What Credit Card is the Easiest to Get? A Guide to Quick Approval Credit Cards in 2024

In today’s financial landscape, many people seek accessible credit card options to either build their credit or meet immediate spending needs. However, which one of these credit cards is a breeze to accept? Some cards are designed for first-time applicants, others for that person who needs to rebuild credit, and still others are just simple to get approved for. Use this guide to help you assess finding credit cards that are easiest to qualify for, things to consider before applying, and advantages of the best card for your credit profile.

Key Takeaways

• Instant Approval options help applicants get a credit card without long waiting periods.
• Secured Credit Cards are usually one of the best-recommended options for those with little or no credit.
• Although we know retail credit cards may be easier to be approved for and potentially offer loyalty perks.
• Approval odds depend on credit rating, income, and card type.
• Know your goals — in other words, make sure that you know what you want from a credit card to select the correct card for your particular requirements.

What to Know Before Applying for an Easy-Approval Credit Card

Here’s what to consider:

Your Credit Score: While this is your actual credit score, it still impacts what credit cards may or may not be available to you. For example, secured and student credit cards are oriented toward people with low or no credit, or younger applicants with limited credit history, respectively.

Income and Debt: Some cards may require proof of income or a stable job, as this helps lenders determine your ability to repay.

Application Frequency : Credit cards which require a “hard inquiry” once you apply can be harmful to the credit score when applied for too often. Try looking at pre-qualified credit card offers that don’t initiate a hard pull.

Types of Credit Cards That Are Easy to Get Approved For

1. Secured Credit Cards

Secured credit cards are some of the easiest forms of credit to obtain for buyers who have little to no credit history. These cards require a refundable security deposit that typically matches the credit limit. Since the deposit reduces the risk for the card issuer, approval is more likely.

Pros: Easier approval, credit-building potential, possible graduation to unsecured credit cards.

Cons: Requires an upfront deposit and may have limited rewards.

Example Cards:

Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
Discover it® Secured Credit Card

With a secured card also among the easiest ways to start building your credit, nearly one in five Americans do just that.

Tip:

The secured cards are an excellent choice to both rebuild credit and even help build a credit score as long as the account is managed responsibly.

2. Retail Store Credit Cards

Store credit cards — or retail credit cards, as they’re sometimes called — typically have less stringent qualifying criteria because they’re designed for shoppers of a particular store or brand. Such cards often come with benefits—discounts, loyalty points, and in some cases, even interest-free periods for in-store purchases.

Pros: Access for low-credit applicants, often bundled with store perks

Cons: Higher interest rates, limited usage outside the affiliated store.

Example Cards:

Target REDcard™

Amazon Store Card

Tip: Store cards can be an easy way to build credit, but make sure to choose a store you shop at regularly.

3. Student Credit Cards

Student credit cards — these cards are tailored for college students and are a good choice for young adults who have limited or no credit history. These are often low credit limit with minimal rewards but a great way to start building credit early. 

Pros: Easy to qualify for, often includes rewards, low fees.

Cons: Limited to students, lower credit limits.

Example Cards:

Credit Card Statistic: Among the U.S. credit cards used by college students, close to 40% use a student credit card to start building their credit history. Source: Discover it® Student Cash Back Chase Freedom® Student Credit Card.

4. Credit Cards with Pre-Approval Options

Several credit card companies offer pre-approval checks, allowing potential applicants to see if they’re likely to be approved without a hard credit inquiry. This process helps maintain your credit score while increasing your chances of approval.

Pros: Minimal impact on credit score, often instant decisions.

Cons: Pre-approval doesn’t guarantee final approval.

Example Cards:

American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card Tip: Pre-approval can come in handy if you want to know your approval odds. Search for cards that allow you to prequalify online.

Tips for Applying Successfully for an Easy-Approval Credit Card

Know Your Credit Report: Checking out your credit report will help you gain a better understanding of any problems that should be resolved prior to applying. Limit Applications: Only apply for one card at the same time to prevent multiple inquiries.

Maintain Stable Income: A steady income can improve your approval chances and potentially lead to higher credit limits.

Quote: “Applying strategically and focusing on cards tailored for your credit score is key to maximizing your approval chances.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Easy-Approval Credit Cards

Applying Too Often: Each time you apply, it usually leads to a hard inquiry, which reduces your credit score. 

Ignoring Fees: Some easy-approval cards come with high annual fees or other hidden costs. Be sure to check terms and conditions.

Mismanaging the Credit Utilization — never use more than 30% of your credit limit to continue having a positive impact on your credit score.

Statistics on Credit Card Approval Rates

Did you know?

About four in 10 credit card applications are rejected because there is not enough of a credit history or because of a high debt-to-income ratio.

In light of these, secured cards allow almost 90% approval, thus a perfect option for those wanting to build credit.

These statistics are useful if you want to know which cards may be the best ones for you to apply for considering your profile.

Conclusion

Choosing what credit card is the easiest to get depends on your credit profile, financial needs, and future credit goals. From secured credit cards for beginners to pre-approval options for those seeking less impact on their credit score, the options are diverse. Always weigh the benefits and limitations before committing, and keep an eye on potential fees and interest rates. Which option do you think suits you best? Feel free to explore our other guides on credit-building tips and financial planning for beginners to enhance your journey toward financial stability!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What credit card is the easiest to get with no credit?

If you have no credit, your best bet is usually a secured credit card or a student card.

Are there credit cards with guaranteed approval?

Although no card offers 100% approval, numerous secured cards accept a big pool of applicants who are approved.

Quick approval time?

Some retail credit cards and pre-approval offers give on-the-spot decisions, while others take a day or two.

Easy to get credit cards now in general have to pay lengthy to build credit?

Yes, provided you use them responsibly, credit cards with easy approval can increase your credit score. Is it possible to obtain a credit card for bad credit with easy approval?
Are cards available to those with terrible credit?

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