What is the minimum credit score for credit card approval in Canada?
By Arthur Dubois | 11 Jun 2023 |
When it comes to getting approved for a credit card, Canadians often wonder what credit score they need to qualify. Don’t expect a straightforward answer to this question since there is no one-size-fits-all answer. However, you should know a few things about credit scores and how they relate to credit card approvals in Canada.
Factors Affecting Credit Card Approval
When sending in your credit card application, several factors other than your credit score can impact your chances of approval. Credit card issuers typically look at a variety of factors when considering applicants. These include income, employment status, debt-to-income ratio, credit history and payment habits.
Income and Employment Status
Income and employment status indicate your ability to repay credit card debt. Credit card issuers want to see that you have a stable source of income and a steady job. Typically, the higher your income and the more steady your employment, the better your chances of credit card approval. If you have a low income or erratic work, you may need to provide additional documentation or collateral.
Additionally, credit card issuers may consider your job title and industry. For example, if you work in a high-paying industry, such as finance or law, you may get approved for a credit card with a higher credit limit.
Debt-to-Income Ratio
The debt-to-income ratio measures the amount of debt a person carries compared to their income. This important factor ranks high when lenders assess creditworthiness. A higher ratio can indicate that someone may have difficulty repaying additional debts, making them a higher risk for lenders.
Ideally, your debt-to-income ratio should stand below 30 percent. If you have a high debt-to-income ratio, you may need to pay down your debts. Otherwise, you can increase your income to improve your chances of being approved for a credit card.
Credit History and Payment Habits
Credit history and payment habits provide insight into how you’ve managed credit in the past. Lenders will review whether you’ve made timely payments and how much credit you’ve used compared to your available credit limit.
If you have a history of making late payments or defaulting on loans, it can negatively impact your credit score. In turn, this makes it more difficult to get approved for a credit card. On the other hand, if you have better habits, you may get approved for a credit card with a lower interest rate and higher credit limit.
Of course, credit card issuers may also consider other factors that we listed earlier. By responding to these factors, you can improve your chances for approval for a credit card for your financial needs.
Minimum Credit Score Requirements for Different Credit Cards
While a single credit score requirement won’t get you a credit card in Canada, knowledge equals power. By understanding the different types of cards and their minimum credit score requirements, you make more informed decisions.
Standard Credit Cards
Standard credit cards typically require a minimum credit score of 650 to 680. These cards have moderate interest rates and may come with rewards or cash back programs. They allow those with a solid credit history to earn rewards on their purchases without paying high annual fees.
Some standard credit cards may also offer perks, such as travel insurance, extended warranties and purchase protection. These benefits can provide added value and peace of mind when using your credit card for everyday purchases.
Premium Credit Cards
Premium credit cards come with an annual fee and provide more rewards than other cards. Typically, they require a minimum credit score of 699 to 760. These cards offer rewards or points for purchases that can be redeemed for travel, merchandise or statement credits. They often come with higher annual fees than standard cards, but their rewards can offset these costs if used wisely.
Secured credit card
Some rewards credit cards may also offer additional benefits such as free airport lounge access, concierge services and travel insurance. These perks can make traveling more comfortable and convenient.
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Secured Credit Cards
Secured credit cards require a refundable deposit as collateral. Ultimately, they act as a good option for those with bad credit or no credit history. They have no minimum credit score required.
Using a secured credit card responsibly can help build or rebuild credit over time. Some may offer an upgrade to an unsecured credit card after a certain period of time and consistent on-time payments.
Secured credit card
Prepaid Credit Cards
Prepaid credit cards require an upfront load of funds. Therefore, they make an ideal choice for those wanting to control spending, avoid debt or who lack a bank account. Companies don’t require a credit check or minimum credit score for a prepaid credit card.
Using prepaid credit cards responsibly can help manage your budget and spending habits effectively. Some prepaid credit cards also offer benefits like cash back, rewards or the ability to build savings over time. They do not, however, contribute to your credit history or credit score improvement or report to credit-reporting agencies. This happens because they do not involve borrowing money or making regular payments, like a secured or unsecured credit card.
