Pre-Application Considerations for Credit Cards

As per the data from August 2019, there were an astonishing 51.7 million credit cards in circulation in India. This figure highlights an increasing trend towards using credit cards as a primary method for financial management. The growing inclination of financial institutions towards approving credit card applications is a significant contributing factor. However, to extract the maximum benefit from a credit card, potential cardholders should consider a few essential factors before applying, including understanding how to track their credit card application status.

Understanding the Eligibility Criteria

Prior to applying for a credit card, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria defined by the issuing financial institution. Being well-informed about these requirements minimizes the chances of application rejection. Typically, these standard eligibility criteria include:

• Being a resident Indian citizen.
• Age between 25 and 65 years.
• A clean credit history without any defaults.
• Stable source of income that matches the minimum income limit set by the financial institution.

It’s important to remember that the eligibility criteria can differ across financial institutions. Therefore, it’s recommended to verify these criteria with your chosen institution to avoid potential application rejections.

Exploring the Features and Benefits

Potential cardholders should familiarize themselves with the list of features and benefits provided by their preferred credit card. This knowledge ensures a wise and optimal utilization of the credit card. Most leading credit cards offer secure transactions, easy verification processes, and EMI conversion facilities. They also extend attractive reward points, cash withdrawal facilities from ATMs, and the option to avail emergency loans against the available credit limit. Prospective cardholders should understand the various methods to redeem and accumulate their reward points, which can make their future transactions more cost-effective.

Documentation Requirements

Identifying the required documents for the credit card application is another crucial step. Typically, financial institutions will ask for the following documents:

• Voter ID.
• Driving license.
• Aadhaar card.
• Birth certificate.
• Form 16.
• Recent salary slips.
• Form 60 or PAN card.
• Latest bank statements.
• Utility bills such as electricity and water bills.

Understanding the Application Process

Getting a grip on the application process can contribute to a successful application. Applications can be submitted either online, through the lender’s online portal, or offline by visiting a branch of the financial institution. Regardless of the application mode chosen, knowing how to check a credit card application status can be useful in tracking the approval process and taking necessary steps in case of any issues.

Assessing the Associated Charges

Understanding the charges associated with a credit card is vital before applying. Prospective cardholders should check for joining fees, annual fees, and late payment charges among others. If these charges appear to make the transactions expensive, it might be worthwhile to look for credit cards with more reasonable charges.

In conclusion, thorough research and understanding of a credit card’s eligibility criteria, required documentation, and application process is essential before proceeding with an application. Equally important is an understanding of the associated charges and the method to check the credit card application status. This careful preparation will enable individuals to use their credit card intelligently and maximize its benefits.