Did you know a credit card application decline is not necessarily the end of story?
When you apply online for a credit card waiting for an answer can be excruciating. And, if your application is declined that sinking feeling sets in.
You may even get the 7-10 day processing notice which often means a decline letter is on the way. But a denial of credit does not have to be the final answer.
Most credit card companies have backdoor numbers that will connect you directly with an underwriter or credit analyst who has the authority to reverse decisions.
Whether you’re requesting reconsideration for an easy to get credit card or instant approval credit card for fair credit. Reconsideration is worth the asking.
What is credit card reconsideration?
Credit card reconsideration is when you request human eyes review your application if it has been denied. Having someone manually review your application can be the key to approval.
How credit card reconsideration works
1. Timing is Everything. Do not wait to ask for Reconsideration. Call immediately upon receiving the denial notice. If you wait 30 days or more you’ll end up having to apply again which will result in an additional hard credit pull.
2. Know your Credit Report and Score. Be familiar with your credit history and score. You need to have at least one, if not all of your credit reports from the three major credit bureaus – Experian, Equifax and Transunion in front of you. Be ready and able to explain any negative item and show how you have learned from a mistake. You can get all three major credit bureau reports online for free once a week.
3. Explain Excessive Inquiries. One of the most common reasons for a denial is “too many recent inquiries.” But there may be a good reason such as you are rebuilding credit or you may be shopping for a car loan.
4. Have good reasons for applying for the new card. Let the credit card company know why you want to do business with them; for instance:
- I like the cash back feature on every day purchases like gas and groceries.
- The rewards programs and bonus points fit my goals.
- The car rental insurance will save me money when I rent a car.
- The no foreign transaction fee is important to me.
- The 2x points for dining is such a great benefit as I entertain clients from time to time.
- I travel frequently and the trip cancellation and delay insurance is a feature important to me.
- The lost luggage insurance is a great benefit.
The most important takeaway here is to know what the credit card offers and be able to relate that back to the credit analyst in stating why you want their particular credit card.
5. Be positive and polite: Most credit analysts are professional but may come off as seeming less than concerned about you. But no matter how curt they appear never lose your cool and remain positive and polite. If the representative still denies you, thank them for their help and end the call. Wait a day or two and call another credit analyst. The outcome can be totally different.
You may have to do some digging or “googling” to find the right number for Reconsideration. You can also call the regular customer service line and ask them to put you through to an underwriter or credit analyst.