10 Ways To Ensure You Get Approval For A Credit Card

Q: 2. How to choose the best credit card issuer?

When you're looking for an issuer, compare the cards they offer and see if one fits your needs. Look for low-interest rates, minimal fees, and generous rewards programs. Additionally, consider their customer service reputation and the ease of managing your account online. Opt for issuers known for supporting their clients' financial growth, such as those offering free monthly scores, tools for tracking spending, or upgrades once you improve your score.

Here at MoneyFor, our goal is to help you make informed financial decisions. We are committed to accuracy and impartiality in all our content. It’s important to note that articles may reference products from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we feature and their presentation on our site, not our evaluation.

Key takeaways

Successfully applying for a credit card starts with looking up your score. Knowing your score helps narrow down your options so you only apply for cards you qualify for.
Understand what you want to get from your card. Then try to prequalify for cards that fit your needs, spending habits, and come with affordable fees.
Improving your credit score is the best way to qualify for more cards. Use features like autopay to ensure you never miss a bill and up your approval odds.

Getting your credit card application approved is easier than you think. The key is to do a little prep work and apply for the right card. How do you do that?

First, you need to know what you want. Maybe you’re looking for a rewards card or perhaps you need to improve your credit score. Either way, you need to know what creditors are looking for and what you qualify for. Then you can strategically apply and increase your chances of being approved for the card you want.

Let’s go over how to get approved for a credit card so you can learn how to beat the odds.

Gather the necessary information and learn about credit scores
Access your credit scores
Know what’s in your credit reports
Apply for cards that fit your credit score
What to consider when choosing a credit card
Credit cards with instant numbers
Instant approval credit cards
Credit history
Choose a method to apply and follow each step
Bottom line

Gather the necessary information and learn about credit scores

First things first, gather the information you’ll need for your application. This will make the whole process go smoother. Most credit card issuers want to know your:

Full legal name
Date of birth
Current address
Social Security number
Annual income

They may also ask how long you’ve been at your current address or job. If you rent or own and have how you pay for housing each month.

The issuer needs to assess your basic financial situation. It helps them understand how much you can afford to borrow.

Know your credit score and what it means

When you are looking to get approved for a credit card you need to learn about your score. Your credit score is a three-digit number that lenders use to assess your creditworthiness or in other words how likely you are to repay the loan.

Your score is based on financial data lenders and banks send to the three main credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. The bureaus run this data through scoring models to produce your score. Credit scores range from 300-850 with higher being better. Higher scores indicate lower risk and so get the best rates and lowest fees. Your score doesn’t have to be 850 though. Get it to 670 and it’s considered good.

Access your credit scores

Start by finding out your credit score. Luckily it’s very easy to do. Many banks and issuers offer free monthly scores to their customers and there are numerous online platforms and financial management apps that provide similar services at no cost.

Knowing your score ensures you only apply for cards in your score range. If your score is poor, focus on cards designed for low scores to help improve them.

Plenty of financial institutions – banks and card issuers – let you see your score for FREE each month!

Know what’s in your credit reports

Your credit report is separate from your credit score. Your report provides a detailed history of your borrowing and repayment behavior, including accounts opened, payment history, inquiries, and any delinquencies or collections. Reports are maintained by Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion and the information in them may vary a bit by bureau. The bureaus use the data in the reports to calculate your score.

You can request a free copy of your credit reports every 12 months from each of the bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. Look for any errors or outdated information that could negatively impact your score. If you find mistakes, dispute them immediately with the bureaus as they could be dragging down your score.

Apply for cards that fit your credit score

One of the best things you can do to get approved for a credit card is to apply for cards that align with your current score. Lenders offer a variety of cards for all types of scores. No matter if you have excellent credit or need to build your score, you’ll be able to find a card. Apply for cards that match up with your score for best approval odds.

At MoneyFor, we list score requirements for each of our cards. Take a look at our offers and see if there’s one that you qualify for.

What to consider when choosing a credit card

There’s a lot to think about when selecting the right credit card. Cards come with different interest rates, fees, rewards, and benefits. You’ll have to consider how you’re going to use the card and what your financial goals are.

