​The proliferation of credit cards can be attributed to a lot of things, as a matter of fact; most Americans own more than one credit card. Its convenience of use, fast and easy application has produced more credit card owners in our society compared to the previous generation. 

Having websites that offer online applications for credit cards have also been great swaying factors in making more Americans think about getting a credit card. And why not? This innovation in credit card marketing has made the process much easier. Now you don’t even have to leave the comforts of your own home. All you need to have is a computer, an internet connection, your personal information (like your credit rating or credit score, which incidentally you can get online as well) and a little time and effort to find the website which could allow a safe and easy method on how to apply for a credit card online.

The first step is to find a credible website which you can trust your personal information. What you can do is to try looking one from a search engine such as MSN, Google or Yahoo. Make sure that their site features secure SSL Technology protection. You can also try to call them and asking them about their security and their track record. Then if you are convinced that they are a legitimate site, you can try to look at what they are offering. 

Browse their website and make sure that they offer all of the major credit cards available today. Search for the type of credit card that you want, if you're not sure what suits you, try to read some of the articles and descriptions the site has for them, good credit card application websites have these feature to help potential clients. 

The second step is to compare all the cards that are available in the site. With so much competition nowadays between these credit card companies, each and every one of them tries to outdo each other by offering lower interest rates and with lots of other credit card offers. 

Many of these offers include zero percent APR's, low fixed interest rates, cash backs, zero liability in unauthorized purchases, no annual fees, low interest rates for balance transfers, and lots of others. Make sure you understand what the promos are about and see if they last for a definite or a variable time frame. Sometimes the lowest interest rates may not be the best idea, they may only last for 6 months then the rates may go soaring. 

The last step is the actual application. After ensuring that you are satisfied with what you have learned in steps 1 and 2, you can proceed to step three, which is the easiest part. All you need to do is to provide all the information that’s being asked for. 

This will include your name, your address, your income, your employment and business, your credit rating, whether you have been bankrupt and a lot of others. Upon completion, all you have to do is submit the application, which is done automatically on the site.  Then all you need to do is to wait. 

Although the application is very easy, the approval is the hard part. Not everyone gets easily approved, especially for the great deals. People with great credit reports are usually the ones who gets approved easily and in no time at all because the establishments or credit card companies know that they are good payers.

If you are concerned about identify theft or regular credit monitoring, you likely understand the importance of obtaining a copy of your free personal credit report. Neglecting to monitor your credit may prove damaging in the long run. It does not take long for a person to access your information and begin opening accounts in your name. For this matter, consumers are advised to obtain a 3 in 1 credit report every six months.

Benefits of a Credit Report

Aside from protecting yourself against identify theft, credit monitoring is essential for improving your credit rating. Although lenders use credit reports to judge a loan applicant's creditworthiness, credit reports are also beneficial because they keep us informed of our credit standing. Thus, we can know our odds of obtaining a home loan, auto loan, etc.

How to Get a Copy of Your Credit Report

Getting a copy of your 3 in 1 credit report is simple. Furthermore, because reports are viewable online, there is no valid reason not to check your report at least once annually. Every city across the country has a local credit agency which will issue copies of your credit report from all three bureaus. However, if you prefer the convenience of the internet, there are various websites offering 3 in 1 reports for a small fee.

To obtain a copy of your personal reports, you must provide information such as name, address, social security number, etc. Once your information is verified, credit reports are either sent via email, or viewable from the website. Your entire credit history will show before your eyes.

​We recommend using MyscoreIQ to view your credit report from the 3 credit bureaus. It's $1 for a 7 day trial!

Why Obtain Copies of a 3 in 1 Credit Report?

If you are hoping to improve your credit rating, obtaining a 3 in 1 credit report should be the first step you take. This way, you know exactly what needs improving. The report will list all creditors, current balances, and account standing. Moreover, you should review your report for errors. If inaccuracies are present, contact the bureau and discuss clarifying the matter.

In addition, credit reports include a credit score. This 3 digit number carries a lot of weight. Low scores indicate bad credit, whereas high scores equal good credit. If the goal is to improve credit score, it may be wise to improve in certain areas. For example, avoid late or skipped payments, reduce debt to income ratio, settle collection accounts, and limit your number of credit inquiries.