Want to get a credit limit increase (CLI) on your Chase card? The good news is Chase is one of the easier credit card companies to get increases from, although you will need great payment history with Chase and responsible credit use. Here are some steps you can take to request the CLI and improve your chances.
Update: We now have a credit limit increase calculator that allows you to estimate your chances of a credit limit increase for Chase and other card issuers using historical data. In many cases you may be more likely to get approved for additional credit by applying for a new card with a different case.
We currently recommend looking into the Milestone® Gold MasterCard® which allows you to see if you’re pre-qualified before you apply.
Automatic Credit Limit Increases from Chase
Chase, like a number of credit card issuers, automatically increases your credit limit in most cases if you use your card regularly, pay in full (or carry only a small balance) and make payments on time. Typically, automatic credit limit increases are granted every 6 to 12 months, although you may find your account isn’t receiving this automatic bump, even if you’re playing by the rules. In this case, you’ll need to call Chase and request an increase over the phone.
How to Request a CLI
The most straightforward way to get a credit limit increase is by calling Chase directly and asking a representative about a CLI. They will usually direct you to someone in a different department and you can make your case and tell them why you’d like the credit limit increase. The key here is to have a valid reason, not just because you’d like to improve your credit score.
When you request the credit limit increase, keep in mind Chase will usually do a hard pull on your credit report. They may also want additional information from you to justify the increase, such as higher income, the need for more versatility from your credit card or the desire to do a balance transfer.
According to a Chase customer service representative, you can also email the customer service department with your request and they ask that you include your gross annual income and the total credit line you are requesting (which is your current credit line plus the amount of the requested increase).
Tips to Improve Your Odds
Want to boost your chances of success? Here are some tips to keep in mind when dealing with Chase:
- Be conservative in your request. If you have a credit limit of $2,000, don’t ask for a new limit of $10,000 as you’ll be more likely to get approved if you request a moderate increase of $500 to $1,000.
- As with any credit card company, having a good reason for the credit limit increase boosts your chance of getting approved. If your credit limit is too low to make the card useful, let them know. You should also inform them if you plan to transfer a balance and need a higher limit or plan to finance a large purchase.
- Is your Chase credit card limit lower than your other credit cards? When Chase pulls your credit report, this will help your case. If they can see that other credit card companies have extended the same level of credit (and risk) to you, they will be more likely to at least match another credit limit.
- Chase won’t consider your account for a CLI if you haven’t been a cardholder for at least 6 months. By one year, you should be approved for a credit limit increase, assuming you’ve been responsible with your credit use.
- If your request is denied, call back and ask to speak to someone about the matter. You can have your request sent to a senior underwriter who can review your account by hand and give you a second chance. It seems many people have had luck getting Chase to change its mind about a credit limit increase by simply trying again and making their case.
