How long should I wait to apply for another credit card after being denied?

Asked by: Jackson Zemlak  |  Last update: October 24, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (52 votes)

What you can do about it. It's a good idea to wait three to six months between credit card applications. Otherwise, it might look like you're applying for too much new credit in a short period of time.

How long after credit card rejection can I apply?

If you have been rejected by the bank, do not reapply immediately. If possible, wait for six to eight months before reapplying and see if you can find out why you were denied. If you can then fix that issue, it may increase your chances of approval.

How long after applying for a credit card can I apply again?

It's also a good idea to wait at least 90 days between new credit card applications, and it's even better if you can wait a full 6 months. Waiting between credit card applications helps protect your credit score from the negative effects of too many credit inquiries.

What is the 15-3 rule on credit cards?

The 15/3 rule, a trending credit card repayment method, suggests paying your credit card bill in two payments—both 15 days and 3 days before your payment due date. Proponents say it helps raise credit scores more quickly, but there's no real proof. Building credit takes time and effort.

Can you reapply for a credit card you were rejected for?

Yes. You can also try calling the reconsideration department and ask them to approve you (easy with some issuers like Chase, impossible with issuers like Discover).

How long should you wait to apply for a credit card after being declined?

18 related questions found

Is it OK to apply for another credit card after being denied?

In practice, this means that it can be smart to wait a few weeks or months before applying for a new credit card after a denial. Several applications in a short time can make you look more risky to potential credit card issuers.

When should I apply for a credit card after declined?

It's a good idea to wait three to six months between credit card applications. Otherwise, it might look like you're applying for too much new credit in a short period of time.

What is the 3 credit card trick?

Make a credit card payment 15 days before the bill's due date. You might be told to make your minimum payment, or pay down at least half your bill, early. Make another payment three days before the due date. Then, pay the remainder of your bill—or whatever you can afford—before the due date to avoid interest charges.

What is the 524 credit rule?

The 5/24 rule, often referred to as the Chase 5/24 rule, is an unofficial Chase guideline that states you will not be approved for a new Chase card if you have opened five or more credit card accounts from any bank within the past 24 months.

Does making two payments a month help credit score?

Making several card payments during a month or a single billing cycle can indeed improve one's overall financial standing and ultimately increase their credit score, provided all other related aspects like those mentioned above are managed properly.

How soon is too soon to get a second credit card?

Generally, it's a good idea to wait about six months between credit card applications.

How many hard inquiries are too many?

There's no such thing as “too many” hard credit inquiries, but multiple applications for new credit accounts within a short time frame may point to a risky borrower. Rate shopping for a particular loan, however, may be treated as a single inquiry and have minimal impact on your creditworthiness.

What is the Capital One 6 month rule?

Capital One also has a hard-and-fast rule when timing your applications. You're only able to get approved for one card every six months. This lumps personal and small-business cards together.

How do I get a credit card after being denied?

It can be frustrating to apply for a credit card and get rejected.
  1. Wait to reapply.
  2. Learn why your application was denied.
  3. Improve your personal finances.
  4. Check your Credit Karma Approval Odds.
  5. Apply for the right card.

How long does declined credit card stay on file?

How long does refused credit stay on file? Two years. All enquiries for credit are removed from credit reports after two years, although credit rating agencies do not record whether an application for credit is refused or accepted.

How long to wait after a denied credit application?

As a general rule of thumb, consider waiting around three to six months before reapplying. In the meantime, try to improve your creditworthiness, which might increase your chances of getting approved when you reapply.

What is the 2 2 2 rule credit?

Adhere to the '2-2-2 Rule': Have at least two credit lines, each with a history of two years and a limit of at least $2,000. This shows lenders a consistent and responsible credit use. Diverse Credit Types: Ensure you have a mix of credit, especially revolving credit, which demonstrates active credit management.

What is the 32 credit rule?

The 32-hour rule for medical school admissions is a policy used by some admissions committees that focuses on an applicant's most recent credit hours of coursework instead of their entire undergraduate GPA.

What is the 40 credit rule?

The number of credits you need to be eligible for benefits depends on your age and the type of benefit. Anyone born in 1929 or later needs 10 years of work (40 credits) to be eligible for retirement benefits. How many credits you need for disability benefits depends on how old you are when your disability began.

What is the golden rule of credit cards?

The golden rule of Credit Cards is simple: pay your full balance on time, every time. This Credit Card payment rule helps you avoid interest charges, late fees, and potential damage to your credit score.

What is credit card flipping?

Credit card flipping is the process of applying for credit cards to earn sign-up bonuses, then closing the account or moving on to another card, which can be bad for your credit score. However, this isn't often possible, as many card issuers have instituted rules to prevent this from happening.

Does paying your credit card twice a month help?

If you make only the credit card minimum payment, you'll end up paying a large amount of interest before you pay off your balance. By paying every two weeks instead, you end up making additional payments, which can help lower the total amount of interest that you have to pay before your balance is completely paid off.

How long should I wait to apply for another credit card?

It's a good idea to wait at least six months between credit card applications to protect your credit score and avoid exceeding certain card issuers' restrictions. Several applications submitted within a short time frame could damage your credit score for a period of time.

Why do I keep getting denied for credit cards with good credit?

Common reasons for credit card denial despite good credit

They want to ensure that, at the very least, you can afford to make your minimum monthly payment. It is therefore possible for you to have a 700+ credit score but be denied a new credit card because your current credit is already high relative to your income.

How to build credit quickly?

9 ways to build credit fast
  1. Dispute credit report errors. ...
  2. Pay down your credit card balances. ...
  3. Become an authorized user. ...
  4. Deal with delinquent accounts. ...
  5. Open a credit card account. ...
  6. Take out a credit builder loan. ...
  7. Request a credit limit increase. ...
  8. Keep a mix of different account types.