Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get a Credit Card
You may have heard that you can save a lot of money on various activities by using a credit card. The question that goes unanswered is how to get a credit card. What are the requirements to fulfill? Can anyone get this card and enjoy savings?
Unfortunately, not everyone can get a card. There are a few terms you have to meet to qualify for a card, and today, credit card companies have something for everyone. Here is all you need to know.
How to Get Credit Card: Important Steps and Guidelines
Before we get into the process, keep in mind that using a credit card means being responsible. Not paying its bills on time has consequences, so only apply for it when you are ready to spend smartly.
Step 1: Know Why You Want It
Before you start the application process of a credit card, take a moment to think. You may need a card to transact easily during your work and leisure travel or to save money as an online shopper. In case you are a student, you may need it during emergencies. As a young professional, you may need it to build your credit history.
Identifying these specifics early on can really aid in reducing the number of choices you have and make it easier to find something that meets your requirements perfectly.
Step 2: Check Your Creditworthiness
Be it CIBIL, Experian or Equifax, your score is important to the credit card approval process. It is also worth noting that a higher score means you can get a card with:
- More benefits
- A higher credit limit
- Lower fees
As a result, before attempting to apply, check your score and request a free report from one of the major credit bureaus.
Step 3: See the Qualifying Criteria
Every card company sets eligibility terms regarding age, earnings and other factors. These terms help them weed out applicants who pose too much of a risk. To get a card, you need to meet all these terms. Do not waste your time applying for a card if you do not qualify for it!
Step 4: Weigh Your Options
With 100+ credit cards in the market today, it is imperative that you compare their:
- Features
- Annual and joining fees
- Interest rates and other charges
Check each of these against your requirements in the first step. There will surely be one out there that meets them all!
Step 5: Gather Documents
To successfully apply for a credit card, you will need to upload or hand over certain documents. Typically, these include:
- Identity evidence: Aadhaar card, passport, or driver’s licence
- Proof of address: Passport, utility bill or rental agreement
- Income proof: Bank statements, salary slips, income tax returns
Keep these ready before applying to speed up the process.
Step 6: Click Apply
The next step is filling out the application form. Doing it online is the easiest way, though you can also visit local bank branches directly and submit an in-person application. The next step is to upload or hand over the documents you have kept ready.
Step 7: Wait for Approval
After you submit the credit card application, banks typically review, verify documents, and assess creditworthiness within days or weeks, depending on their policies and procedures. During this time, you can track your application’s status online or contact customer service for updates.
Step 8: Activate Your Credit Card
Once your application for credit has been approved and the card arrives by mail, activating it is the next step. The method may differ: you can activate a card using the mobile app or calling customer service helpline numbers. Follow the provided instructions to securely activate your card before beginning to use it.
Bonus Step: Consider Applying for a Metal Credit Card in India
Are you looking for an upgraded credit card experience? Consider applying for one made of metal. Such a card provides a luxurious feel while being more durable than standard plastic cards. In India, numerous banks and financial institutions offer metal credit cards, often featuring high spending limits, concierge services, and exclusive rewards programs as additional perks.
Getting a credit card doesn’t need to be an intimidating or time-consuming experience. Now that you know how to get credit card without a struggle, apply for one today. Want the best metal credit card in India? Your search ends with the One Credit Card.
This stylish credit card is backed by a powerful, full-stack mobile application that makes using it easier and more convenient. Use the app to find the best deals from retailers close to you, set spending limits and get spending reports. You can also enjoy 5X points on the top two spending categories of every month. What are you waiting for? Apply online in just five minutes.