AT A GLANCE:
- Getting authorized for a credit card can be quick, but most cards are still sent, which can take seven to ten days to arrive.
- However, if you qualify, an Instant Card Number from American Express® allows you to attach your card to your digital wallet and make purchases on the same day you are accepted.
- If you have a low credit score or a short credit history, applying for an instant approval card may be more difficult.
1. Entry-Level / Beginner Cards
Target users: New to credit or rebuilding credit
Typical credit score: 300–669 (poor to fair)
Income range: Any stable income source; usually $10,000–$25,000+ annual income
Credit history: Little or none required
Card type: Secured cards or student cards
How to Apply for Instant Approval Credit Cards
Common features:
Requires a security deposit ($200–$500)
Reports to major credit bureaus (helps build score)
Low or no rewards; moderate annual fees sometimes
Examples:
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Capital One Platinum Secured
Chime Credit Builder Visa®
OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
Petal® 1 Visa (no deposit required)
💳 2. Mid-Tier / Standard Unsecured Cards
Target users: Average credit (some experience)
Typical credit score: 670–739 (good credit)
Income range: $25,000–$60,000+
Credit history: At least 1–2 years of on-time payments
Card type: Unsecured cards with moderate rewards or cash back
Common features:
No deposit required
Decent credit limit ($2,000–$10,000 typical)
1–2% cash back or basic travel points
Examples:
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Capital One QuicksilverOne®
Citi® Double Cash Card
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Card
💎 3. Premium / Rewards Cards
Target users: Excellent credit and steady income
Typical credit score: 740+ (very good to excellent)
Income range: $60,000–$150,000+
Credit history: 3+ years of strong payment record
Card type: High-limit travel, cashback, or lifestyle rewards cards
Common features:
High limits ($10,000+)
Premium benefits (airport lounges, hotel points, travel insurance)
Annual fees ($95–$695 typical)
Higher approval standards
Examples:
Chase Sapphire Preferred® / Reserve®
American Express® Gold or Platinum
Capital One Venture Rewards
Citi Premier® Card
U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve® Visa Infinite
🏆 4. Business Credit Cards
Target users: Small-business owners / freelancers
Credit score: 700+ preferred
Income range: Depends on business revenue (usually $50k–$500k+)
Credit history: 2+ years of personal/business credit
Examples:
Chase Ink Business Preferred®
American Express® Blue Business Plus
Capital One Spark Cash Plus
🔍 Tips for Approval Success
Always check pre-approval offers before applying — avoids unnecessary hard inquiries.
✅ Keep your credit utilization below 30% (best under 10%).
✅ Pay on time — even one missed payment can drop your score fast.
✅ Avoid applying for multiple cards in a short time (space out by 3–6 months).
✅ If new to credit, start with a secured card, build 6–12 months of history, then upgrade.