How to Apply for a Gas Credit Card

Purchase gasoline on credit

High fuel costs make it costly for those that drive a lot or that have "gas-guzzling" vehicles. Gas credit cards may be the perfect fit for you if you fit in either of these categories. With gas credit cards, you can purchase gasoline on credit and often get bonuses and rewards that reduce your overall gasoline expense.

Instructions

1. Find out which are the major gas chains in your neighborhood or wherever you usually purchase gas. Some of the major gasoline chains include Exxon, Chevron, Shell and BP. You must resort to larger companies because smaller gas station chains, such as Circle K, generally do not offer gas cards. Compare the general price per gallon of the chains in your neighborhood and choose the cheapest.

2. Obtain a paper application from the gas station you have chosen. The paper applications are usually found in a stand near the cash register. If they are not, ask the gas attendant. Complete the application and mail it in or return it to one of the company's gas stations.

3. Apply online by navigating to the website of the gas station chain for which you have chosen to apply for a gas card. Locate and select the link for gas credit cards. Proceed to the application, complete it and wait for the company's decision. Depending on the company, you may get an answer in as soon as a few minutes, or as long as a few weeks, either online or via mail.

4. Read the general information as well as the fine print for the gas credit card you are interested in. Consider factors such as introductory offers, high interest rates, late charges and other fees that are often associated with credit cards.

Tips & Warnings

• Although you are purchasing gas on credit, choosing the station with the cheapest gas in your area still saves you money when it is time to pay the bill.

• You do not have to go directly through a gas chain to get a gas card. If you choose not to, use a third party's website to compare and apply for a non-station specific credit card that offers gas rebates or bonuses. Several banks and American Express offer such cards.

• Gas station-specific credit cards are best for those who use a particular gas company.

References

• Ask Mr. Credit Card

Resources

• FINDgascards