How to Apply for a Credit Card

---

Applying for a credit card—and waiting to hear whether you’re approved—can be stressful. Following the tips in this post will make the process easy.

What information do you need to get a credit card?

When you apply for a credit card, you’ll need to share your personal information. This will give the credit card issuer a clear sense of your financial status.

Credit card applications usually ask for your:

• Full legal name
• Social security number (SSN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN)
• Physical street address
• Gross annual income
• Employment status

Some credit card issuers will also ask about your housing costs—and whether you rent or own your home. Others may request your phone number as well.

Remember that in addition to the above information, credit card issuers need to know your credit score. Plan to confirm your credit score before you apply so that you know what kinds of cards you’re eligible for.

How long does it take to apply for a credit card?

Getting approved for a credit card can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few weeks.

Card issuers may take longer to process your application if:

• Your personal information needs to be verified.
• You made a mistake in your application.
• Your credit reports are frozen

You may need to unfreeze your credit in order to be approved for a credit card. Once your application has been approved, you will typically receive your new card in the mail within 10 days.

What happens if your credit card application is denied?

Don’t take it personally if the credit card issuer rejects your application. Simply look into applying for a different credit card. For example, a card with a lower minimum credit score may be a better fit.

You may also apply for what’s called a secured credit card. This type of credit card lets you use cash as collateral for your account.

Whatever you do, only apply for one credit card at a time. This is because every application you submit will involve a hard inquiry into your credit. Too many of these hard pulls in a short period of time can negatively impact your credit score.

Learn more about applying for a credit card

Please contact us with questions or for more information on applying for a credit card.