How do I ask creditors to reconsider a denied application?

If your credit card application was denied, you can ask the creditor to reconsider your application by calling their reconsideration line. This gives you a chance to explain your financial situation and potentially overturn the decision.

Call the reconsideration line as soon as you receive the denial notice—ideally within 30 days. Acting quickly increases the chance of reversing the decision before it becomes final or before your credit profile changes again.

Reasons Your Credit Card Application Can Be Denied

• Too much existing debt: High balances suggest you're overextended and may struggle with more credit.
• Low credit score or limited credit history: Credit card issuers may see you as a high risk if you have little to no credit history.
• Too many recent applications or inquiries: Applying for several cards at once can raise red flags and lower your score.
• Insufficient income: Your income may not support additional monthly debt obligations.
• Negative account history: Late payments or bankruptcies can significantly impact your approval chances.

If your credit card application is denied, start by calling the card issuer to ask for reconsideration as sometimes a simple clarification or update to your income can change the outcome. You should also review your credit reports for any errors, pay down existing debt, and give your credit time to improve before applying again. If needed, consider applying for a more suitable card, like a secured or student credit card, to build your credit profile.

How to Ask for a Credit Card Reconsideration

1. Know why you were denied. Review the denial letter or notice.
2. State why you're calling. Let the issuer know you're requesting reconsideration.
3. Be prepared to make your case. Highlight recent positive changes (e.g., higher income, paid-off debts).
4. Be open to negotiations. You may be approved for a lower limit or different product.
5. Sell yourself as loyal and responsible. If you have an existing relationship with the issuer, be sure to mention it.

If you decide to request reconsideration, you’ll need to contact the card issuer directly. Below are the reconsideration phone numbers for major credit card companies.

Reconsideration Lines for Major Credit Card Companies

A credit card denial isn’t the end of the road. By understanding the reason, improving your financial profile, and reaching out through the proper channels, you may be able to turn a "no" into a "yes." Even if not, it's a valuable opportunity to strengthen your credit for future applications.

For more details, check out WalletHub’s credit card reconsideration guide.

Don't worry! Call or write asking for a reconsideration! Denials are often computer generated based strictly on score. A manual review by an underwriter can often get you the approval you are looking for. Here are several suggestions:

1. Call the number on your denial letter and ask for your application to be reconsidered. If possible, try and get a hold of someone in underwriting. Be prepared to explain the derogs on your report and why you feel you should be approved.

2. Submit your case via planetfeedback.com. PFB is an excellent resource for getting directly in contact with executive and corporate offices.

3. Send a reconsideration letter. There are no " sample letters" persay for recon. You need to take your denial reasons and plead for reconsideration based on you and your individual reason(s) and your explanations.

Sample letter:

Greetings,
I am writing requesting reconsideration of the denial of my recent xxxxxx card application.
It appears I was denied after you pulled my Fcredit report. While the letter I received did not include specific reasons as to why I was denied, I would still like to go over the potentially negative information on my report.
High Inquiries:
I do have high credit inquiries at this time. Most of these are due to a xxxx and a loan lender shopping me around without my permission.
Card Utilization:
I also do indeed have high utilization reporting at this time. This was due to xxxx.  I recently paid off my credit cards, and I expect my report to reflect these changes within 30 days.
One Collection Account

There is one derogatory item on my Equifax report that is there in error. I have disputed this with all three credit bureaus. Transunion and Experian have already deleted, and Equifax should be removing it anytime. .
You will notice I have no other late payments, collection accounts or, general negative items on my report. I have had credit for xx years with xx open tradelines with perfect payment history. I appreciate you taking the time to reconsider my application. I hope my explanation clears things up so I can be another proud xxxxxx card holder and customer.

Sincerely, you