Sometimes the credit card companies make it really enticing to apply for a new credit card or accept that great balance transfer option by filling the mailbox with a daily barrage of pre-approved and pre-screened offers - just sign the dotted line, drop the postage paid reply in the mailbox, and receive your new credit card by mail within a couple of weeks. It really couldn't be much easier. But do you know the reasons why you should apply for a credit card online instead of by mail?

Applying Online Is More Secure - If you've ever given any consideration to how the mail is processed, just how much of it there really is, and how many times it's handled before it reaches its final destination, it really is a wonder how that mail finally ends up where it's supposed too. Let's face it - each step along the postal way, there's a perfect opportunity for your application to be lost, delayed, or compromised. With all of the sensitive information listed right there on the application, an identity thief would have pretty much all they need just by swiping the piece of mail for themselves. When applying online, there are no worries to be had about whether your application has ever been delivered.

Usually an Instant Decision Online - Applying for a credit card online has another distinct advantage as opposed to mail when it comes to speeding up the whole process. Many times, online applications are approved in just seconds while you wait - no need to wait a week for a paper application to be delivered and another week before it's ever opened by the receiver. Instant approval decisions online mean you'll have that new credit card in half the time it takes when applying by mail.

Get Signed Online All at Once - There are numerous benefits to taking advantage of a credit card's associated online account center. From being able to handle online payments, to reviewing the latest charges at any time, and for having access to all of the latest promotions and deals, managing a credit card account online is definitely the way to go. And many times when you apply for a credit card online, you'll automatically be given access to that account center right away with no extra effort necessary.

Applying Online Makes Comparison Easy - It's human nature to try and score the best deal and to know that we're getting the most for our money. Therefore, it should be no surprise that comparing credit card offers to find the perfect match should be a priority. Unfortunately, it's really difficult to compare credit card offers that arrive by mail. By using the available tools to compare and apply for credit cards online, that hurdle is simple to overcome. Finding all of the information needed to make a prudent financial decision is a breeze online!

There are plenty of reasons why you should apply for a credit card online instead of through the mail. If you've never tried the process before, you'll be pleasantly surprised!