Annual Fee: Firstly, assess the annual fee and determine if the card’s benefits justify the cost. A lot of rewards cards come with high annual fees, as do cards designed for low scores. The fees help the issuer pay for the rewards or offer insurance on low score cards that have a higher risk of default. You have to decide if you can afford the fee and if the benefits are worth the cost.

APR: Interest rates are another critical aspect. If you plan on carrying a balance, look for a card with the lowest possible APR to minimize interest charges. However, if you pay off your balance in full each month, you might prioritize cards with better rewards over lower interest rates.

Rewards: Rewards programs should align with your spending habits. Whether it’s cash back, points, or travel miles, choose a program where you can maximize the benefits based on your regular expenditures. A lot of cards let you earn rewards on groceries, gas, and other common expenses.

Benefits: Lastly, consider any additional benefits like sign-up bonuses, free monthly score, or no foreign transaction fees if you travel abroad. These perks can add significant value.

Learn about credit card terms

Credit cards come with lots of terms. Understand what they mean so you will know the cost of the card and how to avoid unnecessary fees and interest charges. Here are some key terms you should be familiar with:

Annual Percentage Rate (APR): The interest rate you’ll pay on any balances carried from month to month.
Penalty APR: A higher APR that is applied if you miss a payment or fail to pay your statement on time.
Annual fees: The fee you pay each year for the convenience of using the card.
Credit limit: The maximum amount you can charge on your card. It’s best to only use 30% of your limit to maintain a healthy credit utilization ratio and improve your score.
Late payment fees: The fee charged if you miss a payment or pay your bill late.
Monthly maintenance fees: The monthly charge found on cards for low scores is used to help maintain the card. These are usually waived for the first year.
Cash advance: When you use your card to withdraw cash. Cash advances are subject to a higher APR, ATM transaction fees, additional fees, and there is no grace period, so you accrue interest right away.
Rewards programs: Many cards offer rewards for certain purchases. Understand how to earn and redeem rewards to maximize the benefits.

Familiarizing yourself with these terms and how they apply to your card usage can help you make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and ultimately improve your financial health.

Compare cards against your financial needs

Once you know what cards you might qualify for and understand their costs, think about why you need a card. Are you a frequent traveler looking for miles, or could you benefit more from cash back on everyday purchases? Is improving your score your highest priority?

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Decide on what you want, then look for a card that fits your specific needs, budget, and spending habits. If you’re going to pay an annual fee, make sure you can afford the fee and that the benefits outweigh the cost.

Factor in the interest rates, especially if you plan to carry a balance. A lower APR can save you significantly in the long run. Lastly, don’t overlook additional perks such as free monthly scores and zero liability on unauthorized purchases, which can add substantial value.

Looking for a card with a high limit?

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Don’t apply for too many cards at once

A common mistake is applying for multiple credit cards within a short period. This approach can backfire, as each application triggers a hard inquiry into your report. Hard inquiries slightly lower your score, and having several of them in quick succession can create the impression that you’re in desperate need of credit, which is a red flag for lenders.

Instead, take your time and find a card you like that you qualify for. Don’t waste time applying for cards you’re unlikely to get.

Try to prequalify to gauge your approval odds before officially applying. You can then compare card offers and find the one with the best terms and lowest fees. Then apply strategically to minimize the impact on your score and increase your approval odds.

If you are denied, wait at least six months before applying again. This way, you don’t look desperate to creditors, and it gives your score a chance to recover.

Credit cards with instant numbers

Lots of issuers give you instant access to your credit card number once you’ve been approved. You’ll receive your number either online or by email and can start making purchases right away. This feature allows you to pay bills or shop online even before your physical card arrives in the mail. It’s particularly useful for anyone who needs to make urgent transactions or wants to start taking advantage of rewards and benefits without delay.

The same financial responsibilities apply. Manage your spending wisely, keep your utilization below 30%, pay off balances on time to avoid interest charges, and maintain a healthy score.

Instant approval credit cards

How long does it take to get approved for a credit card? Sometimes it can happen instantly.

Instant approval credit cards give you an immediate decision on the status of your application. You find out if you’re approved, denied, or if they need more information within minutes of applying. This can be very helpful if you need a card right away. It’s important to note that “instant approval” doesn’t guarantee acceptance; it means that the decision-making process is quick.

