Total Visa – How to Apply
The Total Visa® Credit Card is often one of the first steps for people looking to rebuild or establish their credit history.
It’s a fully functional unsecured credit card, issued by The Bank of Missouri, that doesn’t require a high credit score to qualify. For individuals who’ve faced financial setbacks, this card can serve as a starting point toward a stronger credit profile.
Applying for the card is simple and quick. You can complete the online application in minutes and often receive a decision just as fast. This level of accessibility makes it a go-to choice for many who may have been turned down by other lenders.
Although it’s a basic card with no rewards, it offers the essential features that matter most when trying to rebuild credit—monthly reporting to all three credit bureaus, the ability to make purchases anywhere Visa is accepted, and the opportunity to show consistent, responsible usage over time.
Total Visa
Online application No rewardsHow Does the Total Visa Credit Card Work?
Once approved, cardholders receive a modest initial credit limit, typically around $300. However, that limit is subject to fees right from the start. There is a one-time program fee that must be paid before the card is issued. Additionally, the card carries an annual fee and monthly servicing fees, which are deducted from your available credit.
Despite the upfront cost, the Total Visa operates like any standard credit card. You can use it to make purchases in stores, online, and even set up recurring payments for services. What’s important is how you manage that limit: keeping your balance low and paying on time are the keys to seeing improvement in your credit score.
The card reports your activity every month to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. That means responsible use translates directly into positive credit history. Over time, this consistent behavior can help increase your score, improve your chances for better cards, and open doors to financial products that were previously out of reach.
Main Benefits of the Total Visa Credit Card
One of the biggest benefits of the Total Visa is that you don’t need perfect credit to get approved. This card was designed specifically for individuals with fair, poor, or no credit history. It offers a second chance for those who have been turned away by traditional lenders.
Another major advantage is accessibility. The application process is online, and decisions are typically delivered quickly, removing much of the anxiety and delay associated with credit applications.
In addition, your payments and usage are reported every month to the three major credit bureaus. This means that even though the card has limitations, it’s actively working for you behind the scenes to improve your credit—as long as you use it wisely.
And finally, because it’s a Visa card, you can use it virtually anywhere, which is essential for building real-world financial habits that translate to better money management overall.
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Cons of the Total Visa Credit Card
The Total Visa isn’t without its downsides. The most significant issue is the cost. Between the one-time program fee, the annual fee, and the monthly servicing fees, the card can become expensive—especially given its low credit limit.
Another drawback is the lack of rewards. Unlike many unsecured cards that offer points, cashback, or travel perks, the Total Visa is purely focused on credit building. If you’re looking for extras, this card won’t provide them.
It’s also worth noting that the interest rate is quite high, meaning that carrying a balance from month to month will rack up finance charges quickly. For this reason, the Total Visa is best used for small purchases that you can pay off in full each month.
Finally, the card may not be available in all U.S. states, so availability can be a limiting factor depending on your location.
APR and Fees
The Total Visa comes with several fees that prospective applicants should understand before applying. These include:
- One-Time Program Fee: $89 (due before card issuance)
- Annual Fee: $75 the first year, then $48 annually
- Monthly Servicing Fee: $0 for the first year, then $6.25/month ($75/year)
- APR: 35.99% (fixed)
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $40
- Returned Payment Fee: Up to $40
- Additional Card Fee: $29 annually per card
While these fees are steep, they’re typical for cards targeted at high-risk applicants. The key is to treat the card as a credit-building tool, not a long-term spending solution.
How to Apply for the Total Visa Credit Card
- Visit the Total Visa official website.
- Complete the online application form with your personal and financial information.
- Receive an instant decision in most cases.
- If approved, pay the one-time program fee to activate your card.
- Receive your Total Visa card by mail.
- Begin using the card to make small purchases and pay your balance on time to build credit.
