First Digital Nextgen – How to Apply
The First Digital NextGen Mastercard is a basic but effective tool for those who are trying to build or rebuild their credit.

It doesn’t offer flashy perks, but what it does provide is access to credit, even for those with poor or limited histories—a feature that’s increasingly hard to find without a security deposit.
This card is tailored to a very specific audience: individuals with low credit scores who want to prove their reliability to the credit system. Whether you’ve dealt with past financial setbacks or you’re simply starting your credit journey, this card offers an opportunity to start over.
It’s an unsecured credit card, meaning you don’t have to put money down to open an account. That makes it especially useful for those who may not have extra funds lying around for a deposit.
First Digital NextGen
Fast online approval High APRHow Does the First Digital NextGen Mastercard Work?
The application process is simple and takes just a few minutes online. Most applicants receive an approval decision almost instantly.
Once approved, your credit line is typically between $300 to $500 to start, though it may increase with responsible use over time.
Because the card is unsecured, it comes with higher fees to offset the lender’s risk. These include a one-time setup fee, an annual fee, and monthly servicing fees. While the costs are higher than many secured cards, the tradeoff is immediate access and no deposit.
Every month, your usage and payments are reported to the three major credit bureaus. That’s critical, because consistent on-time payments and keeping your balance low can gradually raise your credit score—often within the first 6 to 12 months of use.
There are no rewards with this card, no cash back, and no travel perks. Its main value lies in its simplicity: use it to show that you can manage credit responsibly, and you’ll open the door to more options later.
Main Benefits of the First Digital NextGen Mastercard
The standout benefit is the lack of a required deposit, which puts it ahead of many secured cards for beginners. This makes it more accessible to people who need a card now but can’t afford to lock up $200 to $500 in a security account.
The quick approval process is another advantage. There’s no need to wait days or weeks to find out if you’re approved—you’ll know within seconds, and the card arrives shortly after.
Finally, the reporting to all three credit bureaus is essential for building your score. Many alternative or niche cards don’t do this, but First Digital ensures that your responsible behavior is visible to the credit system.
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Cons of the First Digital NextGen Mastercard
There are several downsides to be aware of.
First, the fees are steep. Between the setup cost, annual fee, and monthly charges, you could easily spend more than $150 in your first year without making a single purchase. For someone looking to build credit, that cost must be weighed carefully.
Second, the initial credit limit is low, and the high APR means carrying a balance can be expensive. This isn’t a card to use for large purchases or emergencies—it’s strictly a credit-building tool.
There’s also no rewards structure, so you won’t earn anything back from your spending. For people used to cash back or points, this card will feel underwhelming.
Finally, the First Digital NextGen card is not available to everyone. You need a checking account to apply, and approval is still subject to review—though it’s much more lenient than traditional cards.
Fees and APR
- Annual Fee: $75 first year, then $48
- Monthly Fee: $0 first year, then $6.25/month
- One-Time Setup Fee: $95
- APR: 35.99% (variable)
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $41
- Returned Payment Fee: Up to $30
The First Digital NextGen card is expensive, but its value lies in accessibility, not in cost-effectiveness. It should be seen as a short-term tool, not a long-term financial solution.
How to Apply for the First Digital NextGen Mastercard
- Go to the official First Digital website.
- Select the First Digital NextGen Mastercard and click “Apply Now.”
- Complete the application with your name, address, income, and banking details.
- Review the fees and terms carefully.
- Submit your application and get an instant decision.
Once approved, your card will be mailed to you and can be used wherever Mastercard is accepted.