The Security Of Online Credit Card Applications

Summary: An online credit card application is much like one that is sent through the mail, but with an added touch of security. An encrypted website will allow applicants to safely and securely enter their personal information, including a social security number, without having to worry about third parties gaining access. It can often be troublesome to mail a credit card application, which contains a social security number, due to the increasing number of identity theft reports. Th...

An online credit card application is much like one that is sent through the mail, but with an added touch of security. An encrypted website will allow applicants to safely and securely enter their personal information, including a social security number, without having to worry about third parties gaining access. It can often be troublesome to mail a credit card application, which contains a social security number, due to the increasing number of identity theft reports. There are many benefits to using an online credit card application, including the aforementioned security factor. In addition, many applicants enjoy the prospect of an instant decision, which is offered by many online credit card grantors. Most major banks offer instant decisions, often as quickly as 60 seconds. For applications that require additional review or if the creditor needs to verify additional information from the applicant, the final credit decision may be mailed to the borrower rather than him/her receiving an instant decision. When completing an online credit card application, be sure to choose a financial institution that you are familiar with. This is not to say that it has to be a bank with which you have a current relationship with, but rather one that you have heard of and know to be reputable. The reason is because you have to be very careful when giving out certain personal information, such as a social security number, and should only do so to a known credit grantor. Online credit card applications are extremely convenient for other reasons, such as the number of available choices. Searching for a credit card online is much different than waiting for a pre-approval letter to arrive in the mail, which does not happen every day. But, with the internet, you can sign on 24/7 and submit a secure application to an array of lenders who are eager to welcome new customers. Many financial institutions offer a choice of credit cards, from which the borrower may apply, along with a detailed list of terms and conditions. Many credit cards require that the borrower pay an annual fee and, with an online credit card application, the borrower will be able to locate which cards have an annual fee, which are free to carry and which ones offer the best interest rates. When completing an online credit card application, the borrower will want to have his/her contact information on hand, along with knowing their annual income, employers name, address and telephone number, etc. In addition, many online credit card applications request that the applicant provide information regarding whether or not they currently have a checking or savings account, but rarely ever ask the balance on either.