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Where Do I Go to Apply for Different Credit Cards? |
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Credit card offers are everywhere these days. Retailers from Home Depot to CostCo offer credit cards as ways to incentivize spending. Banks and other financial institutions from Wachovia to Wells Fargo issue credit cards as well as dedicated credit card companies like Discover. You can apply for cards at any bank branch or get that Discover card application online. You can even get card applications through the mail or request one on any credit card website.
If our mention of Home Depot has you salivating over your next home improvement project, you can apply for store credit cards either in the customer service department or right at the register. Some stores give a discount on your purchases the first time you use your credit card or when you apply for credit, so you can get started on that new bathroom tile or kitchen shelf right away.
Applying over the Internet is one of the fastest, easiest, and most popular ways to apply for a credit card. But always use caution when giving information over the Internet. Check out the website’s credentials and read its privacy statement before submitting any personal or financial information. The website should have encryption and security features in place to keep the information that you enter safe and confidential.
There are many websites where you can check the interest rates, APR, credit limits, penalties, balance transfer offers, and other features offered by multiple credit card issuers. But if you are looking for more detailed information or have a specific card in mind, go directly to the financial institution’s website. For example, for that Discover card application, just head to www.discovercard.com.
If you don’t feel comfortable sending that Discover card application over the Internet, you can apply by phone or submit an application through the mail. Most credit card issuers have a toll free number that you can call to apply right over the phone. You can find this number on the company website or through the yellow pages or other directories. Have your banking, credit, income, and identifying information such as a driver’s license or social security number available when you call.
To submit an application through the mail, call for your Discover card application directly or download and print an application from DiscoverCard.com. This doesn’t work as well for that Home Depot or CostCo card. You generally want to apply for those cards in person to take advantage of any discounts or gifts the stores may offer.
Credit card companies also send applications in the mail frequently. If you receive an application, make sure the address is legitimate and that the application is an official, original document. Shred any applications that you choose not to use to prevent identity theft.
Now that you are ready to apply, just remember to limit yourself to a credit limit that you can afford, and be careful not to apply to too many credit offers, as they may have a negative impact on your credit score.
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