How to Apply for a Bank Credit Card
Applying for a bank card isn't that difficult if you have a bank account. In most cases, if you apply for a checking account with your bank, a bank card comes with it so that you can access your money anytime.
- Sign up for a checking account with a bank of your choice. In order to do this, most banks and credit unions require that you put a minimum amount of money in the account.
- Request a bank card be attached to your account. Some banks will require that you have your photo taken for security purposes. Have your picture taken and sign the piece of paper that gives the bank consent to send you the bank card through the mail.
- Choose a design. Most all banks will allow you to choose a design for your bank card. Some possible designs include Hello Kitty, Starry Nights, and animals.
- Once you have made your selection, sign the paper work that says you either decline or accept overdraft protection. This is important as the federal government will not allow banks to overdraft your account unless you sign the waver that said it is allowable.
- Wait for your bank card to arrive in the mail. This should take seven to 10 business days from the time you applied for it. Some banks will give you a temporary card to use while other banks will make you withdraw money from a teller.
- Go online to the website provided or the phone number on the back of the card and activate it so that you can use it. Be sure to set a personal identification number (PIN) for yourself.