Dear Liz: In March 2008, I applied for a secured credit card with a limit of $500 and started the path to build my credit history. I was told on the phone that after 18 months, the status of my card would be upgraded to a regular, nonsecured card. Now the issuer is telling me, “We are not upgrading secured cards after a change in policy.” What recourse do I have, bearing in mind that all my payments have been on time and in full?

Answer: Credit card issuers have become much more conservative in recent months. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. Another issuer may well welcome your business.

Check your credit scores at www.myfico.com to see where you stand. If your scores are below 680 or so, you may want to consider applying for another secured card or a small personal loan to continue building your credit. If your scores are higher, though, you may qualify for a regular card. Sites such as CardRatings.com and CreditCards.com can help you look for offers.

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