Finding an "Instant" Decision Credit Card

While most credit card companies like to have some time to evaluate your application, more and more rely on credit reporting formulas and online information access and can in almost all cases get you an instant credit card within just a few minutes of your application online.

Beware, though, that these aren't always the cards with the best rates, and that sometimes banks recognize that instant decision credit cards are for people who have little patience for more traditional application processes, so the rates are often jacked up even higher.

But the good news is that there are definitely cards you can apply for online, and here's a summary of some of the best, with the latest terms as detailed:

Amazon.com Platinum Visa Card

$20 automatic discount on your first qualifying Amazon purchase
No annual fee
Instant approval
Free rewards that quickly generate Amazon gift certificates
0% APR for six months on purchases and balance transfers, then a low variable rate afterwards (currently 13.24%)

apply online

Blue from American Express

0% introductory APR on purchases for up to 15 months
Then a variable APR as low as 7.99%
3.99% fixed APR on balance transfers
Free rewards program - Earn one point for virtually every dollar
Earn points redeemable for travel, merchandise and more
No annual fee

Citi Platinum Select Card

0% APR* on balance transfers and purchases for 9 months
No balance transfer fee for balances transferred in response to this offer
Secure, free online account management
$0 liability on unauthorized purchases
No annual fee

Blue Cash from American Express

0% introductory APR on purchases for up to 15 months
Balance transfers: 5.99% or 7.99% fixed APR until paid in full
Up to 5% cash back on purchases
Pay over time or pay in full
No annual fee

The GM Credit Card

5% GM Card Earnings on every purchase
Redeem earnings toward the purchase or lease of a new GM vehicle
0% APR on initial balance transfers for six months*
Exclusive offers and promotions
No annual fee

Household Bank / Orchard Bank Credit Card

Only 3.9% APR for the first six months
Annual Fee of $0 to $79, depending on your credit history
Exclusive offers and promotions
Apply Online and Get Accepted within 60 Seconds

Citi Dividend Platinum Select Card

0% APR* on balance transfers for 9 months, 9.49% thereafter
5% cash back** on purchases at supermarkets, drugstores & gas stations
Earn 1% cash back** on all other purchases
$0 Liability on unauthorized purchases
Secure, free online account management
No annual fee

Blue for Business from American Express Credit Card

0% APR* on balance transfers for 9 months, 9.49% thereafter
5% cash back** on purchases at supermarkets, drugstores & gas stations
Earn 1% cash back** on all other purchases
$0 Liability on unauthorized purchases
Secure, free online account management
No annual fee

American Express Gold Business Credit Card

First year fee-free
Gold card events
For businesses with good credit
Get a decision in less than 60 seconds
No pre-set spending limit

Platinum Business Credit Card from American Express

0% APR for the first 9 months on purchases and balance transfers
Get a decision in less than 60 seconds
Good credit ratings needed
Pay over time
No annual fee