The Ultimate Guide to Credit Card Approvals in 2025

Getting approved for credit cards in 2025 is not as simple as filling out an application. Banks have stricter rules, hidden approval criteria, and internal scoring models that can confuse even the most experienced cardholders. If you want to maximize your chances of approval and avoid wasted hard pulls, you need to understand how lenders operate. 

Why Approvals Are Getting Harder

Stricter rules: Chase’s 5/24 rule means if you’ve opened 5 or more accounts in the last 24 months, you’re automatically denied.

Amex’s 2/90 rule: You can only open 2 new Amex cards in 90 days.

Internal scoring models: Some banks, like Amex, use internal scoring beyond just your credit score.

Which Bureau Each Bank Pulls From

One of the most overlooked aspects of credit approvals is knowing which bureau a bank pulls. For example:

Amex: Often Experian

Capital One: Pulls all three bureaus

Bank of America: Typically Equifax

Smart Application Strategy

Start with the bureau where your report is the strongest.

Stack approvals on the same day to minimize inquiries.

Use pre-qualification tools (Amex, Discover, Capital One) before applying.

👉 Pro Tip: Instead of guessing, use the Master Lender List — it breaks down every bank, every card, and which bureau they pull, so you can plan your applications with confidence.

Download the Master Lender List today — your insider’s map to credit approvals in 2025.