Instant Approval Credit Cards - Frequently Asked Questions

Posted by Nick Niesen on October 29th, 2010

Instant approval credit cards online are becoming increasingly popular among consumers. In a fast-paced society, the speed of an instant approval credit card is sought after by many individuals. But, it is important to understand as much as you can about instant approval credit cards before you choose to apply for one.

What are Instant Approval Credit Cards?

Instant approval credit cards are those that can be approved within a matter of seconds. To qualify for one of these instant approval credit cards, online applications are completed on a secure website. Using the information gained from the application, the credit card company can determine instantly if you qualify for a credit card.

Am I Guaranteed to Get an Instant Approval Credit Card?

No. Instant approval credit cards are not secured credit cards. Therefore, they still need to look at your credit history in order to determine whether or not you qualify for a credit card. If you have a poor credit history, you may be turned down for an instant approval credit card. Whether or not you receive credit approval depends on the guidelines followed by the credit card company and your personal credit history.

Can I Still Be Approved, Even if it's Not Instant?

Yes. Instant approval credit cards sometimes need more information than what can be gained instantly in order to decide if they will approve your application. In this case, they will send you a notification letting you know that your application is being reviewed further. In this case, you will generally still know whether or not you have been approved for the credit card within a week or two, which is still much faster than non-instant approval credit cards.

Can I Start Spending Immediately?

No. Although instant approval credit cards can tell you within seconds whether or not you have been approved for an instant approval credit card online, you will have to wait to physically receive the credit card before you can start using it. Usually, your instant approval credit card will arrive to you within a couple of weeks, which is still much faster than traditional credit card application that typically take six to eight weeks.

Are There Any Differences in the Way Instant Approval Credit Cards Look?

No. Instant approval credit cards look the same as any other credit card. No one but you will know it was an instant approval credit card.

Are There Any Drawbacks to Instant Approval Credit Cards?

Maybe. Some instant approval credit cards do assess a processing fee for the convenience of receiving instant approval. If this concerns you, shop around for an instant approval credit card that does not assess these fees. There are plenty of options available. Furthermore, you might want to reconsider applying for an instant approval credit card if you do not have a need to get the card right away. If you can wait to receive the card, it better to apply for a traditional credit card in order to avoid paying unnecessary fees.

Do Instant Approval Credit Cards Have the Same Benefits as Other Credit Cards?

Yes. No two credit cards, whether they are instant approval credit cards or traditional credit cards, are the same. Therefore, they do not always include benefits such as travel insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty coverage. Nonetheless, there are plenty of instant approval credit cards available with desirable benefits such as those found on traditional credit cards.

Can I Participate in a Special Rewards Program with Instant Approval Credit Cards?

Yes. There are instant approval credit cards available that offer special cash back and rewards programs to cardholders. If you are interested in participating in one of these programs, browse through the many instant approval credit cards available in order to find one that best suits your lifestyle and needs.