When initially introduced, credit cards were considered more of a luxury item than a necessity. However, today, with digitalization changing the way everything functions, credit cards have emerged as a must-have. Payment modes are increasing by the dozen, but credit cards continue to hold their own owing to the ease and convenience they offer while making payments.
With many companies now offering credit cards, customers are spoilt for choice. It has also become effortless to fill out a credit card application online, and have your card delivered to you, without any hassles and straight from the comfort of your couch. Owing to the vast number of credit cards out there, it is also possible to get a free credit card that offers you a range of special offers while making purchases through it.
Read on to learn about how you can easily apply for a credit card in 6 easy steps.
- Visit the website of the issuing bank or institution, such as the Bajaj Finserv website, and navigate to the credit card section
- Tap the ‘Apply Now button, and fill the online application form. Also, check if you are pre-approved for a credit card.
- Browse through the various credit cards and their benefits. Make sure to assess the different features available with each, and their fee structures. Browsing through the options will allow you to assess your own requirements in line with what’s on offer, and you can easily make an informed decision on the card you need.
- Select the card that most aligns with your requirements, and which would work best for you.
- The website will prompt you to submit certain documents, which you will be required to upload onto the portal.
- Submit your credit card application online and wait for your application to be approved.
Documents Required:
While submitting your credit card application online, regardless of whether it is a free or a paid credit card, you will be asked to submit certain documents. Read on to learn about the documents you will need to keep ready for submission while uploading your credit card online application.
- Proof of Identity:
This could be either your passport, voter ID, Aadhaar card, PAN card, driving license, ration card, arms license, ID card of a freedom fighter, or a legally acceptable photo identity card signed by a Gazetted Officer.
- Proof of Address:
Some of these could be the same as your identity proof, such as the voter ID, passport, Aadhaar card, PAN card, driving license, and ration card. It could also be your lease/rent agreement, property documents, or utility bills generated in the last three months bearing your name.
- Proof of Income:
This is to demonstrate that you are duly drawing an income, which makes you eligible for availing of a credit card in the first place.
Using a Credit Card
Once you have availed of a credit card, it is important to use it responsibly. Since payments through the card are from a line of credit, it can get easy to spend more than you can afford to or even should. This is ideally a situation you should avoid. Read on below to learn more about using your best free credit card responsibly.
- Don’t miss payment deadlines:
A minimum amount is payable on your credit cards each month, and the due date is specified at the time of the statement being generated. It is essential that you make this minimum payment by the date specified or you could be charged a penalty.
- Keep track of expenditure:
Be careful about spending through the card and make sure to keep a careful tab on expenses made.
- Choose your credit card limit wisely:
While assessing the credit cards on offer, make sure to choose one that aligns well with your income and spending behavior in order to avoid trouble later.