What credit score is needed to qualify for the Southwest Premier Credit Card?

To excel in the points and miles arena, it’s essential to invest some time in understanding how credit scores function. Generally, scores in the mid-700s and higher are likely sufficient for approval on most cards, but a lower score doesn't automatically disqualify you from applying for new cards.

Your score may be lower due to various reasons, but it's important to remember that your credit report encompasses more than just the number at the bottom. Two individuals might both have a score of 600, yet one could have missed several credit card payments while the other is a young adult with just a few months of credit history; thus, those scores don’t hold the same implications.

There isn't a one-size-fits-all rule (such as having a score over X guarantees approval), but we can analyze public data to assess your likelihood of approval for a particular card. Let's examine the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card and identify the suggested score required for approval.

The details for the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card have been independently gathered by Dinogo. The information on this page has not been verified or supplied by the card issuer.

What credit score is required to qualify for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier card?

Chase does not clearly outline a specific recommended or minimum credit score. However, you typically need to have good or excellent credit to receive approval. We usually suggest aiming for a credit score of at least 670, though it is possible to be approved with a lower score.

If your credit score falls at the lower end of the spectrum but you wish to apply for the Southwest Premier card, one way to enhance your chances of approval is to establish a banking relationship with Chase. If they are your primary bank, applying for additional cards like the Chase Freedom Unlimited® to demonstrate your ability to pay bills punctually may increase Chase's trust in granting you a Southwest card.

Each application is evaluated individually, so Chase might approve you even with a lower credit score. It's important to keep in mind that your credit score is just one of several factors Chase will take into account.

What is the maximum number of cards I can have open?

Like most Chase cards, the Southwest Premier card adheres to Chase's 5/24 rule. This means that if you've opened five or more personal credit cards (with any issuer) in the last 24 months, your application will be automatically denied.

This rule is non-negotiable, even if you maintain an impeccable credit score. If you exceed the 5/24 limit, your only option is to wait until you fall below that threshold before applying for the Southwest Premier card.

Elements that influence your credit score

Prior to applying for the Southwest Premier card, it’s essential to understand the elements that contribute to your credit score. Five key factors affect your credit score, and simply applying for a new credit card can alter it.

According to FICO, credit scores are determined using credit data from your credit report in the following percentages:

• Payment history (35%): Record of timely payments on credit accounts
• Amounts owed (30%): The ratio of credit you're using compared to your available credit, known as credit utilization
• Length of credit history (15%): Duration that your credit accounts have been active and how recently you've used them
• New credit (10%): Opening several credit accounts in a short timeframe may raise concerns for lenders
• Credit mix (10%): Usage of various types of credit

Several factors influence your credit score. It’s crucial to comprehend your credit score before applying for the Southwest Premier card.

There’s never a reason to pay to check your credit score. Many options exist to access it for free.

What to do if your application is denied

Although receiving a denial may not be what you hoped for, there are actions you can take to encourage Chase to review your application again, so don’t lose hope. By law, banks must send you a letter explaining the reasons for your rejection.

After determining the reason for your rejection, you can call the reconsideration line. This allows you to discuss your rejected application with an agent and request a review. From there, you can present your case and persuade the agent to approve your card application.

Furthermore, Chase sometimes imposes limits on the total amount of your credit line. If you’ve been denied, you can request that Chase transfer unused credit from an existing card to a new one, which may improve your chances of approval. While this isn’t guaranteed, it has been successful for some TPG staffers in the past.

Conclusion

Although there are many enticing credit card offers available, not everyone will qualify for all the bonuses they desire. We frequently discuss eligibility restrictions for bonuses, such as Chase's 5/24 rule and Amex's once-per-lifetime policy, but it's just as crucial to assess whether your credit score is sufficient for approval.

For additional details, check out our complete review of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier card.