Credit cards for low income & self-employed

If you're on very low or have irregular income, you may be worried you won't be accepted for credit, but this isn't always the case. There are cards specifically designed for bad credit, low income, and limited credit history. Read on to learn what options are available.

Written by Team Aqua

Published: 17/05/19Published on May 17th, 2019

Last reviewed: 29/09/23Last reviewed on September 29th, 2023

2 mins read

If you're self-employed, on a low wage, or currently unemployed, this doesn't mean you can't get access to credit. Here at Aqua, we'll look at your individual circumstances and look for reasons to give you the credit you need.

34.9% APR Representative (variable) for Aqua Classic

Credit cards for low income and unemployed people

On a low wage or zero hours contract and finding it difficult to get the credit you need? Aqua could be for you - we have customers in a wide range of circumstances and aim to give people in very different financial situations access to credit.

We understand that there are lots of reasons why you might have a low income or not currently be employed: you may be in the early stages of a business start-up, have recently returned from your travels, or be switching careers.

Whatever the reason, having a very low or irregular income doesn't mean that you won't be able to get a credit card and just because you're a low-income earner it doesn't mean that you should have to rely on expensive forms of credit or simply go without.

There are also some credit cards specifically designed for unemployed people. If you're unsure, you can get free, impartial advice about different types of credit cards from the Money Advice Service.

Credit cards for self-employed people

Working for yourself can be immensely rewarding but often involves challenges and applying for a credit card can be one of them. Even if your income isn't that low, not having a regular monthly income can be a problem for some lenders. 

We look for reasons to say “yes”, so if you're self-employed or have a fluctuating income, we'll try to help you get the credit you need.

In fact, we have said “yes” to over one million customers in the UK, many of who are self-employed and may have previously found it difficult to prove a regular or high enough income. Find out which Aqua card is right for you.

34.9% APR Representative (variable) for Aqua Classic

Worried about applying?

If you're worried about applying for a credit card, try our FREE SafeCheck Eligibility Checker. It'll give you an idea of whether you're likely to get an Aqua card, without leaving a mark on your credit file.

SafeCheck conducts a 'soft' credit check, which means that it's recorded in your credit history for you to see but not visible to other lenders and won't affect your credit score.

Full credit card applications leave a hard search footprint on your credit record, meaning lenders can see if you've applied for credit recently and if you've been turned down so, if one application is unsuccessful, it's best not to go straight to applying for another credit card or loan.

Contributors

Team Aqua

Aqua’s contributors are experts in their field, from a range of backgrounds including banking and lending.