The application process
You want a credit card. You have checked the websites and made credit card comparisons. You have made your choice. So how do you go about getting a credit card?
Before you complete the credit card application form take the time to read the Terms and Conditions of Use of the credit card you have selected. These will give you important information about the use of your credit card.
To obtain a credit card you will need to fill out a credit card application form. These credit card application forms are quite simple to complete. They comprise personal details such as name, address, telephone number, employment status such as employed or self employed and financial information such as total monthly income and amount of monthly mortgage payment or rent. Always answer the questions truthfully as failure to do so could render the application void.
Once you have completed the application form, whether online or in paper form, submit it to your credit card issuer. The credit card issuer will carry out a credit check on you. Depending on the outcome of the credit check the credit card issuer will decide what your credit limit will be. You will then receive your credit card together with your PIN (you can always change your PIN). Sign your credit card and make sure you memorise your four-digit PIN or if you decide to write it down never keep it in such a way that if your credit card is stolen the thief will have access to your PIN.
Finally, remember not to spend beyond your credit limit without prior authorisation from your credit card issuer and to always make at least the minimum payment shown on your credit card statement each month. Failure to do either or both could land you with financial penalties (see your Terms and Conditions of Use).
Return to our credit card information section, or return to the homepage.