How do I get approved for a store credit card?

To get approved for a store credit card, you’ll need fair credit or better in most cases, in addition to a reliable source of income to show that you're capable of making monthly bill payments. You can apply online or in a store, and you may even be able to get instant approval. Just fill out your personal information, wait for the issuer to run a credit check, and as long as you meet all the card’s requirements, you’ll likely be approved.  

There are a few more steps and things to consider, however, to ensure that you have good approval odds and can make the most of your chosen store card’s features.

How to Get Approved for a Store Credit Card

1. Check your credit score. Start by checking to make sure you have at least a fair credit score of 640 or higher. You can check your credit score for free on WalletHub, and even get advice on how to improve your score if needed. While store credit cards are usually easier to get than regular credit cards, you’ll have the best odds of approval if you have a positive credit history. Only a few store cards are available to people with bad credit.
2. Choose the store card you want. If your favorite store offers a credit card, that’s a good place to start your search, but consider the value you’ll get from the card before you settle. Make sure you’re aware of any fees and the APR range offered, and consider whether the card’s rewards program will net you a lot of value based on your existing shopping habits. Some store cards offer big first-purchase discounts, which can be appealing if you have a large purchase in mind and want to save some money.
3. Get pre-qualified. You may be able to get pre-qualified for store credit cards with select retailers, which will help you decide which are worth applying for. If a store card offers pre-qualification, you’ll typically find the prequalification tool on the store’s website. You can also sign up for a free WalletHub account to see cards you have good odds of being approved for that are likely to save you a lot of money. This may include store-affiliated credit cards.
4. Read the fine print. Double-check the terms and conditions before you apply. Be especially wary of 0% APR offers, as store cards with 0% financing usually have deferred interest.
5. Apply online or at a store. Depending on the merchant, you can either apply online or in person at a store. You’ll need to supply your name, address, phone number, Social Security number, date of birth, annual income, email address, and any other identifying information the application calls for. You’ll also need a fair credit score or better, and your income and other debts will all be taken into account as they would be with any credit card application.
6. Get approved. Most store credit cards offer instant approval, so you’ll know right away whether you’re getting the card. Otherwise, it can take around 7-10 business days to get approved. Once approved, it can often take 7 - 10 business days to get your credit card in the mail. Some store cards allow you to use the card before you receive it, or they may give you a temporary card right away in-store.
7. Enjoy any new-cardholder promotions. Many store credit cards offer attractive sign-up bonuses, such as bonus points, gift cards, or store discounts. For example, the Kohl's Credit Card offers a 40% discount on your first Kohl’s purchase within 30 days of getting approved for the card. Many store cards offer attractive ongoing rewards, too.

It’s worth comparing your preferred store card to the best rewards credit cards to see which will net you the most rewards and benefits. If you have at least good credit, you’ll have a lot of options to choose from and could end up with multiple cards in your wallet. As always, try not to apply for too many cards too quickly, since doing so can damage your credit score. You can learn more from our guide to getting a credit card.