First Progress Platinum Select Mastercard Secured Credit Card Review
This credit card is one of three secured cards offered by First Progress issued by Synovus Bank, and all of them can help you rebuild your credit.
4 min read
Sep 04, 2025
Garrett Yarbrough
Writer, Credit Cards
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5Years with Bankrate
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100+Publications written
EXPERTISE
- Credit card
- Rewards credit cards
- Credit card comparisons
- Balance transfer credit cards
- Building credit
EDUCATION
- Bachelor of Arts in English, Certification in Business and Technical Communication, Creative Writing minor | East Carolina University
- Bachelor of Arts in History | East Carolina University
Garrett Yarbrough writes credit card reviews, comparisons and guides for Bankrate and CreditCards.com. He has comprehensively researched the current market for more than five years, and specializes in evaluating the potential and personal value of credit cards for real people by providing the most insightful steps toward finding the best credit card — and personal financial growth at the end of the day.
He’s used his firsthand expertise and years of analysis to also write and research for major Bankrate features, including Bankrate’s Best Credit Cards hub, the latest credit card points and miles valuations, the 2022 through 2025 Bankrate Awards, the Spender Type tool, the Credit Utilization Calculator and the CardMatch™ and Approval Odds tools.
Prior to joining Bankrate, Garrett worked as a copywriter at an ad agency, and then as a freelance writer. He joined NextAdvisor.com in 2020, where his credit card, credit monitoring and identity theft analysis were regularly featured.
When he’s not reviewing credit cards or detailing the latest developments in Bankrate’s best cards, you can find Garrett traveling, reading and stopping at every niche museum he sees along the highway.
Garrett beyond Bankrate
Beyond Bankrate
Garrett wants you to know
As someone who began their personal finance journey not too long ago, I’ve seen firsthand the many credit-related misconceptions that family, friends and other credit builders hold. I noticed these stumbling blocks led several loved ones to avoid credit cards and base important life decisions on popular financial misinformation.
Using my background in analytical research and user-focused writing, I strive to make navigating credit cards and credit building smooth sailing for others who are new to credit.
Garrett’s recommended readings
How to choose the right credit card
Rethinking credit: Tips for first-generation credit users
How to maximize your credit card rewards
Under-the-radar credit card perks you should know
Merchant category codes: How to earn more cash back
How much are points and miles worth in 2023?
Sifting through reward program, sign-up bonus or card feature terms can feel overwhelming for even credit card veterans. As a Bankrate writer, I’ve seen how translating fine print into actionable advice can help cardholders evaluate their most valuable options and build a stronger financial future.
— Garrett Yarbrough
Garrett's latest articles
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Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa® Credit Card review
The Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa® Credit Card is a low-cost card that could make building credit more accessible.
19 min read Sep 04, 2025 -
Best Credit Cards for No Credit History in September 2025
Our credit card editors at Bankrate break down the best credit cards of 2025 for those with limited or no credit history. Start establishing credit and improving your financial life today.
10 min read Sep 03, 2025 -
Credit One Bank® Platinum Rewards Visa with No Annual Fee review
No annual fee and solid cash back make this one of the best Credit One cards, but it still merits trading up when you’re able.
9 min read Sep 03, 2025 -
Mission Lane Green Line Visa® Credit Card review: A bare-bones credit-building option
Though it's relatively low-cost for an unsecured credit-building card, the Mission Lane Visa is pricier than most secured cards.
10 min read Sep 03, 2025 -
Capital One Venture X Business Card review: Business travel MVP?
The Venture X Business card’s flat-rate rewards program, generous travel perks and flexible spending limit should make it a lucrative option for small-business owners looking for a taste of luxury travel.
9 min read Sep 02, 2025 -
Does applying for a credit card hurt your credit?
To process a credit card application, issuers will do a hard inquiry on your credit.
6 min read Aug 25, 2025 -
What is a credit card security code?
A credit card security code is a three- or four-digit number that’s found only on a physical credit card.
6 min read Aug 19, 2025
