Does being retired affect your chances of getting a new credit card?

Growingold

Just wondered if people had faced rejection when applying for a new card because they said they were retired.  Large income with good credit rating .

thriftytwosome

I had no problem. I took one out within the last year and I am well over retiring age. I hadn't had one for some years but decided it was wise to have one now.

MorningcoffeeIV

It varies by lender.

They won't take any notice of your good credit rating, but will take a whole range of variables into account, of which employment status is just one.

Gerry1

Yes, the 118118 card is ageist and will immediately reject you.

roddydogs

Never had a problem.

JohnSwift10

I got rejected for Amex and also a Halifax clarity card even though I had a Halifax reward account

geordiejon

got one with first direct no problem.

WillPS

Growingold said:

Just wondered if people had faced rejection when applying for a new card because they said they were retired.  Large income with good credit rating .

Banks don't tell you why you have been declined. Supposition required on the applicant's part and often people draw the wrong conclusions.

oldagetraveller1

Never been declined in spite of being well past State Pension age and a not very big income. Selected "retired" when occupation is entered.

Always offered low limits though, which doesn't particularly bother me. In fact I've requested lower limits with some.

My credit history is flawless, maybe that helps?

Indout96

Barclaycard have refused to increase my dads card limit a couple of times, he is 86 but has a very good income from investments. He is going to Rio / Buenos Aires in October and Cambodia next Feb and for some reason prefers to use Barclaycard rather than his other cards. 

retiredbanker1

I have found getting some cards no problem but with a low limit - some I do not pass eligibility criteria because of lowish pension but topped up with dividend and interest income (I suppose not guaranteed so some may not allow it to be counted).

I often get money/balance transfer offers on existing cards so not a problem.