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Instant Credit Cards: A Thing of the Past

In the early days of online credit card applications, many companies literally offered instant credit cards that could be used as soon as a person was approved. Rampant fraud put an end to those offers, although many credit card companies continued to provide instant approval decisions. However, these offers are essentially a thing of the past. Today, many credit cards will still provide approval decisions in 24 hours or less. But, since it takes a few days for any credit card to arrive in the mail, choosing the best credit card is more important than finding an instant credit card.

Before highlighting the most important elements of a good credit card, let's look at how long it takes to get a credit card. In the best case scenario, the fastest you can expect to receive a credit card in the mail is at least five business days. This is true for many credit card companies in an ideal situation. On occasion, various factors can delay approval decisions (and the physical delivery of your credit card) for up to 30 days.

Essentially, the days of the instant credit card are gone. And in many ways, this is a good thing. Sure, instant access to credit can be a lifesaver. But in the long run, getting the best credit card can save you a lot of money in interest and fees.

Thus, instead of limiting your search to instant credit cards, seek out cards that offer 0% introductory rates and low long term interest rates. These credit cards will provide you the best value in the long run and arrive in your mailbox as soon as your application can be processed and shipped.