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Updated
If you’ve recently applied for a credit card, you might be wondering how long you should wait before applying for your next one.
Typically, six or more months is the optimal waiting period, as it’s long enough that your previous application won’t drag down your next one. However, you can apply sooner if you’re a strong applicant with an excellent credit score.
There are a variety of reasons why you might want to wait before applying for another credit card. These include:
Typically, it’s best to wait at least six months between credit card applications. If you’re a strong applicant — for example, you have an excellent credit score or high income — you can consider applying more frequently. Even then, consider waiting at least three months between applications.
As we discussed above, submitting multiple credit applications within a short period of time implies the applicant is desperate for credit. Three to six months is generally enough time for a previous application not to negatively impact your new application.
Yes — you can submit applications for different credit cards at the same time. But consider avoiding this, because each time you submit an application, the provider will initiate a hard pull on your credit report that will lower your credit score by several points.
A lower credit score and multiple applications on your credit report can hurt your subsequent applications. To combat this, apply for cards selectively.
If you’re ready to apply for another credit card, consider getting a product that covers the weaknesses of your existing card.
For example, your current card might offer poor rewards for certain spend categories. You can get a new card with bonus rewards in those categories, giving you strong cash back, points or miles for more of your expenses.
It’s wise to wait six months between credit card applications. If you have a strong credit score and high income, you might be able to apply sooner. As a rule of thumb, three months is the minimum you should wait.
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