Building Your Credit: Applying for Credit Cards Online Responsibly

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / March 29, 2024 / Applying for a credit card has never been easier, given the many opportunities to apply online for a credit card. With the ease of access to credit cards, it can be tempting to apply for many cards at once and hope you're approved for one.

To responsibly apply for a credit card and build your credit, it's good to keep in mind what you want to use your credit card for and what your financial situation is. Here's some important information on building your credit and applying for credit cards online.

Credit card basics

Credit cards are financial tools offered by lending institutions that allow you to make purchases by borrowing against a predetermined line of credit. When you use a credit card for a transaction, the funds are not immediately deducted from your bank account. Instead, they are drawn from your allotted credit limit, which you are then responsible for repaying.

The flexibility of credit card payments means you can either settle your balance in full each month or opt for monthly installments. It's essential to be aware, however, that any balance carried over month to month will accrue interest. This interest accumulates on your remaining balance and can significantly increase the total amount you owe over time.

The way you intend to use your card should inform which card you select. If you know you can pay off your balance each month, the interest rate may be a secondary concern; you might prioritize cards offering rewards or other perks. Conversely, if you anticipate maintaining an ongoing balance, seeking a card with a lower interest rate should be your priority to minimize cost, even if it offers fewer benefits.

Understanding your credit score

Your credit score is a three-digit number between 300 and 900 based on information contained in your credit report. The higher your number, the better your score. Credit scores are used by credit card companies, mortgage lenders, landlords for rental purposes, car dealerships, mobile phone retailers, insurance companies, and, sometimes, utility companies.

Your credit report is established when you borrow money or apply for a credit card for the first time. The lenders forward information about your accounts -- including the amounts owed, how much you owe compared with how much credit is available to you, and your payment history -- to the credit bureaus. Your credit score is calculated from that information.

Your credit score changes over time, increasing if you're responsible with your debt management and decreasing if you have difficulties managing it. Having a good credit score is important, especially when looking to obtain a significant loan, such as a mortgage.

Choosing the best card for you

There are many credit card options available online. Taking the time to research and compare cards will help you find the best card for your needs. Having multiple credit card applications out in a short period of time can negatively affect your credit score, so it's best to do your research and only apply for the card that fits your unique needs.

Your personal circumstances play an important role in determining which card is best for you. Pay attention to factors such as:

• Whether there's an annual fee, and whether that fee is worth it for the perks, benefits, and rewards.
• The interest rates. Different cards have different rates, so finding one that works with your budget is key.
• The credit limit and whether you will have the option of asking for a credit limit increase or decrease if your financial situation changes.
• The type of rewards or benefits you hope to obtain, if any.
• What you'll use the card for. Will you use it for daily purchases? Emergencies? Travel? Knowing your spending habits and what you mostly plan on using your card for will narrow down your options.

Keep in mind that store or retail credit cards often come with higher interest rates than those offered by financial institutions. Be sure to compare the interest rates.

How to apply

Once you've decided on a card, it's a quick process to apply for it online. You must be the age of majority in the province you live in to apply for a credit card (18 or 19, depending on where you live in Canada).

Check your credit score and credit report before applying, so you have an idea of where you stand. If anything in your credit report isn't accurate, report it to the credit bureau responsible.

Then, gather the information you'll need to complete the application. This typically includes:

• Full name and date of birth
• Contact information (including address, phone number, and email address)
• Information about current and previous employers
• Gross annual income
• Social Insurance Number (this is optional)
• Any other credit cards you have

Before you submit your application, read the terms and conditions to ensure you understand what's expected from you as a cardholder. Also, be sure to only apply for a credit limit you can manage.

Once you've applied, you'll receive a notification about whether you've been approved.

After you have your credit card, keep track of your spending, remember to make at least the minimum payments monthly (more, if you can afford to do so), and use your credit card responsibly.

CONTACT:

Sonakshi Murze
Manager
sonakshi.murze@iquanti.com

SOURCE: iQuanti