Shortly after graduating college in 2016, I got a Capital One Silver card. I hit a rough patch in life spring of 2019, leading to me maxing it out and not being able make payments towards the $500 balance for 4 months straight. I paid it off summer of 2019, but was told my account was restricted (no purchases are allowed) and I could no longer use the card.

Fast forward to today. I want a credit card to start rebuilding my credit. Rather than open a new account, I wanted to use my account I have had for over 5 years. I was told I cannot get the restrictions lifted, and would have to apply for a new account. I was also told that they wouldn't forgive the late payments, but rather, I would have to send a letter to dispute the missed payment remarks on my credit report and maybe they would approve it.

I've carried a zero balance for 25 consecutive months. What can I do? I don't want to close the account cause it's one of my older lines of credit. I just want to use the account I already have. I don't understand how they can tell credit bureaus that I have $500 of credit, but not let me use it.

On one hand, I'm getting hurt by having unused credit (that Capital One will not let me use), but on the other hand, I'll be tanked if I cancel it. I'm frustrated. Thanks for any advice.