Apply for a Credit Card Online the Safe Way
Credit cards are widely used by many people because of the great number of conveniences it offers, this is most especially with the working professionals. But unlike before, you can now apply for a credit card online. With the help of the Internet, making an application online is very much possible.
Credit card is a card given to a specified holder who is entitled with a credit line. With a credit card, its holder can withdraw cash or make purchases on credit. After a specified period, the amount charged will be paid by the holder. An interest charges are also applied where applicable, and some banks make annual fee charges.
The use of a credit card gives a lot of people convenience most especially if they don't have cash on hand. Just in case they need to make emergency purchases, or withdrawals; the credit card is always handy.
Many people, however, are reluctant to make any application online. And this is true especially when it comes to credit card applications. Most people think that it is quite unsafe to make such private application online.
This is the most common misconception because applying for a credit card online is very much safe as making an application in a bank. Why? because your application form (for a credit card) is secure, and you are directly applying with the bank.
Different issuing banks have their very own websites, and they provide secure application forms. There are 'middlemen' on the net, but their job is simply to refer prospective clients to the issuing bank's website.
So you just have to make sure that you're filling out a secured application form. Most of todays browsers are SSL equipped, so that all-important information is sent encrypted to the issuing bank.
The fact remains that there are also a lot of scammers on the net; just to be sure, never send any number, especially that of a credit card or SSN, through email because it is unsafe. Any information sent through unencrypted forms is unsafe. As an applicant, you have to be alert, and very careful.
How do you make an online application? First, you have to choose among many credit card issuers. And in doing such transaction, you must be of legal age, which is 18 years old and above.
Most applications are easily processed if the applicant has an email address, driver's license, employer details, and other things which pertain to your salary/wages and employment or source of income.
Employer details include the name of the employer, address and telephone number. If you have existing loans, you should also provide information about it, it can be a personal debt or a personal loan. Most credit card issuing banks will require you to provide them with details about your present credit card, current balances, and credit limits.
There are also banks which would require you to provide information about your current assets which includes your house, investment properties, bank accounts, vehicles, and shares. Others also ask for the national identification number or NIN.
Upon submission of the application form, you can wait for a few seconds or minutes to have your application confirmed. If you have a good credit rating, you're application will be approved soon. Usually, it would take about three to five days before you get your credit card.
Having a credit card entails responsibility. You must have a good credit reputation; otherwise, you will find it hard to secure a credit card the next time you apply for it.