 TITLE: Which Store Cards Are Easiest to Get With Bad Credit? CONTENT: Take Additional Steps to Improve Your Credit\n--------------------------------------------\nBecause store cards can be easier to qualify for than general-use credit cards, getting a store card (and using it responsibly) can be a good way to build credit. However, if you're having trouble getting approved for a store card or looking for additional ways to build credit, also look into:\n*   **Secured credit cards**: Secured credit cards help you build credit the same way store and non-store cards do, but can be even easier to qualify for. Like store cards, some secured cards don't have an annual fee but do offer rewards. The catch is that you have to send the card issuer a refundable security deposit, which usually determines your card's credit limit.\n*   **Credit-builder loans**: Having a mix of revolving accounts (such as credit cards) and installment loans can also be good for your credit. As the name suggests, a credit-builder loan is an installment loan that's specifically designed to help borrowers improve their credit. Often, the loan proceeds are kept in a locked account that's unlocked when you finish paying off the loan. As a result, borrowers may improve their credit and build their savings at the same time.\nIf you already have other credit cards or loans, managing them well will also be important to improving your credit. In addition to paying your bills on time and working to pay down credit card balances, this may mean bringing past-due accounts current or working with a credit counselor to get on a debt management plan. END