Credit card applications, at face value, are easy enough. You fill in your personal details online, hit submit and wait for the company to get back to you regarding your approval. But while applications are simple, getting approval for your credit card can be more difficult.
Credit card eligibility is measured on several different factors. Having a basic understanding of these factors can help you take pre-emptive measures to maximize your chance of approval. Here are four ways to boost your chances of securing the credit card you want.
Keep Your Credit Score High
The single greatest factor that influences a lender’s decision to approve you for a credit card or not is your credit score. Your credit score gives the card company an indication of how likely you will make credit card payments on time.
Make sure you have a history of paying bills on time and keep up to date with your credit score using credit score checkers. Using your credit score, you can ensure you are only applying for credit cards that you may qualify for and reduce the time spent on applications with little chance of approval.
Don’t Apply for Lots of Cards in One Go.
Even applicants with the necessary credit score can still be denied credit cards if the card issuer can see that they have made lots of applications for different credit cards recently. This sends a red flag to card issuers, prompting them to deduce that the applicant may be experiencing financial hardship and unable to keep up with repayments.
Space out your credit card applications to avoid lenders assuming you are in financial trouble. In doing so, you will be more likely to be approved.
Pay Down Existing Credit Debt
Even if you pay off your credit cards in full every month, if you have a high balance on your card, this could impact your approval on a new credit card. This is because card issuers report balances to credit bureaus, even if the borrower pays off the amount in full every month without incurring penalty charges.
If you have a large outstanding balance on a credit card, pay it off early, before the statement period closes, to have it cleared before you apply for a new credit card.
Use the Reconsideration Service
If you have completed all the other measures on this list (you have the right credit score for the card, you haven’t applied for too many cards, and you have paid down existing credit) and have still been rejected, you can use the card issuers reconsideration service.
Credit card companies usually offer a reconsideration service that allows you to explain any negative marks on your credit score and get them to reconsider your credit card application. When you get someone on the line, clearly outline why you want this credit card and have your credit score to hand to answer any questions about your credit history. You may be able to assuage their fears over your reliability as a borrower.
