How to Get a United States Credit Card

Apply for your own credit card online.

Applying for a credit card is a simple process that can be completed online and in a short time frame. When applying for a credit card online, it's always a good idea to check all of your options before applying. Some credit cards have no annual fee and a high annual percentage rate (APR), while other cards have a hefty annual fee but lower rates for purchases. Some credit cards come with frequent flier miles and points for purchases made throughout the year.

Instructions

1. Visit a credit card comparison site, such as creditcards.com or comparecreditcards.com.

2. Decide which credit card is best suited for your needs. If you want a credit card for emergency purchases only, you may want to choose a credit card without annual fees. If you travel frequently, choose a card with frequent flier miles and travel insurance included.

3. Visit the website of the credit card you want to apply for or visit the main site of one of the major credit cards: visa.com, mastercard.com, americanexpress.com or discover.com.

4. Fill out the application form on the website. You will need to input your contact details, social security details, your annual income and employers details and your home address history over a period of a few years. Once you submit your application, the application program will check your credit rating against their criteria, and most credit card companies will give you a response in 30 seconds. Once your application has been accepted you will receive your credit card in approximately 10 days.

Tips & Warnings

• If you were rejected for a credit card because of bad or no credit, try reapplying when your credit is better.

References

• Credit Cards
• Compare Credit Cards
• Visa
• Mastercard