Are you eyeing that Walmart credit card, wondering if it’s the right fit for you?
The good news is that you can now take the preapproved out of the application process.
Thanks to Walmart’s partner bank, Capital One, you can explore the possibility of preapproval or prequalification for the Walmart credit card.Â
Let’s dive into how this works and what you need to know.
About Walmart
Walmart stores are well-known throughout the world for their low prices and diverse product offerings.
With over 10,500 stores and clubs in 24 countries, you’ve probably visited one of the superstores at least once.
For those who shop at the big-box retailer on a regular basis, the Capital One® Walmart Rewards® Card* will help you save even more money.
But how can you know if your credit score is sufficient to have your application accepted? Keep reading to find out.
What is Preapproval?
Preapproval is a tool into your chances of getting approved for a credit card before you officially apply. It’s like testing the waters before taking the plunge.
On Walmart’s credit card preapproval page, you’ll spot this message:
“Find out if you’re pre-approved for a Walmart credit card with no impact to your credit score.”
It’s a reassuring statement, but what does it truly mean?
In a nutshell, preapprovals are a tool used by credit card issuers to assess the likelihood of your approval when you decide to fill out a full card application.
It is like a preliminary nod, saying, “You’re looking good so far.” However, here’s the catch: even with a preapproval, approval is not guaranteed once you submit a full application.
In addition, when you utilize Walmart’s credit card preapproval tool, you will provide some basic information.
Expect questions about your Social Security number, income, employment status, and monthly housing costs.
Now, here’s the clever bit: Capital One performs a “soft pull” or “soft inquiry” on your credit report.
This means they check your credit score without leaving a mark on it. It is like peeking through the window without stepping inside.
Based on your credit score and the information you’ve shared; Capital One will give you an idea of your likelihood of approval.
However, remember that this preapproval is not set in stone. When you complete a full application, Capital One will conduct a more thorough “hard pull” or “hard inquiry.” This involves a deeper dive into your credit report, focusing on specific details.
During this closer examination, Capital One might consider factors like your debt-to-income ratio, the length of your credit history, the number of recent credit card applications, and even your payment history if you already have other Capital One credit cards.
Now, don’t let this scare you. Most individuals who receive a preapproval through the online tool typically get approved for the Walmart credit card.
Still, it’s essential to remember that no credit card is a guaranteed bet until you receive official approval.
Type of Walmart Credit Card
There are two types of Walmart credit cards: Walmart Rewards Card and Walmart Rewards MasterCard.
When you use the preapproval tool, you get the following message from Capital One:
“We will see if you are pre-approved for the Capital One Walmart Rewards® MasterCard®. If we are unable to pre-approve you for this card, we will automatically consider you for the Walmart Rewards® Card.”
Here’s the breakdown:
The Capital One Walmart Rewards® MasterCard®: This card is versatile. You can use it not only at Walmart but also at any location that accepts MasterCard credit cards. It offers more flexibility.
Walmart Rewards Card (Walmart Store Card): This card, commonly known as the Walmart Store Card, is more restricted. It can only be used at Walmart. Additionally, it may come with a higher APR and different rates and fees compared to the MasterCard version.
When you submit a full application for the Walmart credit card, you’ll initially be considered for the Walmart MasterCard.
If, for any reason, you don’t meet the criteria for this card, you will automatically be evaluated for the Walmart-only Walmart Store Card based on the same application.
Rest assured, your credit will only receive one hard inquiry, even if Capital One reviews you for both cards.
It is important to note that a hard inquiry might cause a slight dip in your credit score, even if you were previously preapproved.
Conclusion
So there you have it—a breakdown of the Walmart credit card preapproval process.
It’s a handy tool to gauge your chances of approval before making the final decision.
We wish you the best of luck on your journey to securing the Walmart credit card.
It could be your ticket to unlocking exclusive benefits and rewards while shopping at Walmart and beyond. Happy shopping!
Reference
Frequently Asked Question
Can you prequalify for a Walmart credit card?
Walmart Credit Card pre-approval is available because Capital One mails pre-approved offers to consumers who appear to match the approval criteria. A pre-approved offer indicates that you have a good probability of being accepted if you apply, but it does not guarantee anything.
What credit score do you need for Walmart credit card?
The Walmart Credit Card has a credit score minimum of 640 or higher, which means that those with fair credit or better may be approved for this card. For approval, the Walmart® Store Card also requires at least fair credit.
What bank approves Walmart credit card?
Capital One Bank
Capital One bank issues the Walmart Credit Card. Since October 2019, Capital One has been the Walmart Credit Card issuer. The Walmart® Store Card is also issued by the same bank.