If you are someone who is looking to get a credit card but don’t have a good credit score or a regular income source, ICICI Bank has a great solution for you in 2025. It’s called an FD Against Credit Card, also known as a secured credit card. In this blog, let’s understand what this means, how it works, and why it could be the right choice for you.
What is FD Against Credit Card?
FD stands for Fixed Deposit. It’s a type of savings where you deposit a lump sum amount with the bank for a fixed period, and you earn interest on it. Now, when you take a credit card against an FD, you are basically getting a credit card by using your fixed deposit as security or collateral.
So, even if you don’t have a credit history or your credit score is low, the bank will still give you a credit card because your FD acts as a guarantee.
ICICI Bank’s FD Credit Card Option in 2025
In 2025, ICICI Bank continues to offer the ICICI Bank Instant Platinum Credit Card against an FD. It is a lifetime free credit card, which means you don’t have to pay any annual charges.
Key Features:
No income proof required
Lifetime free card – No joining or annual fees
Credit limit – Up to 85% of your FD amount
Minimum FD required – Rs. 10,000
Interest earned – You still earn interest on your FD
Easy application process – Apply online or by visiting the nearest ICICI Bank branch
Build your credit score – Helps you improve or build your credit profile
How It Works
Let’s say you open an FD of Rs. 20,000 with ICICI Bank. Based on that, the bank may issue you a credit card with a limit of around Rs. 17,000 (85% of FD amount). You can use this card for shopping, online payments, or any regular credit card transactions. Every month, you get a bill, and you pay it just like any other credit card.
As long as you use the card responsibly and pay your dues on time, your credit score will improve, and the bank will eventually offer you better credit products in the future.
Benefits of ICICI FD-Based Credit Card
- No Risk of Rejection: Since you are offering security in the form of an FD, the bank does not check your income or credit history strictly. So, the chances of rejection are very low.
- Build or Repair Credit Score: This card is a great way to build a credit profile for students, housewives, or people who have been denied credit cards earlier due to poor credit history.
- Earn Interest: Your FD continues to earn interest even though it is linked to a credit card.
- Rewards and Offers: ICICI Bank offers cashback, reward points, and discounts on this card just like regular cards.
- Online Access: You can track your card usage, pay bills, and manage your card through ICICI’s iMobile Pay app or internet banking.
- Convert to Unsecured Card: If you use the card well over time, the bank may offer to upgrade your card and return your FD, turning it into a regular credit card.
Things to Keep in Mind
Don’t miss payments: Even though it’s a secured card, missing payments can still harm your credit score.
FD lock-in: Your fixed deposit will be held by the bank till you close the card or convert it to an unsecured card.
Early withdrawal of FD: If you close the FD early, your card may also be canceled or limited.
Interest on card dues: If you don’t pay the full bill amount on time, interest charges will apply just like with any other credit card.
Who Should Apply?
Students above 18 years old who want to start building credit
Homemakers or freelancers without regular income proof
Salaried individuals with low or no credit score
People who want a credit card without the hassle of long documentation
How to Apply?
You can apply online through the ICICI Bank website or through the iMobile Pay app. You can also walk into the nearest branch and open a fixed deposit with the bank, and request the credit card at the same time.
Final Thoughts
Getting a credit card against an FD is a smart financial move, especially if you’re starting your credit journey. In 2025, ICICI Bank’s offering makes it even easier with minimal paperwork, lifetime free card, and added benefits. It’s a great way to enjoy the advantages of a credit card while keeping your money safe in a fixed deposit. So, if you’ve been waiting to get your first credit card, this might be the perfect opportunity!
