Wells Fargo has a solid lineup of credit cards to choose from, whether you want flat-rate cash back, travel rewards, or a long intro APR period to pay down a balance. But before you apply, it helps to know where your credit stands and what Wells Fargo is actually looking for.
This article covers the credit score requirements for Wells Fargo’s main card offerings, what else the bank considers during the approval process, and how to put together the strongest application possible.
Credit Score Requirements for Wells Fargo Credit Cards
Most Wells Fargo credit cards require a credit score of at least 670, which sits in the good credit range. Applicants with scores above that threshold generally have stronger approval odds, while those closer to the floor may face closer review of the rest of their profile.
Keep in mind that your credit score is only one part of the equation. Wells Fargo also looks at your income, existing debt, and overall credit history when making its decision.
How to Check If You’re Pre-Selected
Wells Fargo lets you check for pre-selected card offers without triggering a hard inquiry on your credit report. It takes about a minute and gives you a sense of where you stand before you formally apply.
Here’s how to do it:
- Visit: Wells Fargo’s pre-selected offers page on their website.
- Enter: Your full name, current address, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Existing online banking customers can log in instead.
- Submit: Click through to see if any offers are available for you.
A pre-selected offer means Wells Fargo has already reviewed some of your credit data and thinks you’re likely to qualify. It is not a guarantee of approval, but it is a good sign. If no offers appear, you can still apply directly for any card that fits your profile.
Wells Fargo Credit Cards Worth Considering
Wells Fargo has three main personal credit cards, each built around a different type of spender.
- Wells Fargo Active Cash Card: Earns 2% cash back on all purchases with no categories to track. A strong choice for simplicity.
- Wells Fargo Autograph Card: Earns 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas, transit, streaming, and phone plans. Better for people with predictable spending in those categories.
- Wells Fargo Reflect Card: Offers one of the longest intro APR periods available, making it a practical option if you need time to pay down a balance interest-free.
All three cards have no annual fee, which keeps the decision low-risk if you are trying to decide where to start.
How to Improve Your Approval Odds
A strong credit score helps, but Wells Fargo looks at your full financial picture. These steps can make a real difference before you apply.
- Check your credit reports: Pull your reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion before applying. Look for errors, outdated negative items, or accounts you don’t recognize. Disputing inaccuracies can improve your score faster than most other steps.
- Lower your credit utilization: Using a high percentage of your available revolving credit is a red flag for lenders. Get each card below 30% of its limit, and lower is better.
- Keep your payment history clean: Wells Fargo wants to see on-time payments across your accounts. Set up autopay for at least the minimum payment so you never miss a due date.
- Limit new credit applications: Every hard inquiry temporarily dips your score. Avoid applying for other credit products in the months before you apply for a Wells Fargo card.
- Show stable income: Wells Fargo considers your ability to repay. If your income has been consistent, that works in your favor. Be prepared to provide accurate income figures on your application.
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Bottom Line
Wells Fargo’s credit card lineup is accessible if your credit is in good shape, but your score alone won’t determine the outcome. The bank looks at your full profile, including your income, utilization, and payment history, so every part of your application matters.
If your score or credit profile needs work, the steps above are a solid starting point. A few months of consistent payments and lower balances can move the needle more than most people expect. Once you’re in a stronger position, Wells Fargo has options worth considering across cash back, travel rewards, and balance management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wells Fargo have cards for lower credit scores?
Wells Fargo previously offered a secured credit card designed for people building or rebuilding credit, but it is no longer accepting applications. For now, the main consumer card lineup targets applicants with good credit or better. If your score is below 670, working to improve it before applying is the most practical path forward.
Which credit bureaus does Wells Fargo use?
Wells Fargo pulls from all three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Depending on your location and the specific card you apply for, the bank may check one or all three.
Do Wells Fargo cards earn rewards?
Yes. The Active Cash Card earns 2% cash back on everything. The Autograph Card earns 3X points in popular spending categories including restaurants, travel, gas, and streaming. The Reflect Card is built around its intro APR offer rather than ongoing rewards, so it’s better suited for people focused on paying down a balance.
