How Much Credit Do I Qualify For?

When you qualify for a credit card, your bank will determine your credit limit, based upon a number of factors detailed below.

Credit cards offer individuals greater financial flexibility and improved spending power, by providing access to a line of credit on an ongoing basis. The amount of flexibility will, of course, be determined by your credit limit, which is set by the bank issuing your credit card. Credit limits are regularly reviewed, and can be increased or decreased based upon these reviews.

In this article learn more about how credit limits work, and the factors determining how a credit limit is set. This will give you a better idea of how much credit will be extended to you if you qualify for a credit card. Also be sure to explore the range of credit cards available via the Plastiq site.

What is a credit limit?
A credit limit is the maximum amount of money that you have available on yourcredit card account. For example, if your credit card limit is R5,000, you can spend up to R5,000 on credit before you reach the limit set by your bank. When you repay the credit you’ve used, or a portion thereof, the amount you’ve settled will be available to you once again.

Thus, if you repay R2,000 of the R5,000 spent, you will have that R2,000 at your disposal once again. If you settle the full amount, you’ll again have R5,000 worth of credit available to you. This is known as a revolving line of credit.

How will the bank determine my credit limit?
When you qualify for a credit card, your bank will set a specific credit limit for that card. This credit limit is based upon your credit score, which reflects your creditworthiness,the financial risk you pose to the lender, as well as your affordability. Hence, the better your credit score, the more credit you’re likely to qualify for.

In order to work out your credit limit, the bank will require access to information pertaining to your income and your expenses. When you submit a credit card application, you’ll be required to include information relating to your current salary. You may also be asked to detail your monthly expenses.

Can I change my credit limit?
If you wish to reduce your credit limit, simply contact your bank and discuss your requirements with them. If, on the other hand, you wish to increase your credit limit, the bank will need to review your payment behaviour and affordability closely. Credit card holders who settle their balances promptly and maintain a good credit score may have their limits increased at the bank’s discretion, should they not be over-exposed already. By the same token, credit card users who practice irresponsible spending behaviour may have their limits reduced.

Contact your bank’s credit card division at any time to discuss your credit limit, or any other questions pertaining your credit card account.

Compare credit cards now and apply today to determine your credit limit.