If the issuer wants more information, it can take several days to find out if you’re approved. Whether you’re approved or denied still depends on the same factors – your score, income, rent or mortgage payments, etc. The issuer simply runs a preliminary check. If you appear eligible, they grant you conditional approval while performing a more in-depth review of your financial history.

Instant approval cards are tempting, but don’t get carried away. Always review the terms and conditions before you apply to make sure you can afford the card.

Credit history

Your credit history is what is on your credit report. It is a record of your borrowing and repayment activities and includes details of credit accounts (such as loans and cards), payment histories, utilization, account balances, and the age of each account. Lenders scrutinize this history to assess your risk as a borrower and determine your creditworthiness.

A well-established history, characterized by a track record of on-time payments, low balances, and a mix of accounts, can significantly enhance your ability to get approved for a card. It demonstrates to lenders that you are a responsible borrower who will repay as agreed. Conversely, a short or nonexistent history, or one that includes late payments, high balances, or accounts in collection, can hinder your chances of approval.

Building a positive credit history requires time and diligence. It involves not only making timely payments but also maintaining low balances on your cards and managing your accounts wisely. For those just starting out or looking to rebuild, getting a secured credit card or becoming an authorized user on someone else’s account can be effective strategies. They can help you establish your credit history, improve your score, and make it easier to get cards with good APRs and low fees.

Find the card for you!

Credit Cards with $500 Limit – Guaranteed Approval.

Pay your bills on time

Paying your bills on time is the best thing you can do to improve your score and up your approval odds. Payment history is the most important factor in calculating your score. Never miss a payment and your score will thank you.

If you can, pay your bills in full every month. This way you will never have to pay interest and you’ll save money. Sometimes people need to carry a balance. If you’re in this situation, make sure you make the minimum payments on time and you’re score will be fine.

Avoid late payments with autopay

Even one late payment can cause your score to drop by more than 100 points. How much it affects your score depends on how late your payment is. Payments that are only a few days or weeks late are usually forgiven. Most issuers won’t report a bill as late until it’s thirty days past due. After that, it will show up on your report and lower your score. Additionally, you’ll be charged a late payment fee and potentially a penalty APR.

One of the most effective strategies to ensure your bills are paid on time is to utilize autopay. By setting up automatic payments, you authorize your bank or issuer to automatically deduct the payment amount from your account on a specified date each month.

Autopay can be set up to cover the minimum payment due or the full statement balance, your choice. It’s a straightforward way to ensure you never miss a due date.

Choose a method to apply and follow each step

When applying for a new credit card, you have several options: online, over the phone, through the mail, or in person. Each method has its own set of steps and timelines for approval.

Applying online is the easiest and fastest way. You enter your information on the issuer’s site and wait for a decision. When you apply for a credit card online, it typically only takes minutes to be approved. Some applicants require further review, which may take a few days. When you’re approved, you may also get instant access to your card number.

Over the phone applications provide a personal touch, allowing you to ask questions and clarify terms directly with a representative. This method can still offer quick decisions but might take longer than online applications due to potential wait times.

Applying through the mail is the slowest method, as it relies on postal service timelines for both sending your application and receiving your decision. This process can take several weeks.

In-person applications at a bank branch can be as quick as online applications if the bank offers instant decisions. Additionally, bank representatives can assist you with the application process and answer any questions immediately.

Regardless of the method you choose, ensure you follow each step carefully and provide all required information accurately to avoid delays.

Frequently asked questions

1. What to do if you don’t have a credit score.

For those wondering how to get approved for a credit card with no credit, consider starting with secured cards or becoming an authorized user on someone else’s card. Secured cards require a deposit that acts as your limit and so they are low-risk for lenders. Many do not even require a score. Being an authorized user allows you to benefit from the primary cardholder’s responsible behavior and good score, helping you improve your score without owning a card outright. Either way, you can work on your score, get it into the good range, and apply for better cards.

2. How to choose the best credit card issuer?

When you’re looking for an issuer, compare the cards they offer and see if one fits your needs. Look for low-interest rates, minimal fees, and generous rewards programs. Additionally, consider their customer service reputation and the ease of managing your account online. Opt for issuers known for supporting their clients’ financial growth, such as those offering free monthly scores, tools for tracking spending, or upgrades once you improve your score.

