit approval.
  • No foreign fee.
  • No security deposit.
  • Chance to pre-qualify.
  • Potential credit score boost.

Pros: What We Like

Easy credit approval

The Avant card has a more inclusive approach to credit approval, accepting those with credit scores of 580 or higher.

So, if you’ve faced some financial hiccups in the past, no worries. Avant lets you prove your creditworthiness and improve your score over time.

No foreign fee

Love to travel or shop internationally? The Avant credit card has no foreign transaction fees.

You can swipe your card around the globe without worrying about extra charges and sip your Italian espresso without any unwelcome surprises.

Check out the top travel credit cards.

No security deposit

Credit cards for those with bad credit often ask for a security deposit as collateral. But with the Avant card, you can wave goodbye to that extra burden.

Instead, you’ll just need to pay the annual fee of $39, which is much more affordable.

For more options, check out these unsecured cards:

Chance to pre-qualify

If you’re curious about your approval odds, Avant lets you take the first step without committing to the full application.

Through their pre-qualification process, you can see if you meet the eligibility requirements without affecting your credit score.

Potential credit score boost

The Avant credit card can be a valuable tool in your credit-building arsenal as it reports to all three credit bureaus.

Remember

By consistently making on-time payments and keeping your credit utilization in check, you’ll be on track to boost your credit score over time. This opens doors to better interest rates, loan approvals, and more favorable financial opportunities down the road.

Read more:

Cons: Things to Consider

Annual fees

If you visit the Avant card site, they make it clear that you need to pay an annual fee of $39. But if you dig a little deeper, their Cardholder Agreement says this fee could go up to $59.

While this may not break the bank, it’s essential to consider this cost when evaluating the overall value of the card.

High APR fee

Let’s talk about the APR (Annual Percentage Rate). The Avant credit card’s APR ranges from 30.24% to 35.24%, which is higher than other cards on the market.

If you carry a balance, this steep APR can result in major interest charges. Be mindful of this and try to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid getting caught up in the interest whirlpool.

Credit Card Payoff Template for Excel

Lay out your credit card debt with the minimum payments and interest to see how long it will take to pay off!

What you will get:

  • Interactive dashboard

  • Customizable to your needs

  • Stay on track with charts and graphs

  • Suitable for up to 16 or 32 debts!

High cash advance APR

Another big downside of the Avant credit card is the high cash advance APR, which ranges from 30.24% to 35.24%.

If you use your credit card for a cash advance, such as withdrawing cash from an ATM or transferring funds to a bank account, you’ll be hit with a high-interest rate.

Low $300 minimum credit limit

The Avant card has a low minimum credit limit of $300. While this may be enough for everyday expenses, you should evaluate if this limit aligns with your spending habits.

You can request a higher limit (up to $3,000) but this isn’t guaranteed as it depends on your creditworthiness.

No rewards

The Avant card doesn’t offer a traditional rewards program. So you won’t earn cashback, points, or miles for your spending.

Unfortunately, this tends to be the norm with cards for poor or fair credit. But if you boost your score, you can graduate to a better card packed with rewards.

Check out the Petal 2 card if you want more rewards.

Avant Credit Card: Things to Know

Where can I use my Avant credit card?

You can use the Avant card practically anywhere you can use a Mastercard, which is widely accepted around the globe.

It’s welcomed in over 210 countries around the world cit@tion. And without foreign transaction fees the Avant Credit Card will have you covered whether you’re exploring the markets of Marrakesh or splurging online.

You can use your card at ATMs to get cash through the cash advance feature. However, cash advances are limited to 25% of your credit limit.

And then there are the fees, which will be $10 or 3% of the cash transaction amount (whichever is greater).

Remember

The interest on cash advances starts accruing immediately, so it’s wise to repay the amount as soon as possible to minimize the interest charges.

What’s the Avant card credit score requirement?

To be eligible for the Avant credit card, you should have a FICO credit score of 580 or more.

Your credit score is a reflection of your creditworthiness. So with a score over 580, you showcase a decent level of responsible credit habits, which increases your chances of being approved.

Remember

Credit score requirements can vary and aren’t the only factor for credit card approval. Avant also considers other aspects, such as your income, credit history, and debt obligations. If you don’t meet the exact credit score requirement, it doesn’t mean you’re out of the game.

Maintaining a healthy credit score can boost your chances for financial success. A FICO score of over 580 opens doors not only to the Avant credit card, but also to other favorable financial opportunities.

Read more:

How do I pay for my Avant credit card online?

To make payments for your Avant card, you have a couple of options to choose from.

First, you can register your account with Avant. Once that’s done, you can choose between two payment methods: AutoPay or one-time payments.

If you prefer a hands-off approach, set up AutoPay and let the magic happen. They will automatically deduct recurring payments from your registered account on your specified dates. (No more worrying about missing due dates or late fees.)

But if you like to be in control, go for one-time payments. Simply log in to your Avant account and initiate payment on the date of your choice. It’s as easy as a few clicks, and you’ll be able to pay up exactly when you want to.

And if you’re old-school and prefer the traditional method, you can send a paper check or money order payment to the following address:

Avant, LLC

PO Box 1429

Carol Stream, IL 60132-1429

Just make sure to include some important information on the check: your full name as it appears on your statement and the last four digits of your credit card account number.

When you make a payment, it might initially show as “pending” while it goes through overnight processing. Rest assured, if you make your payment before 5:00 p.m. CT, it will be credited on the same day.

What is the Avant credit card limit?

The minimum credit limit is $300, but this can shoot up to $3,000 (depending on your credit habits and history).

