how the process works for an Amazon credit card online
You can explore for an Amazon credit card directly through Amazon's website or through the card issuer's site. The process takes about 10 minutes and you'll get a decision within seconds in most cases. You'll need your Social Security number, current income, and basic personal information like your address and date of birth.
Amazon offers two main credit cards: the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card (for Prime members) and the Amazon Rewards Visa Card (for non-members). Both are issued by Chase. You can start an process on Amazon.com by going to the credit cards section, or you can go directly to Chase's website and search for Amazon credit cards.
Key Takeaways
- Amazon credit card applications are completed entirely online and take about 10 minutes from start to finish.
- You will need your Social Security number, current address, employment information, and annual income to complete the process.
- Most decisions come back when ready, though some applications may be reviewed manually and take a few business days.
- If you are approved, you can use your card number when ready for online purchases, even before the physical card arrives in the mail.
- The Prime Rewards card requires an active Prime membership, while the standard Amazon Rewards card does not.
What information you need before you start
Gather these documents and details before opening the process. Having everything ready means you won't have to stop midway through.
You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current mailing address. Have your phone number and email address handy. You'll also need to provide your employment status (employed, self-employed, retired, or student) and your annual household income. If you are self-employed, you may be asked about your business type.
If you have moved recently, have your previous address available — the process may ask for it. You do not need to have a pre-approval offer to explore, though if you received one in the mail or email, having that offer number can speed up the process.
Step-by-step: explore through Amazon.com
Log into your Amazon account or create one if you don't have one yet. Go to Amazon.com and search for "Amazon credit cards" or navigate to the credit cards section under Your Account.
You will see the two card options with their rewards rates and annual fees. Click "explore Now" on the card you want. You'll be taken to Chase's process page, which opens in a new window.
Enter your personal information exactly as it appears on your government ID. Fill in your employment details and annual income. Review the information for accuracy — errors can slow down approval or cause a decline.
Read the terms and conditions, then click the button to submit your process. You will see a decision screen when ready in most cases. If your process is approved, you'll receive a confirmation number and instructions for setting up your online account with Chase.
Step-by-step: explore through Chase's website
Go to Chase.com and search for "Amazon credit card" in their card offerings. You will see both the Prime Rewards and standard Rewards cards listed.
Click on the card you want and select "explore Now." You'll be taken to Chase's process form. The questions and process are identical to explore through Amazon.com — the only difference is where you start.
Complete all fields with accurate information. Chase pulls your credit report during this process, so the information must match what the credit bureaus have on file. Submit the process and wait for your decision.
What happens after you submit your process
Most applicants receive an when ready decision. The screen will tell you whether you are approved, denied, or pending further review. If you are approved, you'll get a confirmation number and can set up your Chase online account right away.
Some applications go to manual review, which takes one to three business days. Chase will contact you by phone or email if they need more information. Keep your phone nearby for the next few days in case they call.
If you are approved, you can use your card number for online purchases when ready, even if the physical card hasn't arrived yet. You can find your card number in your Chase account online. The physical card usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
Using your card before it arrives
Once you are approved and your account is set up, log into your Chase account and look for your card details. Your card number, expiration date, and CVV will be visible there. You can use these to make purchases online right away.
You cannot use the card in stores until the physical card arrives and you set up it. When the card comes in the mail, follow the set up instructions included in the envelope, or set up it through your Chase account online.
What to do if your process is denied or pending
If you are denied, the screen will explain the reason — usually related to credit history, income, or recent negative marks on your credit report. You can reapply after addressing the issue, though waiting at least three to six months gives your credit profile time to improve.
If your process is pending, Chase will contact you within a few business days. They may ask for proof of income, employment verification, or clarification on information you provided. Respond as quickly as you can — the sooner you provide what they ask for, the sooner they can make a decision.
You can also call Chase directly at the number on their website to check the status of a pending process. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a Prime member to explore?
No. The standard Amazon Rewards Visa Card is open to anyone. The Prime Rewards card requires an active Prime membership, but you can upgrade to that card later if you join Prime.
Will explore hurt my credit score?
Chase will perform a hard inquiry on your credit report, which may lower your score by a few points temporarily. Multiple applications within a short time period have a larger impact, so space out applications if you are explore for several cards.
Can I use my card number before the physical card arrives?
Yes. Once you are approved and your account is set up, you can find your card number in your Chase account and use it for online purchases when ready. You'll need the physical card to make in-store purchases.
What if I was pre-approved but my process was denied?
Pre-approval offers are not guarantees. Your actual credit report, recent inquiries, or changes in your financial situation since the offer was sent can result in a denial. You can reapply after waiting a few months and improving your credit profile.
How long does approval take?
Most decisions come back when ready. Some applications go to manual review and take one to three business days. Chase will contact you if they need additional information before making a final decision.