Congratulations on having your credit card application approved! Your credit card will arrive soon. Before it arrives, there are just a few things you should do to be prepared before embarking on your financial journey.

Explore Your Online Account
Even without your credit card, you may still access your online dashboard for your credit card provider to access features such as automatic payment and viewing your credit line. You will want to check your account and payments frequently when you get your card to avoid fees. You can also make online payments towards your credit card which is more convenient than mailing a physical check. Becoming familiar with your online account now will save you from a headache later.

Wait for Your Credit Card to Arrive
Your credit card will take 7 to 14 days to arrive at the address you listed on your credit card application. If your card has not arrived in this time frame, check your application to make sure you have provided your correct address. You can also give your credit card provider a call to check if they have any delays on their end.

Activate Your Card When It Arrives
Activating your card is simple. Your credit card will have a removable label on it with a phone number to call. Call the listed number and you will speak with a representative or a voice machine. Follow their provided instructions and your credit card will be ready to use!

Now that you have your credit card, you should learn everything about using your card. The first thing to do will be to familiarize yourself with all of the terms and language that credit card providers will send you in financial documents such as your cardholder agreement.

In the next article, learn more about What to do if your Application is denied.

Lesson 7