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U.S. Bank Altitude Go Secured Visa Card: Tips, Rewards, FAQs & Upgrade Strategy

A secured card that rewards your lifestyle—perfect for building credit with elevated earn rates and no annual fee.

Altitude Go Secured Visa
Source: U.S. Bank Altitude Go Secured Visa

After discovering the features and benefits, it’s time to go deeper into how to maximize the value of the U.S. Bank Altitude Go Secured Visa Card. This guide will show you how to redeem points, manage your secured account wisely, and work toward an upgrade to an unsecured card—all while building a strong credit profile.

🎯 How to Use the Card to Your Advantage

The Altitude Go Secured isn’t just for credit building—it’s a rewards card too. Here’s how to unlock its full potential:

  • Use It in High-Earning Categories: Always use the card for dining and delivery (4X), grocery stores and gas stations (2X), and streaming services (2X) to maximize your points.
  • Set Up Cell Phone Payments: Pay your monthly mobile bill with the card to activate cell phone protection.
  • Monitor Your Spending: The U.S. Bank mobile app offers spending insights and allows you to schedule autopay.

💸 Redeeming Points

Points can be redeemed through the U.S. Bank Rewards Center:

  • Statement Credit: Apply points toward your balance.
  • Gift Cards: Choose from hundreds of popular brands.
  • Merchandise: Use points in the online rewards catalog.
  • Travel: Book flights, hotels, and rental cars using points.

Points never expire as long as your account is active and in good standing.

📈 Tips to Graduate to the Unsecured Card

U.S. Bank regularly reviews your account to determine if you’re eligible to transition to the unsecured Altitude Go Visa. Here’s how to accelerate that process:

1. Make On-Time Payments Every Month

Payment history is a key factor in your upgrade eligibility.

2. Use Less Than 30% of Your Credit Limit

Keep your balance low relative to your limit—this shows responsible usage.

3. Keep the Account Open Long-Term

Longevity and consistency signal stability to the issuer.

4. Monitor Your Credit Report

Track your progress with free access to your score through U.S. Bank.

5. Avoid Returned Payments or Late Fees

Even one missed or returned payment can hurt your upgrade chances.

Altitude Go Secured Visa
Source: U.S. Bank Altitude Go Secured Visa

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the minimum deposit required?

$300 minimum, but you can deposit up to $5,000 to set your credit limit.

2. Does it report to credit bureaus?

Yes. U.S. Bank reports to all three major credit bureaus monthly.

3. Can I earn rewards with a secured card?

Yes! You’ll earn points at the same rate as the unsecured Altitude Go.

4. Is the deposit refundable?

Yes, after graduating to an unsecured account or closing in good standing.

5. Is there an annual fee?

No, the card has a $0 annual fee.

6. Can I increase my credit limit later?

You may increase your deposit to request a higher limit.

7. How do I check my upgrade eligibility?

You’ll be notified via the U.S. Bank mobile app or email if eligible.

8. Are there any hidden fees?

No hidden fees. The card is transparent with no annual or foreign transaction fees.

9. What happens if I close my account?

If your account is in good standing, your security deposit will be refunded.

10. Can I add an authorized user?

Yes, but they will not help build your own credit.

🔄 Alternative Cards to Consider Later

CardWhy Consider ItAnnual Fee
U.S. Bank Altitude Go VisaUnsecured version, same rewards$0
Capital One QuicksilverOne1.5% cash back, easy to qualify$39
Discover it Chrome2% on gas & dining + cash back match$0

👤 Who Should Use This Card?

  • New to credit? Ideal for beginners needing a foundation.
  • Thin credit file? Perfect for those with no or limited credit history.
  • Credit rebuilders? Helps re-establish credit when used responsibly.
  • Rewards seekers? Earn points even while building credit.

It may not be right for:

  • People looking for balance transfers or intro APRs
  • Users wanting cash back instead of points
  • Those unwilling to make a refundable deposit

🏁 Final Verdict

The U.S. Bank Altitude Go Secured Visa Card goes beyond the basics of credit building to offer a rewarding and feature-rich experience that rivals many unsecured cards. While it’s designed to help you establish or rebuild credit, it doesn’t skimp on benefits—offering 4X points on dining, 2X on groceries, gas, and streaming services, and 1X on everything else, all without charging an annual fee.

What makes this card stand out is its ability to provide meaningful rewards and premium perks, even as a secured product. It reports to all three major credit bureaus, helping you build a strong credit history while enjoying real value on your everyday spending. 

If you’re ready to start building or rebuilding credit but don’t want to miss out on perks, the Altitude Go Secured Visa offers a rare combination of flexibility, rewards, and long-term financial potential—all designed to help you move confidently toward unsecured credit and greater financial freedom.

💡 Start with security. Graduate with rewards. Build the credit you deserve.

A credit card expert, she utilizes her expertise to create informative content on credit cards, empowering others with financial knowledge.