What the Best Buy Credit Card Is and Who Can Get One
The Best Buy credit card is a store card issued by Citi that you can use to make purchases at Best Buy and Best Buy's website. It comes in two versions: the regular card and the Best Buy Visa card, which you can also use at other retailers. Both cards offer rewards on purchases, but the rewards structure and where you can use the card differ between them.
You can request the card if you are at least 18 years old and a U.S. resident with a valid Social Security number. The card issuer will check your credit history when you submit your request, so your credit score and payment history matter. You do not need to be a Best Buy member or have shopped there before.
Key Takeaways
- You can request the Best Buy card online, in a store, or by phone, and you will get a decision within minutes to a few business days.
- The card earns rewards points on purchases, but the rate depends on whether you choose the regular store card or the Visa version.
- You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, income information, and a valid ID to complete your request.
- If your request is denied, you can ask why and may be able to request again after addressing the reason.
How to Request the Card Online
Go to bestbuy.com and look for the credit card link, usually found in the footer or under "Services." Click on the card you want — the regular Best Buy card or the Best Buy Visa card — and select "Request Now" or a similar button. You will be taken to a Citi form.
Fill in your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, and phone number. Enter your annual income (you can estimate if you are unsure). Select your employment status from the dropdown menu. Provide your email address and create a password if you do not already have a Citi account.
Review the terms and conditions, then submit. Citi will tell you when ready or within a few business days whether your request was approved, denied, or pending review. If approved, your card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can set up it online or by phone once it arrives.
Requesting the Card in a Best Buy Store
Walk into any Best Buy location and ask a staff member where to request the credit card. They will either hand you a paper form or direct you to a kiosk. Fill out the form with your name, address, Social Security number, date of birth, and income information. A store associate may help you submit it on a tablet or computer.
You will receive a decision on the spot or within a few business days. If approved in-store, you may be able to pick up a temporary card number to use right away, though the physical card will still arrive by mail. If the decision is pending, Citi will contact you by phone or email.
Requesting by Phone
Call the Best Buy credit card customer service number, which is printed on the Best Buy website or on any Best Buy receipt. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and income information ready. A representative will walk you through the request process over the phone.
The representative will ask the same questions as the online form: your full name, address, employment status, and annual income. They will submit your request and may tell you the decision right away or let you know when to expect a call or email. If approved, your card will be mailed to the address you provided.
What Happens After You Request the Card
Citi will perform a hard inquiry on your credit report, which may lower your credit score slightly. This inquiry stays on your report for about two years but stops affecting your score after a few months. If you are approved, your card becomes active as soon as it arrives and you set up it.
Once active, you can use the card at Best Buy in-store and online. The regular Best Buy card works only at Best Buy. The Best Buy Visa card works anywhere Visa is accepted. You will receive a statement each month showing your balance, minimum payment due, and rewards earned. You can pay online, by phone, or by mail.
If your request is denied, Citi will send you a letter explaining the reason — usually a low credit score, insufficient income, or too many recent credit inquiries. You can request the card again after addressing the issue, though waiting a few months between requests is often more successful.
Rewards and Benefits of the Card
The Best Buy card earns points on every purchase. The exact rate depends on which card you have. Points can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases or sometimes for gift cards. The card also offers special financing offers during promotional periods, such as 12 months interest-free on purchases over a certain amount.
Cardholders sometimes receive exclusive sales, early access to deals, or bonus points during special events. These offers are sent by email or shown in your online account. The card does not charge an annual fee, so you can keep it open even if you do not use it regularly.
Documents and Information You Will Need
Have the following ready before you start your request:
- Your Social Security number
- Your date of birth
- Your current mailing address
- Your annual income (an estimate is fine)
- Your employment status (employed, self-employed, retired, student, etc.)
- A valid phone number and email address
- A government-issued ID if requesting in-store
You do not need to bring a Best Buy receipt, membership card, or proof of income. The issuer will verify your information using the details you provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a decision on my request?
You may receive a decision when ready online or in-store. If not, Citi will contact you by phone or email within a few business days. Once approved, the physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
What credit score do I need to request the Best Buy card?
Citi does not publish a minimum credit score. Generally, a score of 600 or higher increases your chances, but people with lower scores have been approved. Your income, employment history, and existing debt also matter.
Can I use the card before it arrives in the mail?
If you request in-store, you may receive a temporary card number to use right away. If you request online or by phone, you typically must wait for the physical card to arrive and be activated.
What is the difference between the regular Best Buy card and the Best Buy Visa card?
The regular card works only at Best Buy. The Visa version works at any store that accepts Visa. The rewards rates and promotional offers may differ between them. Review both options before requesting to see which fits your spending.
What if my request is denied?
Citi will send a letter explaining why. Common reasons are low credit score, insufficient income, or too many recent credit inquiries. You can request again after a few months, especially if you have improved your credit score or increased your income.