Do you need credit to get a card, but need a card to get credit? The US Bank Altitude Go Secured card is exactly what you’re looking for.
It offers the credit-building power of a secured card, but combines it with the earning potential of a mid-tier rewards card — specifically geared toward foodies and streamers.
If you’re ready to kickstart your journey to financial health without sacrificing the perks of a modern credit card, the Altitude Go Secured is a great option. Follow along and see how to apply online today!
Who issues the US Bank Altitude Go Secured Card?
As the name implies, this card is issued by U.S. Bank National Association. As one of the largest and most established financial institutions in the United States, obtaining a card from U.S. Bank carries a level of reliability and security that some newer fintech startups may lack.
Because it is a Visa® card, it is accepted globally wherever Visa is honored. This is a crucial distinction for a secured card; unlike some store-specific charge cards that only help you build credit if you shop at one retailer, the Altitude Go Secured Visa functions exactly like a traditional credit card in your mobile wallet or at a restaurant terminal.
Main benefits of the US Bank Altitude Go
The primary selling point of this card is that it doesn’t act like a secured card. Most secured options offer 1X points if you are lucky, but often offer nothing at all. The Altitude Go Secured mirrors the rewards structure of its unsecured sibling, making it a powerhouse for everyday spending.
1. Impressive rewards rates
The card is designed for how people actually spend money today. You can earn:
- 4X points on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery (on the first $2,000 spent each quarter).
- 2X points at grocery stores and gas stations (including EV charging stations).
- 2X points on streaming services.
- 1X point on all other eligible purchases.
2. $0 Annual Fee
Many secured cards charge annual fees ranging from $35 to $99 just for the privilege of holding the account. The Altitude Go Secured charges $0 annually. This allows every dollar of your rewards to go back into your pocket rather than covering the cost of the card.
3. Annual streaming credit
In a rare move for a no-annual-fee secured card, U.S. Bank offers a $15 streaming service credit. To qualify, you simply need to make eligible streaming service purchases (like Netflix, Spotify, or Disney+) for 11 consecutive calendar months.
4. A path to graduation
The ultimate goal of any secured card is to eventually move to an unsecured card. U.S. Bank monitors your activity and regularly reports your status to the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
If you spend within your limit and pay your bill on time, you may be able to automatically graduate to the unsecured U.S. Bank Altitude Go Visa Signature Card. When this happens, your initial security deposit is returned to you.
Who is the US Bank Altitude Go Secured best suited for?
While the rewards are attractive, this card isn’t for everyone. It is specifically engineered for two types of consumers:
- The Credit Builder
If you have a “thin” credit file (meaning little to no history) or a lower credit score due to past financial mistakes, this card is your entry point. Because it is a secured card, approval relies heavily on your ability to put down a refundable security deposit, making it much more accessible than standard rewards cards. - The Food and Entertainment Lover
If your budget leans heavily toward dining out, ordering DoorDash, or binge-watching series on multiple streaming platforms, this card creates immense value.
Earning 4X points on dining is a rate usually reserved for premium cards with high annual fees. If you are going to spend money on dinner anyway, you might as well build your credit score while doing it.
Required documents and criteria
Before you sit down to apply, it helps to have your information ready. The application process is digital and straightforward, but accuracy is key to avoiding delays.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you typically need to:
- Be at least 18 years old (19 in Alabama and Nebraska, 21 in Puerto Rico).
- Be a legal resident of the United States.
- Have a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
The Security Deposit
Since this is a secured card, you must fund a security deposit. This deposit acts as collateral for your credit limit.
- Minimum deposit: $300
- Maximum deposit: $5,000
- How it works: If you deposit $500, your credit limit will generally be $500. This money is held in a secured, FDIC-insured U.S. Bank savings account. It earns interest and is not touched unless you default on your payments. It is fully refundable when you close the account in good standing or graduate to an unsecured card.
Necessary Documents
Have the following on hand:
- Personal Identification: Your full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security Number (SSN).
- Contact Information: Current address, email address, and phone number.
- Financial Information: Employment status, total annual income, and monthly housing payment (rent or mortgage).
- Funding Source: The routing and account number of the bank account you will use to fund your security deposit.
Steps to apply for the US Bank Altitude Go Secured
Applying for the US Bank Altitude Go Secured Card is a simple online process that takes just a few minutes. Here is the step-by-step guide to navigating the application.
Step 1: Visit the official page
Navigate to the U.S. Bank Altitude Go Secured Visa Card page. Locate the “Apply Now” button, usually found near the top banner or the card art image.
Step 2: Fill out your personal details
The secure application form will ask for your core identity information. This includes your name, SSN, and date of birth. Ensure these match your official government documents exactly to prevent identity verification errors.
Step 3: Provide housing and income info
U.S. Bank needs to ensure you have the means to pay your bill. Enter your employment status, annual income (this can include wages, investments, or other accessible income), and your monthly housing costs.
Step 4: Configure your security deposit
You will be asked how much you want to deposit (between $300 and $5,000). You will then provide the funding account details (routing and account number). Note that the funds won’t be withdrawn immediately; the transfer usually occurs after your application is approved.
Step 5: Review terms and submit
Read through the terms and conditions, specifically paying attention to the APR and fee structures. Once you are comfortable, submit the application. In many cases, you will receive a decision within minutes.
If approved, you will be notified about when your card will arrive and when the deposit transfer will be initiated.
Apply for your US Bank Altitude Go Secured Card now!
There is no reason why building credit has to be a rewarding-free experience. The US Bank Altitude Go Secured Card proves that you can fix your financial history while still enjoying the perks of a modern lifestyle, like 4X points on your favorite takeout.
By responsibly using this card—keeping your utilization low and paying your bill on time every month—you aren’t just earning points; you are paving the way toward a stronger financial future and an eventual unsecured credit line.
If you are ready to start earning while you build, visit the U.S. Bank website today to start your application!