Getting approval for the first credit card is exciting! You have taken a big step towards building a good reputation. You may have heard of credit card rewards and hope to start getting these rewards.
1. Learn about credit scores
Credit scores - you have a lot - are one of the most important factors that a credit card issuer decides to approve your application. Most reward credit cards require excellent credit or at least good credit. So if you keep trying to maintain a good credit history, you may want to postpone your application until your credit improves. Or, consider using a security card or a card designed for someone with bad credit, not a reward card.
2. Get your credit score
3. Improve your credit
if you:
4. Don't apply for the first job you see
If your credit is not good, you may not be approved to use a card with a high registration bonus and a generous reward. Each credit card application can temporarily cancel your credit report, so consider using an online tool for prequalification. You can also call the card issuer to ask for specific card requirements.
5. Include all income in the application
The issuer believes that your credit score is a reputation indicator, but the score does not reflect your income. The card issuer uses the income to calculate your debt-to-income ratio, which helps determine your ability to pay. Change your ratio by increasing your income or reducing your debt.