When applying for a credit card, we often run into situations like application pending/under review/rejected. That can turn our excitement into anxiety in an instant, and we start asking ourselves what exactly is standing in the way of approval and why an instant approval is no longer in the cards. In fact, having your application reviewed is very common, and in many cases you can proactively contact the bank for reconsideration and get a faster answer. If your application was denied, calling for reconsideration can also be a great way to turn things around.

Today, let’s talk about an important credit card application technique: reconsideration.

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[10/15 Update] Updated the new Chase reconsider phone number. The previously well-known 0625 number has been discontinued. Thanks to reader tammy

What is recon (reconsideration)? What is the process like?

If your credit card application is not instantly approved, or unfortunately gets rejected, you can call the staff responsible for reviewing credit card applications and ask them to take another look at your application.

Process: call in — verify your identity — confirm the application details and answer questions — wait for the result

What is recon useful for?

Generally speaking, when a credit card application is pending for further review or denied, it usually falls into one of the following situations. Here is how recon can help in each case:

  • Your credit history/score is not strong enough: Recon gives you a chance to speak with the person reviewing your application, explain your ability to repay, and demonstrate your creditworthiness to gain the reviewer’s confidence.
  • Your application is incomplete/there is an issue with your address: Recon lets you quickly find out what documents or information are needed so you can provide them right away and speed up the process.
  • There are too many applications in the queue: Recon can get your application reviewed by an analyst right away, helping you get approved and receive the card sooner.
  • Your application is seen as a duplicate application: Recon allows you to clearly explain that you really do need these cards so the review can continue.

The main value of recon is usually the first case. For example, maybe one part of your credit profile looks weak—such as too many recent HPs/new accounts or a high balance ratio—which drags down your credit score and prevents instant approval. In that case, once you speak with the reviewer and confirm your creditworthiness, approval often becomes much more likely.

What kinds of questions are asked during recon, and how should you respond?

The main goal during recon is to show the analyst that you have a good reason to get this card and the ability to manage it responsibly. Once you approach it from that angle, answering the questions becomes much easier. Common situations and questions include:

  • Verifying your address, SSN, and other information
    • Provide all requested information as asked.
  • Why do you have so many recent HPs/new accounts?
    • I recently had some large upcoming expenses, so I applied for several credit cards.
    • Each card serves a different purpose, and each one is useful to me.
    • I have a good credit history, I pay on time every month, and I am fully capable of managing these credit cards responsibly.
  • Why are you applying for this card?
    • Explain why it is useful, list the card’s advantages, and ideally tie them to your own situation.
  • What are your payment habits like?
    • Just answer honestly based on your own situation. For example, you may pay your balance in full every month after the statement closes. If you have ever missed a payment, be sure to explain the circumstances and make clear that it will not happen again.
  • What is your job, salary, and rent?
    • Answer based on your actual situation; it is best not to exaggerate or misstate anything.
    • If you are a student, you can mention your approximate bank savings and any family support.
  • We have already given you enough credit. Can you move part of your credit line from another card, or close one of your cards?
    • Usually, if they offer to move credit from another card, that generally means you are effectively approved, so you can just accept it.
    • If opening this card requires closing another card from the same bank, you will need to decide for yourself whether it is worth it.
  • We still cannot approve your application
    • Repeat and emphasize your credit history and track record.
    • Ask whether you can move credit to open the card instead (see above).
    • Hang up and call the recon line again.

Recon phone numbers for each bank (from a DOC article)

  • AMEX: 877-399-3083
  • BofA: 888-593-6092, 866-865-7843
  • Barclays: 866-408-4064
  • Chase: 888-270-2127
  • Citi: 800-695-5171
  • Discover:888-676-3695
  • US Bank: 800-947-1444 , 800-685-7680

Things to keep in mind

  • Chase recon usually does not involve many questions. The analyst will review your credit report on their own, and you often get the result after listening to the hold music.
  • Barclays recon tends to involve more questions, so it is worth preparing carefully. If necessary, you may be able to get approved by moving credit.
  • Citi recon may ask you to mail in a letter; if that happens, there is usually not much you can do to speed it up.
  • Recon may involve an additional HP, so it is best to ask clearly first.

Summary

Recon is a very important skill in credit card applications. You may feel a little nervous the first time you call, but after doing it a few times, it becomes much easier. About one-third of the blogger’s credit cards were approved through recon. As long as you prepare well for common recon questions, your chances of getting approved are generally quite good.

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