How multiple credit card applications affect your approval

When on the hunt for your next piece of plastic, it’s wise to narrow down your choices early and apply for your most desirable card first. If you’re putting out multiple applications, it may actually decrease your chances of getting a new card.

Does applying for a credit card hurt your credit score?

Each time you apply for a card, the credit provider dives into your credit report to see if you’d be a good candidate. This process is often called a “hard pull” on your credit report. A small portion of your credit score is affected by how recently you’ve applied for a credit card.

Each hard pull on your credit report will knock off a few points from your score. This dip is temporary, usually disappearing in about six months. However, multiple inquiries into your personal credit within a short period of time can quickly add up and become more detrimental to your credit score. Each subsequent credit provider will see this score and gain the impression that you’re a higher risk applicant, which would then likely cause them to reject your application.

Fortunately, the number of inquiries recorded on your credit report is only one of several factors considered.

Does my credit score still go down if my card application is accepted?

Yes. No matter if you’re rejected or accepted, your credit score will take the same hit. Again, this is temporary, lasting about six months. That means if you plan on applying for several types of loans, you might want to space out your applications.

How can I keep my credit file in good shape and improve my chances of credit card approval?

When it comes to improving your chances of getting a new credit card, a smart strategy is to keep your credit history clean and free from black marks.

Some of the steps you should follow to increase your chances of approval while maintaining a good credit history:

• Make timely repayments. A sign that you’re trustworthy with a line of credit is — you guessed it — paying your bills on time.
• Avoid payment defaults. Defaulting on loan payments looks terrible on your credit report and could also lead to severe legal repercussions.
• Don’t overspend. Learning to curb your expenses will benefit both your credit file and finances in the long run.
• Check your credit report regularly. Request your free yearly credit report and check that it is error-free. If you find something on your file that legitimately doesn’t belong there, contact the reporting agencies so they can investigate and rectify the matter.
• Submit one application at a time. This will limit unnecessary hard pulls on your credit file. Choose the most suitable credit card, apply and wait for a response. If your application has been declined, consider applying for the next most suitable card. You’ll want to wait for a small period of time before applying again.
• Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. Applicants usually need to be at least 18 years old, a permanent US resident and have a good credit history. You also may be asked to provide information about your employment and finances, so make sure you have the necessary documents to simplify the application process.

Compare credit cards

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Name	Product	Filter values	Rewards	Purchase APR	Annual fee
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express			3% at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year (then 1%), 2% at US gas stations and select US department stores and 1% on other purchases (redeem as statement credit)	0% intro for the first 15 months (then 13.99% to 23.99% variable)	$0	Apply now View details	Earn a $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months. This is a higher-than-average welcome offer for a card with no annual fee. Terms apply, see rates & fees	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express			6% on select US streaming services, 3% on transit and US gas stations, 6% at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 annually, then 1% after that and on other purchases (redeem as statement credit)	0% intro for the first 12 months (then 13.99% to 23.99% variable)	$0 intro annual fee for the first year ($95 thereafter)	Apply now View details	Earn a $300 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months. Having 6 months to earn a welcome offer is a rare benefit as most cards give you only 3. Terms apply, see rates & fees	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card			N/A	0% intro for the first 12 months (then 13.74% to 23.74% variable)	$0	Apply now View details	Best of Finder 2021 An impressive 21 months intro APR on balance transfers and purchases, as well as no annual fee make this one of the top 0% APR cards available.	Compare	loading Fetching your data...

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Bottom line

There’s nothing wrong with owning multiple credit cards, though you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time in between each to keep your credit score healthy. Do your research with our credit card guide to learn how to carefully compare your options to be certain that the card you apply for is the right one.

Frequently asked questions

• Does checking my credit score affect my credit?

  No. Checking your credit score has no affect on your overall credit.

• Does a hard pull subtract the same number of points from a credit score each time?

  Not necessarily. A credit inquiry can affect your score more or less depending on your overall credit history. With a positive credit history, you can expect less of a hit to your score.

• How long should I wait to open a new credit card?

  Stick to six-month intervals in between applications. This lets your credit score bounce back from the temporary dip caused by the initial inquiry.