What Do You Need to Apply for a Credit Card?
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If you’re thinking about applying for a credit card , you might be wondering what you need to do to get started. Here’s a quick overview of the process and what you’ll need to have on hand.
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Basic Requirements
Most people can get a credit card if they meet certain requirements. Here are the basic requirements:
Be at least 18 years old
In order to get a credit card, you’ll need to meet some basic requirements. First, you must be at least 18 years old. This is the legal age of majority in the United States, meaning you’re considered an adult and can enter into contracts, including credit card agreements. If you’re not yet 18, you’ll need a co-signer on your credit card account who is over 18 and legally responsible for your account.
Have a Social Security number
In order to apply for a credit card, you will need to have a Social Security number. This is because the credit card companies need to be able to identify you and run a credit check. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will not be able to apply for a credit card.
Have a U.S. mailing address
In order to apply for a credit card, you must have a U.S. mailing address. This is because credit card companies will use this address to send you your monthly statements and any other correspondence. If you do not have a U.S. mailing address, you may still be able to apply for a credit card by providing an alternate mailing address, such as a friend or family member’s address.
Additional Requirements
Most credit card companies will require you to have a good to excellent credit score before they will approve you for a credit card. Some credit card companies may also require you to have a certain income level or a certain amount of money in the bank.
Have a job or other source of income
A good or excellent credit score: Most credit cards require a score of 670 or higher.
A source of income: You’ll need to show that you have the means to repay any debt you take on. That generally means having a job or other regular source of income.
Proof of identity: You’ll need to provide your Social Security number and, in some cases, other forms of identification such as a driver’s license number.
Have a good to excellent credit score
If you want to be approved for a credit card, you’ll need to have a good to excellent credit score. That means a score of 650 or higher on the FICO® Score☉ 8 scale. A good credit score opens the door to more card options, lower interest rates and better rewards.
Other requirements are more specific to each card issuer, but here are some general things you may need:
-Proof of income: Issuers want to see that you have the financial means to pay off your balance. They may ask for your most recent W-2 form or tax return.
-Government-issued ID: You’ll need to show a driver’s license, passport or other form of government-issued ID.
-Address and phone number: You’ll need to provide your current mailing address and phone number.
