What happens when I apply online?

Many online applications will result in a provisional decision within 20 seconds.

Hot Topics

Why would my credit card application be turned down?: There are many reasons why your credit card application could be turned down, and these reasons vary between all credit card issuers.
Can I use my card abroad?: Using a credit card abroad is an easy way to make purchases of any kind as it saves you from carrying large amounts of cash around.
How much can I Balance Transfer and how long does it take?: Most credit card companies will only allow you to make a minimum of £100 balance transfer either from or to your credit account, because of the administration involved.
Can I request a specific credit limit?: Your credit card issuer will normally set a credit limit for you based on your application details, credit scoring and credit rating.
My Credit Card is lost or stolen. What should I do?: If you cannot find your credit cards you need to report them as lost or stolen using the emergency number provided by your credit card issuer, this will be a 24 hour/365 days a year number. If you have more than one credit card you will need to ring all the separate companies.

However, the credit card issuer will need to refer to their credit reference agency, and because they are closed from midnight until 6am each day (UK time), they will be unable to process applications during this period.

If further decision-making is required, your application will be referred and you may have to wait up to a week for a decision. Then once your application is approved, you will be sent written confirmation containing your Credit Agreement, a copy of it for your records, and a Direct Debit mandate for you to complete, sign and return.

Once they have received your completed forms and the agreement has been dated, and signed, your account will be set up and your credit card dispatched to your home. You will need to allow up to two weeks to receive your Card from the time the credit card company receives your completed forms.

All online applications are safe and secure, and are encrypted using the latest 128-bit technology, providing your browser supports it. All personal details are fully encrypted so it's actually more secure applying online than by phone or post.