John Miller, Credit Cards Moderator
@john_miller
An instant issue credit card is a type of card that can be printed and handed to you on the spot, either when opening an account or when requesting a replacement. However, this feature isn’t very common in the U.S. Some credit unions and smaller banks may offer it, but for the most part, you’ll need to wait for the card to be mailed to the address on file, which usually takes 7-10 business days.
A Few Companies That Issue Credit Cards Instantly
- Fox Communities Credit Union
- Carolinas Telco Federal Credit Union
- Members Trust of the Southwest Federal Credit Union
Even if you can’t always walk out with a physical card, that doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to access your credit line right away. Some issuers, like Bank of America, Capital One or American Express, may let you use a digital or temporary card number immediately after approval, so you can start making purchases before the actual card arrives. This is also a common practice with store credit cards, as many retailers can print a temporary card number on the spot for immediate use.
That said, policies on instant use can vary, and you’re not always guaranteed to be able to use the card right after approval. If instant access to your credit line is something that you’re counting on, it’s a good idea to check with the issuer before applying, to confirm whether they offer this option and what the conditions are.
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