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How to Apply for the Total Visa Credit Card

Everything you need to know to apply, qualify, and use the Total Visa Credit Card effectively—including practical tips to increase approval.

Total Visa Rewards
Source: Total Visa Rewards

Getting a credit card when you have a low or no credit score can feel like a catch-22. That’s why the Total Visa Credit Card stands out as one of the few unsecured options still available for people with credit challenges. But how do you make sure you’re approved—and use it in a way that improves your financial standing? Here’s your complete guide.

✅ Who Is Eligible for the Total Visa Credit Card?

To qualify for the Total Visa Credit Card, applicants typically need to meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old (19 in some states);
  • Legal Residency: Must have a valid U.S. mailing address and Social Security Number;
  • Steady Income: Must demonstrate income that supports credit line obligations;
  • Bank Account: A checking account is required to pay fees and manage monthly bills.

The issuer, The Bank of Missouri, does not require a high credit score. In fact, many approved applicants have scores in the 500–600 range or even lower.

🔍 How Creditworthiness Is Evaluated

The issuer performs a soft credit pull during prequalification, followed by a hard inquiry upon application. They assess:

  • Recent delinquencies or bankruptcies
  • Current income and employment stability
  • Debt-to-income ratio
  • Existing obligations and limits with other lenders

If your recent credit behavior shows responsibility—even if your overall score is low—you may still get approved.

📝 Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Total Visa Card

Here’s how the process works from start to finish:

  1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the Total Visa Card’s application page.
  2. Complete Pre-Qualification: Enter your basic information to see if you’re eligible without impacting your credit score.
  3. Fill Out Full Application: Provide your address, income, employment, and bank details.
  4. Accept Terms and Fees: Review the cardholder agreement, especially the one-time program fee required for activation.
  5. Wait for Approval: Some applicants receive an instant decision; others may wait 7–10 business days for mail confirmation.
  6. Activate Your Card: After approval, pay the one-time program fee to activate your card.
  7. Set Up Online Access: Register online to manage your account, track usage, and make payments.

Once active, your new account is reported to the credit bureaus—often within 30–45 days.

Total Visa Rewards
Source: Total Visa Rewards

📈 Tips to Maximize Your Approval Odds

Before applying, take the following actions to boost your chances:

  • Pay Off Existing Debts: Try to reduce credit utilization on other cards to below 30%.
  • Update Your Income: Report your most current, stable monthly income—including part-time or gig work.
  • Avoid Multiple Applications: Applying for many credit cards in a short time can lower your score.
  • Have a Checking Account in Good Standing: NSF or overdraft history may be viewed negatively.
  • Use Pre-Qualification: It helps you screen eligibility without hurting your score.

💡 Insider Hacks to Use the Card Wisely

Once you’re approved, smart usage is key. Here’s how to get the most out of it:

  • Keep Balances Low: Using under 10% of your limit (e.g., $20–$30 on a $300 limit) shows great credit behavior.
  • Automate Payments: Set up autopay for at least the minimum amount due to avoid late fees and credit damage.
  • Increase Limit Requests: After six months of on-time payments, consider requesting a credit limit increase to improve your credit utilization ratio.
  • Use It for Essentials Only: Focus on predictable, easy-to-manage expenses like streaming services or fuel.
  • Pay in Full Monthly: To avoid the extremely high APR, always pay your balance in full before the due date.

These tactics can turn a basic credit builder into a credit-repair tool.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I apply if I’ve declared bankruptcy?

Yes, many applicants with recent bankruptcies are approved. Just make sure your discharge has been finalized.

2. Is the program fee refundable if I change my mind?

No, the $95 program fee is non-refundable once you choose to activate your account.

3. Will I get a credit increase over time?

It’s possible, but not guaranteed. You may request a review after 6–12 months of responsible use.

4. Does the card offer a grace period for payments?

Yes, you generally have a 21–25 day grace period after your billing cycle ends.

5. Will I receive pre-approval offers in the mail?

Some users do, but the best way to check is via the website’s pre-qualification tool.

6. What if I don’t have a bank account?

A checking account is required to pay the initial activation fee and manage payments.

7. Can I use the card internationally?

No, this card is for domestic use only and may not work outside the U.S.

8. How long does it take to see my credit score improve?

Typically, users may see changes in their credit score within 2–3 months if they pay on time and keep balances low.

9. Can I add an authorized user?

This card doesn’t allow for authorized users at this time.

10. Is this card good for long-term use?

It’s designed more as a temporary tool to build credit—after 12–18 months, consider transitioning to a lower-fee or rewards card.

📌 Final Thoughts: Is This Card Right for You?

The Total Visa Credit Card is ideal for people with few or no credit options who need a reliable entry point. Its unsecured structure and reporting to all three bureaus give it real utility for anyone trying to rebuild from scratch.

That said, this is not a premium product. Its value lies in the door it opens—not the features it brings. Used wisely, it can be a bridge to better credit cards and stronger financial health.

Want to apply now or see if you’re pre-qualified without hurting your score? Visit the official Total Visa site and take the first step today.

A credit card expert, she utilizes her expertise to create informative content on credit cards, empowering others with financial knowledge.