In case you didn’t already know, Chase is now being more strict when it comes to approving applicants with lots of applications for new credit in the last two years. Another change they’ve made is they now write down notes in your file when you call reconsideration, this means that simply hanging up and calling again (to try and get a more lenient representative) doesn’t work either.
This blog is all about finding new ways to game the system, so when one opportunity dries up I always like to try and find a possible solution. I haven’t personally tried this (I’m not currently in the country) but have had a few friends try that were denied due to excessive inquiries and it has worked for them.
Instead of applying online, apply at a Chase branch. If you have a deposit account with Chase then their bankers will do their best to make sure your application is approved, if it isn’t approved automatically they are able to call a different number and plead the case on your behalf.
Obviously if you’ve already applied and been denied, you’ll need to apply again which means that Chase will do another hard pull – but that could make sense for some. Applying in branch is a bit of a hassle as it means actually leaving your house and filling out the application form in person, but if you have a lot of recent inquiries then it probably makes sense to go there first. As an added benefit, sometimes the in branch bonuses are better than those advertised online (presumably because they aren’t paying commission to an affiliate for the lead).
If you don’t already have a Chase deposit account, I’d recommend signing up for one before applying in branch. It’s possible to get a sign up bonus on these accounts as well (currently up to $500 for the Chase checking/savings combo) – we keep this page updated with the best current offers.
If you’ve been denied online and then try to apply in branch, please share your experiences in the comments below.
