Applying for your first Credit Card

By: The Zen Pen | Posted on: 13 August 2015

Credit Score Secrets

REVEALED: The "SHOCKING TRUTH!"

What are banks and credit score agencies doing to stop YOU getting credit?

If you're fed up with being declined when applying for loans, credit cards or mortgages, this report will reveal the shocking truths and secrets about Credit Scoring.

Published by Maria Forte, an expert who worked for 20 years in the Financial Industry in London, the report can help you to skyrocket your credit score.

Bust the myths and get the FACTS now:

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Getting your first credit card is a rite of passage almost as important as buying your first car. While the car may become little more than a memory, your first credit card, and the credit history you establish with it, can stay with you for life.

In addition to the benefits of revolving credit, credit cards bridge global currencies, open up access to e-commerce, are easier to carry than cash, and transactions are safer due to enhanced security technology and purchase protection. Many cards also offer free flights and checked bags on airlines; discounts on hotel rooms and shopping; and even cash back.

Your credit score takes a hit each time you apply for a new card, so you want to ensure you stand a good chance of being accepted before you apply. Diligently research available cards, their perks, and requirements to be sure you choose a card that not only matches your needs but your credit score and debt-to-income ratio as well. Many credit card companies will decline your application if your credit score is too low or your debt-to-income numbers are too high. This information also determines the card's rates, charges and perks.

If you need help researching and choosing a card, sites such as creditcards.com, Nerdwallet.com, and creditkarma.com offer credit card selection tools to filter cards by your credit score, income, and desired card benefits. Once you choose a card to apply for, go to the card's website to request a form by mail or fill one out online.

To speed the application process, gather numbers, documents and other required information before you start. You will need Social Security numbers for all applicants and co-applicants, accurate income information, mortgage/rental and auto payments, and physical addresses for the past three to five years.

If you have a lower credit score or have no credit history, you may need to start with a secured credit card. A secured card requires a security deposit which determines how much you can charge. Once you prove creditworthiness by using the card and paying off charges in a timely manner, your deposit is refunded. If applying for a secured card, you will need your bank information or checkbook handy.

Taking the time to gather necessary documents and information, researching card requirements and options, and selecting a card for which you are likely to be approved greatly increases your chances of a positive application experience.

Top Tips for Getting Approved for a Credit Card

  • Check your credit report annually to see whether there are any problems
  • Get on the electoral register
  • Don't fall for the 'pre-approval' marketing tactic
  • Get rid of any debt that you may already have
  • Compare credit card rates before applying
  • Be truthful on your application form. Include all income.
  • Ensure employment stability
  • Keep credit applications to a minimum

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The shocking truth about credit agencies

The shocking truth about credit agencies

Unable to obtain credit? This report exposes how the credit agencies work to improve your credit score.