Age and Income

• Your age and income are the first items the credit card company will review. You must be over 18 to apply for any credit card. Some credit cards will have basic income requirements, while others require you to have a high income. In part, your income is to prove that you can afford to have and use a credit card, and the company will also determine your credit limit.
  
  

Credit Score

• Your credit score will also impact your chances of getting a credit card. If you have filed for bankruptcy recently, your odds are significantly diminished because companies will be wary of your ability to manage your finances. The better your score is, say, above 670, the easier it will be for you to get a credit card because you have a proven history of on-time payments and manageable debt, if any, and you will get a lower interest rate.
  
  

Co-Sign

• If you have a troubled credit history or not enough of one, consider asking a close friend or relative to co-sign with you on the account. This person should have a good credit history. This person should trust you because they are taking on a risk. If you are unable to pay your debts, the friend or relative will have to pay your debts. This allows you to build up your credit history, and one day be able to be the sole owner of the account.
  
  

Improve Chances

• If you are having trouble getting approved for a credit card, take some time to build up your case. If you have a history of making late payments, start paying everything on time. Check your credit history to ensure everything is accurate. These two actions can improve your credit score. If you are still having trouble, go to your bank for a card---they may give you preference because you are an existing customer---and you can build your credit through them.