How do I know if I am approved?

Question

I am a college student trying to establish credit and build my credit score. I just applied for an Express (the fashion store) credit card online. I did not get approved instantly. Instead, I got a message on my screen saying that my application is under review and I would be notified in 7 to 10 days. Do I still have a shot at being approved? Or is this the "nice way" of saying that I didn't get approved?

Please help. I really want to start building my credit, but I can't get a credit card at any store because I don't have any credit.
:(

Answer 1

The 7-10 day message does not automatically mean you are denied. More than likely your application is being reviewed by an underwriter.
Also, there are some creditors than "never" give an auto approval.

You might wait 3 days then call and request the status of your application. If you find that you are denied, you might ask for reconsideration. If the CSR you speak to is unhelpful, request to speak to an underwriter.

Since you are a student, you might consider major credit cards for students. (student credit cards are "generally" a little easier to get than other major cards or store cards)

Bank of America, Chase and Citi have excellent student credit cards (many students seem pretty happly with Citi's MTVu credit card)

If you have been applying quite a bit lately and have a bunch of inquiries then you might wait to apply for "any" card until those inquiries age at least 4-6 months.

Answer 2

With in-store credit they should have given you a number to call. Call and ask. But store cards are not the way to establish credit.
Join your local credit union, they will guide you into building good credit. Establish a saving account and you can them borrow money against your shares( what they call savings) and save on the interest. Credit Unions are a get source of info and support. Stay away from instant credit offers. Be careful to see what the interest rates are. Store and gas card run 18% to 30% who can afford that.
And remember, pay utilities on time.... they report to credit bureaus. Pay all you bills on time.

Good Luck

Answer 3

Individual store cards are not the easiest way to start. Do you have any student loans in your name? If so, you are already establishing your credit by making these payments.
If not, try getting a bank credit card through Visa or Masstercard. They are easier to get and, you can use them anywhere.

Answer 4

In my past experiences when they say we will notify you, that means no. But there is still a chance they might approve you. If they don't, you can always try to get a secured credit card from a bank.

How it works is that you have to pay your credit limit. So you have to pay $300.00 to get a credit limit of $300.00. But you can make payments, so it count toward your credit. And after sometime you may be able to get a unsecured credit card.

Hope it helps

Good luck and Merry Christmas :)

Answer 5

You may still approved. They will let you know by mail or e-mail if your not approved. You may have to wait do to the holiday, the lack of credit, ect.
I bought a really cheap car and payed it off. That is how I established my credit. Make sure you pay everything on time. It will hurt you if you don't.
Good Luck!