Credit Card FAQ
Common Questions
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What is a secured credit card?
One of the easiest ways to build credit is with the Refresh Financial Secured Visa. A secured credit card is just like a regular credit card, except that it requires an initial deposit. The size of your deposit will be your credit limit.
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Why would I use a secured card?
Our secured Visa gives you the power to build your credit with the freedom to spend. It’s the tool you need to build credit safely, easily and affordably. One of the benefits of the Refresh Secured Credit Card is that we don't do any credit checks. Your approval is guaranteed!
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How do I see my balance?
When you sign in to the online credit card portal, you can see your available balance and your balance owing. You can also contact your Relationship Manager to confirm your balance. Your username is your email address, and you create your own password.
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How do I make a payment?
You can make a one-time payment online through the Refresh website, or make a bill payee payment through your online banking.
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How do I increase my limit?
To increase your limit, please contact your Relationship Manager to confirm that you want to increase your limit (email works best). Then you will make a payment on your account for the increased amount.
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I'm in Quebec, can I get this card?
Unfortunately, our Secured Credit Card is not available in Quebec at this time, but we are working on it!
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How long until I can expect to see results on my credit score?
We report to the credit bureaus every month. However, as a new client, it can take up to 90 days until you see the impact of our program.
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Why does it take 7-10 business days for me to get my security deposit refunded?
The deposit refund of a cancelled card (prior to activation) takes at least 7-10 business days because of the privacy and security measures that we observe before sending money.
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What ID do I need to apply for your Secured Visa?
In order to be approved for the Refresh Secured Visa, you will need to provide valid Government ID.
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I got declined, now what?
We rarely decline clients. However, if you have been declined and want to know more, please contact your designated Relationship Manager for more information or email our Care team at care@refreshfinancial.ca
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I applied but never heard back!
If you made an application but haven’t received a response from us, please send us an email at care@refreshfinancial.ca or try calling in at 1-800-746-4840.
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Does Refresh offer an unsecured credit card?
Refresh Financial does not currently offer any type of unsecured card. The Refresh Financial Secured Visa is strictly a secured credit card designed to help you build your credit easily and affordably.
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What is card processing time vs card mailing time?
Our processing period is the time it takes for us to ensure against identity theft, fraud or money laundering. Once that process is complete, your card will be mailed to you via Canada Post (which is your mailing time!) If you have any questions, please contact your designated Relationship Manager.
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Have questions about the Cash Secured Loan?
Get answers here: RefreshFinancial.ca/faqs/cslfaq
What Canadians are saying about Refresh
“I would like to thank Refresh Financial for helping me get out of a bad spot. I never thought it was possible and almost gave up on things and then I saw Refresh Financial and and gave it a try. At first I was unsure of things but to see my credit score now makes me a believer in this program.
– Aaron A
“It hasn’t even been a year yet, possibly only 6-7 months, and my TransUnion score has gone up over 100 points. That was only the tip of the iceberg as recently I was able to get a consolidation loan from my bank that allowed me to move forward and make things easier for me. Talk about second chances!”
– Angelica M
“I am now in a position where I am able to obtain credit (just bought a brand-new car and refinanced my mortgage for a fantastic rate) and it took little to no time at all. I would 100% recommend Refresh to anyone looking to rebuild credit with as little hassle as possible.”
– Cathy M
“I had not heard of a company doing such a thing before someone suggested it to me and it made sense. I am not very good at saving money and Refresh Financial helped me. I have dealt with them for years now and never had a problem. The customer service is excellent and fast.”
– Chris C
“Refresh helped me regain credit following a nasty divorce, which left me with a very poor rating. They were able to remarkably help me go from a 480 to a 600 score, in just over a year. Thank you Refresh!”
– Deb K
“I have watched my credit score jump since being with Refresh and I have already recommended it to friends and family. Thank you for helping me build my credit faster for my future and my children’s future :)”
– Heather T
“At first I was skeptical because I wasn’t getting funds upfront and had to make payments when I really needed the money. I’ve been in the program a year now and have noticed my credit has improved drastically!”
– Irene L
“I have been a client of Refresh Financial for approximately 3 years. Since being a client they have improved my credit immensely. Definitely recommend this company to anybody that needs help re-establishing credit.”
– Jason I
“I recommend this program to anyone having credit issues. At the end of the agreement, your money is refunded to you. There were times I found myself short on cash and Refresh, with permission, used a portion of my money to clear up my arrears.”
– Margaret L
“I would like to thank Refresh Financial for their professionalism, great customer service and for helping get back to a better financial situation. I have always been treated with the utmost respect.”
– Martine B
“Refresh Financial is an amazing program to help people get back on their feet. I was rock bottom with nowhere to turn. My credit was beyond poor. I would recommend them to anyone. If I can do it surely anyone else can.”
– Matthew S
“Great company to deal with for rebuilding credit, very simple process to get started. Good service if you ever have questions.”
– Mike L
“This business truly cares about its clients. The customer service is always quick to return calls or emails. Their online portal functions very well so as a customer you are always updated as you progress with your loan.“
– Phil J
“Refresh Financial has made us more aware of how to take care of our financial situation and be more responsible, and making payments on time is rewarding in the end for credit. Thank You sincerely.”
– Rocky M.
“Refresh financial is great!!! They boosted my credit score, helped me save money and helped my husband and I buy our house;) I was not only a number to them, they stayed in touch and helped me out along the way. Answered all my questions and concerns.”
– Sara B
“Refresh Financial had been exceptionally good to me! I’ve just been out on medical leave and they have accommodated me with my payments without hesitation!! I was in a really bad spot with my credit and they have helped me to try and correct it!! Bravo!”
– Shannon B
“This company has been nothing but fantastic. They have gone above and beyond to help me. This program has given me the relief and peace of mind I need. I would certainly go back to them and give them names of people who could use this.”
– Shirley K
“The financial services products are excellent for new immigrants, low-income earners and small business owners. Loans, savings and credit building all in one solution is a perfect fit to help with financial goals and stability.”
– Soraya H
“After successfully going through a credit rebuilding loan, I was able to use my built-up equity to purchase a newer vehicle and I have since been approved through a financial institution for a loan.”
– Tanya W
“I made some poor credit choices when I turned 18 and have always had this lingering thought of how am I ever going to better my score. Since being with Refresh I have realized that I took the right step towards bettering my future.”
– Taylor B
“I’m so excited I’ve joined refresh! I’ve already seen a huge increase on my credit after the first month! The staff are a delight and make this so easy to understand. I strongly recommend Refresh Financial even if you have good credit this will give you a boost and you’re saving money with the reverse loan!”
– Wayne B
