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Is the Amazon Credit Card Hard to Get? A Comprehensive Guide

In short, the difficulty in getting an Amazon credit card depends entirely on the specific card you’re after and your individual credit profile. Some Amazon-branded cards are relatively easy to obtain with fair credit, while others demand excellent creditworthiness.

Understanding the Amazon Credit Card Landscape

Before diving into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand that “the Amazon credit card” isn’t a single entity. Amazon offers several co-branded credit cards through partnerships with different financial institutions, primarily Chase Bank and Synchrony Bank. Each card caters to a different segment of consumers with varying credit needs and spending habits. The approval criteria, therefore, are not uniform. Let’s break down the major players:

Chase Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card

This card is arguably the most popular and sought-after among Amazon enthusiasts. It offers significant rewards, particularly for Amazon Prime members. The allure of 5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market makes it a highly desirable card. However, this also means it’s one of the harder Amazon cards to get.

Chase Amazon Rewards Visa Signature Card

Similar to the Prime version, but aimed at those without a Prime membership. It offers a slightly lower rewards rate at Amazon (3% back) but still requires a decent credit score. Although seemingly easier to obtain than the Prime version, the required creditworthiness is still considerably high.

Amazon Prime Store Card and Amazon Store Card (Synchrony Bank)

These cards are often considered the “easier” options. Issued by Synchrony Bank, they are store cards usable only at Amazon.com. They often have more lenient approval criteria, making them accessible to individuals with fair or average credit scores. However, they also come with limitations, the biggest one being its limited usability to just the Amazon Store.

The Credit Score Conundrum: What You Need to Know

Your credit score is the single most important factor in determining your approval odds for any credit card, including Amazon cards. Here’s a breakdown of general credit score ranges and their typical implications:

Excellent Credit (750+): You’ll likely qualify for any of the Amazon cards, including the Chase Prime and non-Prime versions. You’ll also likely receive the best interest rates and credit limits.
Good Credit (690-749): You have a strong chance of getting approved for the Chase Amazon cards, although you might not receive the highest credit limit.
Fair Credit (630-689): This is where things get tricky. You might be able to get the Amazon Store Card or Amazon Prime Store Card issued by Synchrony Bank. Approval for the Chase cards is less likely, but not impossible.
Poor Credit (Below 630): Your chances of approval for any Amazon credit card are slim. It’s best to focus on improving your credit score before applying. Consider secured credit cards or becoming an authorized user on someone else’s account to build credit.

Beyond the Score: Other Factors at Play

While your credit score is paramount, issuers also consider other factors:

Credit History: A longer, more established credit history demonstrates responsible credit management.
Income: Your income needs to be sufficient to cover your debt obligations. While a very low income will be a red flag, a stable and dependable income history can strengthen the application.
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): This measures your monthly debt payments against your gross monthly income. A lower DTI is favorable.
Recent Credit Activity: Applying for multiple credit cards in a short period can negatively impact your chances.
Payment History: Consistent on-time payments are crucial. Late payments are major red flags.

Strategies to Improve Your Approval Odds

If you’re not confident about your approval chances, here are some proactive steps:

Check Your Credit Report: Obtain a free copy of your credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com and review it for errors. Dispute any inaccuracies.
Pay Down Debt: Reducing your debt balances lowers your DTI and improves your credit utilization ratio (the amount of credit you’re using compared to your total available credit).
Make Timely Payments: Ensure you’re paying all your bills on time, every time.
Become an Amazon Prime Member (Potentially): If you’re applying for the Chase Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card, being a Prime member is a prerequisite. While it doesn’t directly guarantee approval, it’s a necessary condition.
Start with a Store Card: If you’re struggling to get approved for a traditional credit card, consider applying for the Amazon Store Card from Synchrony Bank to establish a relationship with Amazon and build credit.
Pre-Approval Tools: Use pre-approval tools offered by Chase and Synchrony Bank to check your approval odds without affecting your credit score.

Weighing the Benefits and Requirements

Before applying for any credit card, carefully consider whether the benefits outweigh the requirements. If you’re a frequent Amazon shopper, the rewards offered by the Amazon credit cards can be substantial. However, if you’re carrying a balance from month to month, the interest charges can quickly negate those rewards. Remember that responsible credit card use is key.

Amazon Credit Cards and Credit Building

The Amazon Store Card issued by Synchrony can be a useful tool for building or rebuilding credit. But its high APR makes carrying a balance very expensive. It’s crucial to pay your bill in full each month. The Chase Amazon cards are less suitable for credit building because they require a good to excellent credit score to start.

Amazon Credit Cards vs Alternatives

Before settling on an Amazon credit card, it’s worth comparing it with other rewards cards. Several cashback cards offer competitive rewards rates and broader spending categories. Consider cards that offer bonus rewards on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, or dining.

FAQs: Delving Deeper into Amazon Credit Card Approval

Here are some frequently asked questions to address specific concerns and provide further clarity:

1. What’s the minimum credit score needed for the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card?

Generally, you’ll need a good to excellent credit score (690+) to be approved for this card. However, even with a score in that range, approval isn’t guaranteed. Factors like credit history, income, and debt-to-income ratio also play a role.

2. Can I get an Amazon credit card with a limited credit history?

It’s challenging to get approved for the Chase Amazon cards with a limited credit history. The Amazon Store Card from Synchrony Bank might be a better option, as it often has more lenient requirements.

3. What if I’m denied for an Amazon credit card?

If denied, you’ll receive a letter explaining the reasons for the denial. Focus on addressing those reasons (e.g., improving your credit score, paying down debt) before reapplying.

4. Does applying for an Amazon credit card affect my credit score?

Yes, a credit card application results in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can slightly lower your score, but the impact is usually temporary.

5. How long does it take to get approved for an Amazon credit card?

Approval can be instant, especially for the Amazon Store Card. However, it can sometimes take a few days or even weeks for the issuer to review your application.

6. Can I reapply for an Amazon credit card after being denied?

Yes, but it’s advisable to wait a few months and address the reasons for the initial denial before reapplying.

7. Is the Amazon Prime Store Card worth it if I don’t have excellent credit?

If you shop frequently at Amazon and struggle to get approved for other cards, the Amazon Prime Store Card can be a good way to earn rewards and build credit, but make sure to pay your bills in full each month.

8. Does Amazon offer any other credit card options?

As of now, Amazon primarily offers the cards mentioned above. However, they may introduce new card offerings in the future.

9. What are the alternatives if I can’t get an Amazon credit card?

Consider secured credit cards, other cashback rewards cards, or becoming an authorized user on someone else’s credit card account.

10. How can I check my credit score for free?

Several websites offer free credit score monitoring services, such as Credit Karma, Credit Sesame, and Experian.

11. Is it better to apply for the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card or the Amazon Rewards Visa Signature Card if I’m not a Prime member?

If you’re not a Prime member, applying for the Amazon Rewards Visa Signature Card is the better option. You won’t be eligible for the Prime version without a Prime membership.

12. What’s the difference between the Amazon Prime Store Card and the Amazon Store Card?

The Amazon Prime Store Card is available only to Amazon Prime members and typically offers a slightly better promotional financing option. The Amazon Store Card is available to anyone, regardless of Prime membership.

Conclusion

Navigating the Amazon credit card landscape requires understanding the different card options and your own creditworthiness. By carefully assessing your credit score, income, and debt, you can make an informed decision and increase your chances of getting approved for the card that best suits your needs. Remember that responsible credit card use is essential for maximizing the benefits and avoiding costly interest charges.