At a Glance

If you’re wondering about the credit score needed for a Discover card, you’re not alone. Discover offers a range of credit cards with various features and benefits, and the minimum credit score for Discover cards can vary depending on the specific card you’re interested in. In this article, we’ll explore the credit score requirements for different Discover cards and provide valuable insights to help you secure the one that best suits your needs.

In this article, you’ll learn:

What credit score do you need for a Discover card?

The credit score for Discover card approval typically falls within the good to excellent range. While specific requirements can vary, most sources suggest a minimum credit score for Discover cards of at least 640 to be eligible for a Discover credit card. It’s important to note that higher credit scores for Discover card approval can increase your chances of approval and provide access to better credit card terms and rewards.

67%

the approval rate of Discover cards compared to an average approval rate of 60% for all major credit card issuers. Discover has the highest approval rate of all major credit card issuers.

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Credit score required for different Discover cards

Discover offers a diverse range of credit cards, each tailored to different needs and preferences. Here are the credit score requirements for some of the most popular Discover cards:

1. Discover it® Cash Back

The credit score needed for Discover it® Cash Back card is one of Discover’s flagship offerings. To qualify for this card, you generally need a good to excellent credit score, which typically means a FICO score of 700 or higher for Discover card approval. Think of it as the red carpet of credit scores, folks!

Discover it® Cash Back

Apply now with Discover Read full review
Reward rate: 1% - 5%
Reward details: Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically. close-icon

Card summary

Annual fee: $0
Regular APR: 16.49% - 27.49%

2. Discover it® Secured Credit Card

Now, if your credit score isn’t exactly partying with the A-listers, you might consider the Discover it® Secured Credit Card. It’s designed for individuals looking to build or rebuild their credit. This card requires a security deposit but is more accessible, even for those with fair or poor credit – a lower credit score for Discover card approval.

Discover It® Secured

Apply now with Discover
Reward rate: 1% - 2%
Reward details: Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all your other purchases automatically. 2 x Cash Back with Cashback Match, get an unlimited dollar-for-dollar match of all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year, automatically. close-icon

Card summary

Annual fee: $0
Regular APR: 20.45% - 27.24%

3. Discover it® Miles Card

For the Discover it® Miles Card, a good to excellent credit score is generally required. This means a FICO score of 700 or higher is often needed for Discover card approval for this travel rewards card. Picture this card as your passport to high-flying credit scores.

Discover it® Miles

Apply now with Discover Read full review
Reward rate: 1.50%
Reward details: 1.5X Miles on every dollar of every purchase close-icon

Card summary

Annual fee: $0
Regular APR: 16.24% - 27.24%

4. Discover it® Student Cards

Discover also offers student credit cards with more lenient credit score requirements. Students with limited or no credit history may be able to qualify for these cards, making them a great choice for those in college or just starting to build credit. It’s worth noting that credit score requirements for Discover student cards are often lower than those for standard cards. It’s like a college scholarship for your credit!

Apply now: Discover it® Student Cards

What are the minimum Discover credit card requirements?

The minimum requirements for a Discover credit card typically include:

1. Credit score: Discover generally requires a good to excellent credit score, which is usually considered to be 670 or higher.

2. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Discover credit card.

3. Income: You need to have a steady income to show that you can repay the credit card debt.

4. Residency: You must be a U.S. resident or have a valid U.S. mailing address to apply.

These are general guidelines, and the specific requirements can vary depending on the type of Discover credit card you’re interested in.

How to check if you’re pre-approved for a Discover card?

Discover offers a pre-approval tool on their website, which allows you to check if you’re eligible for a Discover card without affecting your credit score. This tool is a helpful way to gauge your approval odds before applying for a specific card, especially if you’re uncertain about the credit score for Discover card approval. It’s like peeking through the credit score curtain without revealing your true score.

How to improve your credit score to get your preferred credit card?

If your credit score doesn’t meet the credit score requirements for your desired Discover card, there are steps you can take to improve your creditworthiness. Some tips include paying bills on time, reducing credit card balances, and addressing any errors on your credit report. This can help you achieve the average credit score for a Discover card or even higher. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint, so don’t expect instant results.

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FAQs

While it’s possible to get a Discover card with a credit score around 600 for Discover card approval, it may limit your options. You may be more likely to qualify for a secured card or a card with fewer rewards and benefits. Consider it the “entry-level card” to the world of credit cards.

Discover’s FICO score requirements typically range from 640 to 700, depending on the specific card, making it the credit score for Discover card approval criteria. Think of it as the VIP section with velvet ropes.

Credit limits for Discover cards vary based on your creditworthiness. Higher credit scores may lead to higher initial credit limits, showcasing the credit score for Discover card limits. It’s like the credit card version of a high-wire balancing act.

The ease of approval depends on your credit profile. If you have a good to excellent credit score and a stable income, your chances of approval are higher. It’s crucial to have a good credit score for Discover credit card approval. Think of it as a credit card red carpet stroll.

Discover offers options like the Discover it® Secured Credit Card for those with fair or poor credit. These cards can help you build or rebuild your credit, even if you don’t meet the credit score for Discover card approval for other cards. It’s like credit card rehab!

Yes, Discover typically checks your income when you apply for a credit card. Your income is one of the factors that credit card issuers use to determine your credit limit and eligibility for a card. Discover may ask you to provide information about your income on your application, and they may verify this information using various methods, such as requesting pay stubs or tax documents. Your income helps Discover assess your ability to make payments on the card and manage your credit responsibly.

To apply for a Discover credit card, you typically need to provide personal information like your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and contact details. Additionally, you’ll need to disclose your annual income, employment status (including employer details), and housing situation. Supporting documents such as pay stubs, tax documents, or bank statements may be required to verify this information. Identification documents like a driver’s license or passport are also necessary. Having these documents ready can help streamline the application process and increase your chances of approval for a Discover credit card.