Bottom line

Understanding how to get approved for a credit card involves more than just filling out an application; it requires knowing how to strategically apply so you can get the best card for you. Look at your credit score, review your report, and then research cards to find the ones you qualify for.

Try to prequalify before you apply. While being prequalified does not guarantee approval, it lets you see your chances and compare offers without hurting your score.

Getting a new credit card can be exciting. Follow these tips and soon, you’ll find the right card to fit your needs and lifestyle.

1. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.

2. Paycheck Advance is an earned wage access service and is not a loan or credit product.

3. Current is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. FDIC insurance up to $250,000 only covers the failure of an FDIC-insured bank. Certain conditions must be satisfied for pass-through deposit insurance coverage to apply. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and/or Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card, which may be issued by Choice Financial Group and/or Cross River Bank, and the Current Visa® secured charge card, which is issued by Cross River Bank, are all issued pursuant to licenses from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit or credit cards are accepted. A Current debit account is required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.

4. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.

5. Debit card: Fees may apply, including out of network cash withdrawal fees, third-party fees, cash load fees, inactivity fees, account closure fees, international transaction fees, replacement card fees, express mail fees and escheatment fees. Build Card: Some fees may apply, including out of network ATM fees of $2.50 per transaction, late payment fees of 3% of any total due balance outstanding and past due for two or more billing cycles, foreign transaction fees of 3% of the full transaction amount (minimum $0.50), card replacement fees per card of $5 for regular delivery and $30 for expedited delivery, cash deposit fees of $3.50 per deposit, and third party processing fees.

6. The Current Visa® Debit Card is issued by Choice Financial Group pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. The Current Visa® secured charge card is issued by Cross River Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.

7. Individual results may vary. Using your credit card responsibly may allow you to improve your credit score. Credit building depends on various factors, including your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and other financial activities.

8. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.

9. Funds held in Savings Pods are FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at our partner bank Choice Financial Group, member FDIC.

10. Actual overdraft amount may vary and is subject to change at any time, at Current’s sole discretion. In order to qualify and enroll in the Fee-Free Overdraft feature, you must receive $500 or more in Eligible Direct Deposits into your Current Account over the preceding 35-day period and fulfill other requirements subject to Current’s discretion. Negative balances must be repaid within 60 days of the first Eligible Transaction that caused the negative balance. For more information, please refer to Fee-free Overdraft Terms and Conditions. Individual Current Accounts only.

11. For eligible customers only. You may earn Points in connection with your Build Card purchases at retailers whose merchant code is classified as: Dining (e.g., restaurants) and Groceries (e.g., supermarkets) and by completing other actions that Current designates as subject to the Current Points Program. The amount of Points granted for different actions as well as the purchase requirements necessary to earn Points will vary, and is subject to Current’s sole discretion. After qualifying, please allow 3-5 business days for points to post to your Current account. Points will expire 365 days after they settle. For more information (including specific eligibility criteria), please refer to the Current Points Terms and Condition.

12. Some fees may apply, including out of network ATM fees of $2.50 per transaction, late payment fees of 3% of any total due balance outstanding and past due for two or more billing cycles, foreign transaction fees of 3% of the full transaction amount (minimum $0.50), card replacement fees per card of $5 for regular delivery and $30 for expedited delivery, cash deposit fees of $3.50 per deposit, and third party processing fees.

13. Boost Bonuses are credited to your Savings Pods within 48 hours of enabling the Boost feature and on a daily basis thereafter, provided that the Savings Pod has accrued a Boost Bonus of at least $0.01. No minimum balance required. The Boost rate on Savings Pods is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed rate is effective as of August 1, 2023. Must have $0.01 in Savings Pods to earn a Boost rate of either 0.25% or 4.00% annually on the portion of balances up to $2000 per Savings Pod, up to $6000 total. The remaining balance earns 0.00%. To earn a Boost rate of 4.00%, the sum of your Eligible Payroll Deposits over a rolling 35-day period must be $500 or more, with at least one Eligible Payroll Deposit equalling a minimum of $200. For more information, please refer to Current Boost Terms and Conditions.

