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6 Ideal Times to Apply for Credit Cards
6 Ideal Times to Apply for Credit Cards
For most of the things to work out, timing is the key. That’s true for credit cards as well. Applying for a credit card at the right time will ensure maximum rewards. Sometimes limited-time bonus may tempt a customer to apply for a credit card, but that doesn’t mean that is the correct time for them to apply for a credit card.
Prior to applying for a new card, one must think about why they need a new card? Is it to take benefit of a financial offer or the temptation of promised rewards by spending a particular amount of money within a time frame. All these bonuses are great, but the cardholder must be able to fully pay off the card at the end of the billing cycle. Apart from the added joining bonuses, one must also consider the purpose for which this particular card will be used. That can help in choosing the correct type of card out there.
Whether it is the first credit card or fifth, one must always be patient and make a thoughtful decision. The right time to apply for credit cards varies from individual to individual. To help customers decide whether this is the correct time for them to apply for a credit card, here is a list of 6 ideal scenarios where applying for a card is a sensible thing to do.
- When you Turn 18
When it comes to building financial credit, the best time to start is as soon as possible and 18 is the minimum age to apply for a credit card. Financial experts suggest young people to start building credit early, it also helps them in applying for a bigger loan in the future. For students out there, a College student credit card is a suitable option. Some of the banks have additional perks and incentives for students.
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Build or Rebuild Credit Card
If an individual has less than perfect credit score, getting a secured credit can help rebuild the credit score. These cards are geared for people with less than stellar credit scores and provide much better qualifying chances than a general card would. With secured credit cards, the deposit can be paid upfront as collateral. The cardholder would need to pay monthly card bills, but having a deposit on hand in case things don’t go well reduces the lender’s risk. But these cards tend to have smaller credit limits with more fees, so its important to research your options before applying for any card hastily.
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When you Plan on making a Big Ticket Purchase
Whether it is the much-awaited family vacation or some minor house repairs, a credit card offering the right kind of perks can be beneficial in reducing the cost or help save up on the dreaded interest. Some banks offer various perks on interest rates in the initial 1 year of the purchase or sign-up bonuses. Making a huge purchase will enable the cardholder to become eligible for claiming the bonus. Ensure that the bonus received is non-taxable. However, these additional perks aren’t available to everyone, having a strong credit score plays a crucial role.
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To Get Out of Debt
An individual with huge high-interest credit debt can opt for a balance transfer offer. This enables the cardholder to transfer the high-interest debt to balance transfer credit card with no interest for the introductory period. This allows the cardholder to quickly pay off the debt since the full payment goes towards repaying the principal amount and not the interest. The only drawback here is that this card comes with a transfer fee of 3% – 5%. So, be wise in deciding to take up the transfer offer and make ensure that it is worthwhile.
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Good Welcome Bonus
Credit card companies often offer a limited-time bonus or some exclusive bonus coupled with the basic rewards in the first few months of opening the account. But the catch here is to spend a predecided amount of money to become eligible for such bonuses. This will be a great option if someone is looking to make a huge purchase in the near future. Customers should be thoughtful before making any decision rather than getting enticed with the offered bonuses. The credit card should be a good fit for the holder if they can easily afford the spending requirements.
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You’ve Been Preapproved credit card
Many financial institutions offer a pre-qualification form that lets an individual gauge their chances of qualifying. Applying for multiple credit cards can be detrimental for credit score but applying for the pre-qualification form does not impact the credit score. It helps in narrowing the pool of credit card providers and chose the best one. While applying for a regular credit card, the bank has the authority to look at credit history which impacts the credit score. Although, pre-qualifying doesn’t guarantee approval of credit card, post this the bank will do a thorough credit check and make a final decision.
The financial decision to apply for a credit card is an important one just like buying a car or a house. You don’t buy the first car or house you come across, then why do it with your credit cards. Make a wise choice that suits you now and years to come.
Addison is a student of the Aust Abbottabad University of Science and Technology. He started his graduation in 2016 and graduated in 2020. I’m a professional article and blog writer, has written dozens of content on different topics and worked with professionals all over the globe. Feel free to contact me for any assistance. hamzafazal43@yahoo.com