Can bad credit and no credit balance out for approval?

The only way to offset bad credit is to establish new credit with a satisfactory payment history.I know this sounds like a Catch 22 since your bad credit is what prevents you from being approved for new credit. No credit ratings at all is almost, but not quite, as bad as derogatory credit. If I were you I would try applying for a store care like Penney’s or Sears …. both of you. Those kind of cards are typically easier to qualify for than visas and mastercards. Just keep in mind, store cards also have a higher interest rate and only charge what you can afford to pay off monthly. If either of you can qualify for a store care, do use it once a month for several months and once you’ve established a good payment record you’ll be much more likely to qualify for other types of credit. Best of luck.