14. Your money is FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at each of our partner banks, Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank, members FDIC.

15. Average value based on Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings in 2023 for stays of two nights. Benefits include daily breakfast for two, room upgrade upon arrival when available, $100 amenity, guaranteed 4PM late checkout, and noon check-in when available. Certain room categories not eligible for upgrade. $100 amenity varies by property. Actual value will vary based on property, room rate, upgrade availability, and use of benefits.

16. Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

17. The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

18. Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one- way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

19. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

20. Coverage for a Stolen or damaged Eligible Cellular Wireless Telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per Eligible Card Account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per Eligible Card Account per 12 month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

21. When an American Express® Card Member charges a Covered Purchase to an Eligible Card, Extended Warranty§ can provide up to one extra year added to the Original Manufacturer’s Warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your Card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

22. Purchase Protection is an embedded benefit of your Card Membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect Covered Purchases made on your Eligible Card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the Covered Purchase date. The coverage is limited to up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Coverage Limits Apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

23. Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC.

24. The secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card is issued by Stride Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted.

25. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted.

26. The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of September 20, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.

27. There’s no fee for the Chime Savings Account. Cash withdrawal and Third-party fees may apply to Chime Checking Accounts. You must have a Chime Checking Account to open a Chime Savings Account.

28. To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.

29. Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.

30. Based on a representative study conducted by Experian®, members who made their first purchase with Credit Builder between June 2020 and October 2020 observed an average FICO® Score 8 increase of 30 points after approximately 8 months. On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score.

31. On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Chime will report your activities to Transunion®, Experian®, and Equifax®. Impact on your credit may vary, as Credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations.

32. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.

33. SpotMe® on Debit is an optional, no fee overdraft service attached to your Chime Checking Account. To qualify for the SpotMe on Debit service, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month and have activated your Visa debit card. Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account for up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially but may later be eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe on Debit limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime’s sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe on Debit, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe on Debit will not cover any non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. SpotMe on Debit Terms and Conditions.

34. Tipping or not tipping has no impact on your eligibility for SpotMe®.

35. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

36. Save When I Get Paid automatically transfers 10% of your direct deposits of $500 or more from your Checking Account into your savings account.

37. Round Ups automatically round up debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the round up from your Chime Checking Account to your savings account.

38. Mobile Check Deposit eligibility is determined by Chime in its sole discretion and may be granted based on various factors including, but not limited to, a member’s direct deposit enrollment status.

39. Funds are automatically debited from your Checking Account and typically deposited into the recipient’s Checking Account within seconds. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed.

40. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. Non-Chime members must use a valid debit card to claim funds.

41. MyPay is only offered in select states

42. To be eligible for MyPay, you must receive qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account as set forth in the MyPay Agreement. A qualifying direct deposit is a deposit from an employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, government benefits payer, or other permitted source of income by Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) or Original Credit Transaction (“OCT”). Your MyPay Credit Limit and Maximum Available Advance may change at any time. MyPay is a line of credit and available limits are based on estimated income and risk-based criteria. Eligible members may be offered a $20 – $500 Credit Limit per pay period. Your Credit Limit and Maximum Available Advance will be displayed to you within the Chime app. MyPay is currently only available to eligible Chime members in certain states. Other restrictions may apply.

43. Not affiliated with Empower Annuity Insurance Company of America (www.empower.com). Not everyone will qualify. Offers range from $10-$300 for first-time customers; $10-$400 for all others. Offers are based on our eligibility requirements and can go up with on-time payments. In Feb 2025, the average offer was $95 for first-time customers; $187 for all others. Instant delivery is optional—see fees in Empower’s Terms. Empower offers a 14-day trial for first-time customers followed by an auto-recurring $8/month subscription fee. Cancel anytime.

* EarnIn is not available for Connecticut residents

Rachel Alulis

Rachel Alulis has been the lead editor for Moneyfor's credit cards team since 2015 and for the financial rewards team since 2023. Before joining Moneyfor, Rachel worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register. She then established a successful freelance writing and editing business specializing in personal finance. Rachel holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and an MBA.

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10 Tips for Getting Your Credit Card Application Approved

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