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Student Credit Cards
Student credit cards have lower credit score requirements, often around 600. These cards may offer higher reward rates for purchases that align with student expenses, like textbooks and school supplies.
Student credit cards can be a good way to establish credit history and earn rewards while in school. However, it’s important to use them responsibly and not accumulate too much debt while still in college.
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Understanding Credit Scores in Canada
Credit scores can range from 300 to 900 in Canada, with higher scores indicating better credit track records. A credit score’s number represents an individual’s creditworthiness, based on their credit history. Two major credit bureaus, Equifax and TransUnion, calculate credit scores in Canada.
Having a good credit score matters for a variety of reasons. It can impact your ability to get approved for loans, credit cards and even apartments or rental properties. A good credit score can also lead to lower interest rates and better terms on loans and credit cards.
How Credit Scores are Calculated
Credit bureaus calculate your score based on several factors, including:
- payment history
- length of credit history
- types of credit
- new credit opened
- credit utilization
Payment history makes up the largest portion of a credit score, accounting for 35 percent. Meanwhile, total debt owed accounts for 30 percent. This means that making payments on time and keeping your debt levels low matter most for maintaining a good credit score.
The types of credit you have also affect your credit score by 15 percent. Having a diverse mix, such as credit cards, loans and a mortgage, can show lenders that you are responsible. In short, you prove you can handle different types of debt.
Length of credit history also impacts your credit score by 10 percent. The longer you have had credit, the more information lenders have to assess your creditworthiness. This is why you want to start building credit early, even if you only have a small credit limit.
Opening new credit can send a red flag to lenders and may lower your credit score temporarily. Keep this in mind if you try to open several new accounts at once. This factor weighs on your score by a further 10 percent.
Credit Score Ranges and their Meanings
According to Equifax, credit scores in Canada can break down into five categories:
- Excellent: 760-900
- Very good: 725-759
- Good: 660-724
- Fair: 560-659
- Poor: 300-599
Generally speaking, the higher your credit score, the better your chances of being approved for a credit card. However, each lender has their own criteria for approving credit, so a good credit score does not guarantee approval. If you wonder what your credit score is, there are many ways to get your credit score for free in Canada.
If you have a bad credit score, you can take steps to improve it. This may include paying off outstanding debts, making timely payments and avoiding opening new credit accounts.
Overall, understanding credit scores and how they are calculated helps you manage your finances and build a strong financial future.
Tips for Improving Your Credit Score
If your credit score falls short, you can do several things to improve it. Having a good credit score affects your ability to get a loan, rent an apartment and even get a job. Follow these few tips to beef up your credibility:
Paying Bills on Time
Payment history contributes the most to your credit score, so pay your bills on time. Late payments can negatively impact your credit score and can stay on your credit report for up to seven years. If you can’t make a payment, reach out to your creditor to discuss a payment plan or deferral.
Reducing Credit Utilization
Credit utilization reflects the amount of credit you’ve used compared to your credit limit. For example, if you have a credit limit of $5,000 and use $3,000, your ratio is 60 percent. To improve your credit score, aim to keep your credit utilization ratio below 30 percent. This shows lenders that you can manage your finances well.
Regularly Reviewing Your Credit Report
Checking your credit report regularly can help you ensure that all the information stays accurate. Your credit report contains information about your credit history, including your payment history, credit utilization, and any missed payments. If you notice any errors or mistakes, report them to the credit bureaus to correct them. This can help improve your credit score and prevent any negative impact on your credit in the future.
Minimum Credit Score For Credit Card Approval: The Bottom Line
The minimum credit score required for credit card approval in Canada varies depending on the type of credit card you seek. Naturally, having a good credit score can help you qualify for better credit card offers and lower interest rates. By understanding the factors that impact your credit score, you can implement good credit habits. Further, you can work towards improving your credit score and increasing your chances of getting approved for a credit card.
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