When you need credit, getting it fast is always better than waiting.
To find out how fast you can get a credit card, you only need to do a little research, and know what to look for.
Good advice can help you get a new card fast, when you need it for a special purchase, vacation, or other immediate purpose.
Many credit companies today will allow you to complete an application online.
The benefit of this process is that you can find out almost immediately if you qualify for a card.
The application is the same as a paper application, mainly personal information and other details that allow the issuer to check your credit history.
Submitting your information using an online application speeds up the process, because the card company can check the details electronically, and make a decision right away.
The application process isn't the slow part of the process of getting a credit card, however.
Banks and card issuers can approve or deny your application in just minutes today.
The part of the process that takes time is issuance of the plastic itself.
You might call to find out in advance how long a card issuer takes to send you the card, or check the issuer's website to see if there is information that tells you how fast you can get your credit card once you are approved.
Some cards take weeks to be issued and sent to you.
Some companies make it a policy to get your card into your hands within a week.
If your card is customized, with a personal picture or other graphic, it can take a little longer to make the card and send it out.
For faster service, you may want to go with a generic card design.
If you really need the card in a hurry, you can ask customer service whether there is a priority service available.
Many issuers will create and send the card in a matter of days, sometimes for free but often for an extra fee.
It might be worth it to you, if you're leaving on vacation for example, and need to take it with you.
Be sure to call the card issuer's toll free number to find out if you have such an option.
When it comes to finding out how fast you can get a credit card, be sure to apply online for the fastest decision.
After you're approved, it's only a matter of days before you have your new card.