How to Open a Department Store Credit Card

Most major department stores offer credit cards branded with the store's logo. You can only use some of these cards to make purchases at that store, whereas others work in conjunction with a major credit card issuer for use anywhere. The biggest perk of department store cards is that many have reward programs that provide you with discounts and gift certificates to use on your purchases. If you shop at the store frequently, having their credit card can pay off.

Instructions

In Store

1. Go to the customer service desk or checkout counter at the department store at which you would like to open the credit card.

2. Ask the employee for a store credit card application.

3. Fill out the application, either on paper or verbally to the employee who enters the information directly into a computer. If you complete the application verbally, ensure nobody overhears your Social Security number and personal information, which could lead to identity theft. You will likely need to show a photo identification.

4. Wait to find out the approval status of your application. In most cases, the store processes the application while you wait.

5. Use the new card for your first purchase at the store. Many stores give you a discount the first time you use the card, so you reap the most reward if you use it on a large shopping trip instead of a small one.

Online

1. Navigate to the department store's website.

2. Find the link for the store credit card application. It is usually either along the top of the page or down at the very bottom. If you cannot find it and the store has a search feature, use that.

3. Fill out the application. Before you submit, check that the web address begins with "https" -- this means that the information will send over a secure connection.

4. Wait for verification of approval. In almost all cases, the department store will immediately approve your application if you meet the requirements. If more information is necessary or you are ineligible to receive a credit card, you will receive notification that the store cannot offer you a card at this time. The store will either email you or mail you the reason why it could not approve you in accordance with federal law.

5. Watch for your credit card to arrive in the mail. Take it to the department store to use it or enter the credit card number to make online purchases through the store's website.

Tips & Warnings

• Department store credit cards usually have much higher interest rates than credit cards from major issuers. Therefore, carrying a balance can be very expensive. You should pay off your credit card bill in full every month.

• If the department store denies your application, you may send a letter of reconsideration. If you have a low credit score and a negative credit history, it is unlikely the store will approve you.

• Every department store has it's own means of qualifying applicants. The primary factor in approval is your credit score.

• Opening a new credit card slightly lowers your credit score. Try to avoid opening more than one new card at a time, or opening any new cards right before applying for a major loan.

References

• Bankrate.com; Bad Credit Doesn't Mean No Credit; April 2005