If you want more available credit on your Chase credit card, you can request a credit limit increase directly through the Chase app. The process is fairly simple, but there are a few things you should know before submitting your request, especially because the request could involve a credit inquiry.
How to Request a Credit Limit Increase in the Chase App
To start your credit limit increase request, open the Chase app and go to your main account screen. Scroll down to your credit cards and select the card for which you want a higher limit.
Once you’re inside the card, look below the card image for the available options. Tap “Manage account.”
On the Manage Account screen, you’ll see several options and account management tools. Look for the section called “Credit management” and select “Credit line increase.”
Chase will then show you a short form asking for some additional information.
Enter Your Income and Monthly Housing Payment
The first field asks for your total gross annual income. This is an important distinction because gross income is not the same as your take-home pay.
Your gross annual income is the amount you earn before taxes and other deductions. Depending on your situation, this can include salary, wages, overtime, bonuses, interest, dividends, rental income, retirement benefits, and Social Security.
Enter an accurate figure based on your actual income. Don’t intentionally report a lower amount, but don’t inflate your income either.
The second field asks for your monthly mortgage or rent payment. Enter the amount you actually pay each month.
Once you’ve entered both pieces of information, tap “Next.”
Review Your Credit Limit Increase Request
Chase will show you a confirmation screen with the information you’ve entered. Take a moment to check your card details, annual income, and monthly rent or mortgage payment.
If everything is correct, you can submit the request for a credit limit increase.
Before you do, however, there is one important consideration.
A Credit Limit Increase Could Affect Your Credit
Requesting a credit limit increase from Chase can potentially result in a hard inquiry on your credit report. A hard inquiry may cause a small temporary drop in your credit score and can remain on your credit report for up to two years.
The type of inquiry can depend on your account and circumstances, and Chase does not necessarily make the outcome clear before you submit the request. Some customers may receive a soft inquiry, while others may receive a hard inquiry.
If you’re concerned about a hard inquiry, especially if you’re preparing to apply for a mortgage, car loan, or another credit card, call the phone number on the back of your Chase card before submitting your request. Ask whether your particular request will result in a hard or soft inquiry.
When to Request a Credit Limit Increase
Timing can make a difference when you’re considering a credit limit increase. While there are no guarantees, several factors may work in your favor.
It’s generally better to have had the card open for at least several months, with a longer account history being even more helpful. A brand-new account may be less likely to receive an increase.
Your payment history also matters. Consistently making payments on time shows responsible credit management.
Regular card activity can also be helpful. If you use your card regularly and manage the balance responsibly, Chase has more information to evaluate your account.
An increase in your income may also strengthen your request, particularly if your current income can support a higher credit limit.
Finally, avoid requesting an increase when your existing card is heavily maxed out. A high balance relative to your current credit limit could make the request less favorable.
What Happens After You Submit
After submitting your credit limit increase request, there are several possible outcomes.
You may receive an instant approval and see your new credit limit shortly afterward. This is the quickest outcome.
Chase may also need additional time to review your request. In that case, you may receive a decision by mail or email, often within 7 to 10 business days.
The third possibility is that your request is denied. If that happens, Chase should send you a letter explaining the reason for the decision. That information can help you understand what may need to improve before requesting another increase.
How a Higher Credit Limit Can Help
If your credit limit increase is approved, remember that the additional available credit isn’t necessarily a reason to spend more.
One of the biggest benefits of a higher limit can be a lower credit utilization ratio. This ratio represents how much of your available revolving credit you’re using.
For example, if you normally have a $2,000 balance on a card with a $5,000 limit, you’re using 40% of your available credit. If the limit increases to $10,000 while your spending stays the same, your utilization drops to 20%.
Keeping your spending at the same level while having a higher limit can therefore help keep your credit utilization lower.
Final Thoughts
Requesting a credit limit increase on your Chase credit card is straightforward through the Chase app. You’ll need to provide your gross annual income and monthly rent or mortgage payment, review the information, and submit the request.
Before submitting, consider whether a potential hard inquiry could matter to you. If you’re planning to apply for another major loan or credit account soon, contacting Chase first can help you understand what type of credit inquiry may be involved.
If you’re approved, use the higher limit as a financial tool rather than an invitation to spend more. Keeping your spending under control while maintaining a larger available credit limit can help keep your credit utilization lower.
