How to Apply for a Credit Card Online
3 Min Read | Published: December 22, 2025
This article contains general information and is not intended to provide information that is specific to American Express products and services. Similar products and services offered by different companies will have different features and you should always read about product details before acquiring any financial product.
Thinking of applying for a credit card? You can do it all from your phone. Here’s what you’ll need, how to prequalify, and when to expect your new card.
At-A-Glance
- Applying for a credit card online can be simple. Most approvals take just minutes, and you can do it all from your phone.
- You’ll need some basic information, such as your income, employment details, and Social Security number.
- Prequalification tools can show you options with no initial impact on your credit score.
These days, you don’t have to visit a bank branch or fill out piles of paperwork to get a credit card. Applying online is the way to go for many people: It can be fast, it’s secure, and you can compare cards from the comfort of your couch.
If you’re thinking about applying for your first card (or your next one), here’s how the process works and what you’ll need to get started.
Apply for a Credit Card Online
The process may vary a little depending on the card issuer, but here are some of the standard steps to applying for a credit card online:
- Compare Your Options
Browse different types of cards, like cash back, travel, balance transfer, or low intro APR cards, to find one that fits your goals. - Check Prequalified Offers
Some issuers may let you use prequalification tools to see if you’re likely to be approved. You may be able to take advantage of these tools before impacting your credit score with a formal application. - Gather Your Info
You’ll usually need to provide details like your full name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, employment status, annual income, and your monthly housing payment.1 - Fill Out the Application
Once you’ve gathered all the required information, you can apply for your chosen card directly online. You may be able to get a decision in minutes.2 - Wait for Your Card to Arrive
The time it takes to receive your credit card may vary, but for some issuers, it takes 7 to 10 business days.3 Some issuers may allow you to add your new card to your digital wallet right away.4
Tips for Applying Online
Applying online is typically pretty straightforward, but there are a few ways you can make it go even smoother, like:
- Protect Against Scammers
When you apply for a credit card, you need to provide sensitive information, so it’s best to stick to secure websites, use a protected Wi-Fi connection, and apply directly through a well-known financial institution to avoid any potential phishing scams. - Don’t Apply for Multiple Cards at Once
Applying for multiple credit cards at once may make lenders wary and negatively impact your credit score. - Think About Your Financial Habits
Different credit cards can benefit different people, so choose a card that meshes with your lifestyle, like a travel card if you’re a frequent flyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll need to provide some personal information, like your name, address, and Social Security number. You’ll also need to provide some financial details, like your income and employment info.
Secured credit cards may be a good choice for beginners or those rebuilding credit. If you want to apply for a standard credit card, online prequalification tools can help you see if you’ll qualify.
Yes! Many applications give you a near-instant decision. Just be sure to compare offers first to find the right fit.
The Takeaway
Applying for a credit card online can be a simple, quick, and convenient process. By comparing your options, checking prequalified offers, and applying securely, you can take the first step toward building credit and enjoying new perks. Ready to start? Explore the Card Shop, compare Amex® Credit Cards, and see if there’s one that fits your goals.
1 “How to Apply for a Credit Card?,” Experian
2 “How Long Does It Take to Get a Card?,” US News
3 “When will I receive my new Card?,” American Express
4 “Instant Credit Card Number: Approval and Use,” American Express
Scott Drueding Hanson is a content writer and copywriter based in Brooklyn. His work focuses primarily on personal finance.
All Credit Intel content is written by freelance authors and commissioned and paid for by American Express.
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