Your credit limit determines the amount of purchasing power, but Avant offers some flexibility.

If you want to increase your limit, you have two options: You can patiently wait for periodic reviews where Avant may consider increasing your credit line. Or, you can take matters into your own hands and call them at 1-855-AVANTCARD to request a line increase.

Remember

Your approval for credit line increases can depend on various factors, such as your credit habits and financial information. A higher limit isn’t guaranteed.

But what if you’re looking to go in the opposite direction? If you want to decrease your credit line, reach out to an Avant card customer specialist and they’ll help you make that adjustment.

And if you accidentally venture beyond your credit limit, Avant card won’t hit you with over-limit fees. They do, however, recommend bringing your outstanding balance below the credit limit to keep you in their good books.

Choose your spending wisely, manage your credit responsibly, and enjoy the freedom that comes with a well-utilized credit line.

Does Avant credit card offer pre-approval?

Yes, Avant offers pre-approval for their credit card.

This allows you to check if you meet the initial criteria for approval without affecting your credit score.

Pre-approval is all about saving time and avoiding unnecessary credit inquiries. By taking advantage of this, you can see your chances of getting approved for their card before officially applying. This helps you make an informed decision and saves you from disappointment or multiple credit inquiries.

Remember

Pre-approval is not a guarantee of final approval, as additional factors are considered during the official application process. But it serves as a helpful initial step to assess your eligibility.

To check if you qualify for the Avant credit card, head to their pre-approval page.

Just provide some basic information, then you’ll receive your pre-approval status. It’s a quick, convenient, and smart move if you’re considering the Avant credit card.

Is Avant a good credit card?

The Avant card can be a handy option if you’re trying to build credit and have struggled to get your hands on other credit cards.

Their pre-approval process is a convenient way to gauge your chances of approval, and their AutoPay and one-time payments help you stay on top of your finances.

But if you tend to carry a balance, you might want to keep your distance, as the Avant card comes with steep interest charges between 30.24% and 35.24%.

Another downside is the low minimum credit limit of $300, which doesn’t give you a ton of flexibility.

Ultimately, whether the Avant is a good credit card depends on your individual needs and priorities, so carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision.

Take a look at more credit cards for those with bad credit.

Avant Credit Card Customer Reviews

Despite its steep fees, the Avant card has received a generally positive response online.

On Trustpilot, the card has an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 24,939 customer reviews.

One customer said, “While the cost of this card is high, it’s driven towards challenged credit situations with the ability to raise your credit score. The simple app lets you see your transactions and pay your bill quickly.

Others commented on how easy it is to get a credit limit increase, “Avant card is one of the best credit cards available for all. I got this card about six months ago and have never had a problem using it across the world. After six months, I requested to increase my limit, and they approved it right away.

But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows, “One of the worst and unethical credit card companies out there. From a $2,500 credit limit, within three months of use, my credit limit reached $300 with one late payment reported for no reason.

Many of the reviews of Trustpilot are about Avant’s loan services. So if you want information about the card, just use the filter options and type in a keyword.

How Does the Avant Credit Card Compare?

Avant Credit Card

2.6

Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa®

4.4

Capital One Platinum Credit Card

3.5

Annual fee

$59

Ranges from $0–$59

Annual fee

$0

Annual fee

$0

Rewards

N/A

Rewards

1%–10%

1% cash back on eligable purchases immediately. Up to 1.5% afer 12 on-time monthly payments. From 2% to 10% at select merchants.

Rewards

N/A

Intro offer

N/A

Intro offer

N/A

Intro offer

N/A

Learn more

Learn more

Learn more

Here are some top tips for choosing a credit card—

Examine whether the card’s rewards scheme fits your preferences and whether it is consistent with your financial goals. Make sure it meets your needs and financial circumstances by carefully reading the terms and conditions.
Andrew Pierce, Founder of Real Estate Holding Company, LLC

Read more:

Is the Avant Credit Card Good For Me?

Here’s who the card is best suited for:

  • For those looking to establish or improve their credit history.

  • Cardholders who prefer options like AutoPay and one-time payments.

  • Individuals who want to pre-qualify.

Ultimately, the Avant credit card is a credit-building option. It may not come with all the fancy frills and rewards, but it lets you climb the ladder, open doors, and graduate to a better card.

However, if you have got a track record of carrying a balance, you might want to avoid this one. And since Avant card reports your credit activity, make sure you can make on-time payments, or your credit score could take a hit.

So, take your time, assess your priorities, and make a choice that aligns with your financial journey.

FAQ

Who owns Avant credit card?
What is the highest credit limit for the Avant credit card?
How long does it take to get my Avant credit card?
Does Avant credit card offer cash advances?
Can I use my Avant credit card before it arrives?
How to check the balance on Avant credit card?
How do I contact Avant credit card customer service?

Sources

See all

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Contributors

Lauren Bedford
Lauren is a published content writer and journalist. In the last five years, she has written about a range of subjects, including business, technology, and finance. She was born in June 1994 in the UK, but relocated to Barcelona five years ago. Initially covering topics like business and technology, Lauren is now dedicated to her position as a personal finance journalist and is always keen to keep learning and evolve as a finance writer.
Kacper Kozicki
Kacper is an editor, writer, and multilingual translator with expertise in producing tailored content for global online brands.
Deepti Nickam
Fact Checker
Deepti Nickam
Deepti is a content writing and marketing professional with 5+ years of experience in the B2B and B2C sectors. She has written about several subjects, including finance, project management, human resources, and more.
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