This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
Following up on credit card applications is essential.
Personal credit cards can be the same and might require additional documentation, and I would know because I worked for a bank at one point for the credit cards team. We specifically created a user experience for users who were not initially approved but required additional supporting documentation to supplement their credit card applications.
Don’t you love seeing:
“Great news! You’re approved for the X Credit Card with a $X credit limit!”
Well, now and then, the case pans out differently, and all you get is a measly:
“Thank you for applying. We are reviewing your application and will contact you soon.”
On top of this message, if you call to learn the hold-up, the automated messaging system might say:
“We are reviewing your application. Please wait 7–10 business days, and we will inform you of our decision in writing.”
First off, these two phrases are the last statements anyone who knows about credit cards wants to hear:
7–10 business days
Writing
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These are like condemning and ostracizing words.
They frequently signify you’ve been:
D.E.N.I.E.D.
Before Giving Up And Thinking You’re A Failure
But wait, before you think you’re a loser and not good enough for that new credit card, try a few things first.
Learn about the credit card application process for the specific credit card you applied for; each company has its policies.
Check your email for any language revolving around requiring additional documentation. Get extra thorough with the documentation; provide more than necessary or every document that fits the bills so they have less reason to reject you.
Call the company to learn more about the intricate details of your application. Learn if you missed something.
Finally, call the credit card company and talk to a human (not a robot) on the phone.
My Experience
There was a time I applied for a business credit account and got the “we’re reviewing your application.”
It was later followed up with, “We need more documentation.”
Then, I never heard back from them.
So I called them to learn the status of my application, and they said,
“We’re reviewing your application; please wait 7–10 business days.”
And I thought to myself, wtf.
Before giving up, I decided to chat with a human.
He told me, “Oh sweet, I see here your documentation. Let me process it.” After waiting a minute, he told me I was approved.
WTF.
Lesson
Do your due diligence to learn more about your application before you assume you’re denied.
Sometimes, your information is simply sitting there waiting for you to follow up on.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.