Should You Get the Apple Card? What to Know Before You Apply

The Apple Card has gained popularity for its sleek design, instant iPhone integration, and no-fee promise — but is it actually a good credit card? Whether you’re building credit or looking for a new daily driver, here’s what you should know before applying.

What Is the Apple Card?

The Apple Card is a credit card issued by Goldman Sachs and built into your Apple Wallet. It’s designed primarily for iPhone users and emphasizes privacy, simplicity, and no hidden fees.

You can apply directly through your iPhone’s Wallet app and get an instant decision in most cases.

What Credit Score Do You Need for Apple Card?

Minimum FICO Score: Around 660
Ideal Score for Approval: 700+ for better limits and rates
Score Type Used: Apple uses TransUnion FICO Score 9 during the application process

Note: If you’re not approved, Apple will show you why and let you reapply after 30 days or take part in their Path to Apple Card credit improvement program.

Pros of the Apple Card

✅ No Fees — Ever

No annual fee, no late fees, no over-limit fees, no foreign transaction fees.

✅ Daily Cash Back

3% on Apple purchases (Apple Store, iTunes, App Store, Apple services)
3% at select merchants (e.g., Uber, Walgreens, Nike, T-Mobile, Exxon)
2% on all purchases made with Apple Pay
1% on all other purchases (physical card use)

✅ Instant Approval and Use

Apply in minutes and use immediately with Apple Pay

✅ Spending Insights & Budget Tools

Categorized spending breakdowns in the Wallet app

✅ Privacy and Security

No card number printed
Randomly generated virtual card numbers for each purchase
Face ID or Touch ID for approval

✅ Pay Over Time (Installments on Apple Products)

0% financing on Apple devices when purchased directly

Cons of the Apple Card

❌ Requires an iPhone

No Android support
Apple Pay features limited to iOS users

❌ Not Great for Travel Rewards or Big Bonuses

No sign-up bonus
No points or miles for flights/hotels

❌ Only 1% Cash Back for Physical Card Use

You’ll need to use Apple Pay for best rewards

❌ Lower Credit Limits for Some Users

Reports of lower-than-expected limits, especially for new credit users

❌ Not Ideal for Balance Transfers

No 0% APR introductory offers or transfer incentives

Who Is the Apple Card Good For?

This card is best if you:

Already use an iPhone and Apple Pay regularly
Want a no-fee, easy-to-manage card
Value cash back on daily purchases
Make frequent purchases from Apple or Apple partners
Prefer digital banking with clear spending insights

Not the Best Fit If You:

Don’t use an iPhone
Want to travel and earn miles or hotel points
Need a balance transfer or long 0% intro APR
Want large sign-up bonuses or tiered reward programs

Quick Summary:

Feature	Apple Card
Issuer	Goldman Sachs
Network	Mastercard
Credit Needed	Good (660–700+)
Rewards	1–3% Daily Cash (not points)
Fees	$0 (No annual, late, or foreign fees)
Tech Requirement	iPhone required
Best For	Apple users, cash back, simplicity

If you’re tech-savvy, prefer Apple Pay, and want a no-fuss card with solid everyday rewards, the Apple Card might be a great choice — especially if you already live in the Apple ecosystem.

Want a comparison post between Apple Card and other top cash back cards? Let me know!