9 Best Credit Cards with Instant Use You Can Start Using Today [2025 Guide]

Need to make an urgent purchase but don't have time to wait for a physical card? Credit cards with instant use capabilities solve this exact problem by providing immediate access to your credit line after approval.

Waiting 7-10 business days for a new credit card can feel like an eternity when you need to make a purchase right away. Thankfully, several major issuers now offer instant credit card approval and use, allowing you to start making purchases immediately. American Express stands out by offering instant card numbers for all its products, including The Platinum Card from American Express and American Express Gold Card.

Additionally, getting instant access to your new card provides one to two extra weeks to work toward earning welcome bonuses. This timing advantage can be significant when meeting minimum spending requirements for generous sign-up offers.

Credit cards you can use instantly are particularly valuable in emergency situations. The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card from Bank of America consistently offers an instant card number, while Capital One provides immediate access for existing customers through their mobile app. The Bilt Mastercard from Wells Fargo also offers instant access through its rewards app.

Most issuers can make approval decisions within minutes, and some provide instant virtual credit cards shortly after. With the average credit card APR at 22.80% in 2024, choosing the right card with instant access is crucial for both immediate needs and long-term value.

In this guide, we'll explore the nine best instant use credit cards available today, examining their features, approval processes, and benefits to help you find the perfect match for your financial needs.

The Platinum Card from American Express

Image Source: American Express

The Platinum Card from American Express stands as one of the premier options among credit cards with instant use capabilities, offering immediate account access upon approval. For travelers and luxury enthusiasts seeking instant spending power, this card delivers exceptional flexibility alongside premium benefits.

The Platinum Card from American Express key features

The standout feature of this premium card is its Instant Card Number functionality, which provides immediate access to your credit line after approval. Moreover, the card offers:

• 5X Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel (up to $500,000 annually)

• 5X points on prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel

• 100,000 Membership Rewards points welcome offer after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months

• No preset spending limit (your purchasing power adjusts based on factors like spending history and credit profile)

  
  

The Platinum Card from American Express instant use process

Getting instant access to your Platinum Card is straightforward. After approval, American Express automatically provides your full card number if your identity can be verified. The process works as follows:

1. Apply online via desktop or mobile device (or call customer service)

2. Upon approval, you'll immediately receive your card number

3. Add your new card to digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, PayPal, or Amazon Pay

4. Start making purchases online or where digital wallets are accepted

The instant card number will be identical to your physical card, which arrives within 5-7 business days. However, the four-digit card identification number will differ from your physical card.

The Platinum Card from American Express rewards and benefits

Beyond instant access, this card offers a wealth of premium benefits worth over $1,500 annually. Key benefits include:

• Access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide through the Global Lounge Collection

• Up to $200 airline fee credit annually for incidental fees with your selected airline

• Up to $200 in Uber Cash annually ($15 monthly plus $20 in December)

• Up to $200 hotel credit on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or Hotel Collection bookings

• Up to $240 digital entertainment credit yearly ($20 monthly) for eligible subscriptions

• Up to $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit annually ($50 semi-annually)

• Complimentary Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status

• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit (up to $120)

  
  

The Platinum Card from American Express pricing

The annual fee is $695. Though substantial, this fee is offset by the numerous statement credits and benefits that can exceed $1,500 in value annually when fully utilized. Additional authorized users cost $195 each per year, and they receive many of the same benefits, including lounge access and hotel elite status.

The Platinum Card from American Express best for

This card is ideal for frequent travelers seeking instant card access combined with premium travel perks. It particularly suits those who:

• Travel regularly and can utilize the extensive lounge network

• Book flights and hotels directly and can maximize the 5X points categories

• Will take advantage of the numerous statement credits

• Value luxury travel experiences and elite status with hotel partners

• Need immediate card access for urgent travel bookings or purchases

The ability to start earning rewards immediately after approval further enhances the value proposition for those working toward the substantial welcome bonus.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card delivers impressive flexibility with its instant use capability, allowing you to start making purchases before your physical card arrives. This travel-focused card combines immediate access with robust rewards, making it an excellent choice for those needing instant spending power.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card key features

The standout attributes of this popular travel card include:

• Limited-time welcome offer of 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in first 3 months

• Digital wallet compatibility with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay

• Annual $50 statement credit for hotel stays booked through Chase Travel

• 10% anniversary points bonus based on total annual spend

• No foreign transaction fees when using abroad

• Comprehensive travel insurance package

  
  

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card instant use process

Getting instant access to your card requires these steps:

1. Apply online and receive instant approval

2. Create a Chase username and password during the application process if you don't already have one

3. Access your new card through the Chase Mobile app

4. Navigate to "Account Services" then select "Digital Wallets"

5. Choose your preferred wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay)

6. Select your new card to add it to your wallet

For iPhone users, the card appears immediately in Apple Pay after approval. Once added to your digital wallet, you can begin making purchases immediately—even completing minimum spending requirements for the welcome bonus before receiving your physical card.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card rewards and benefits

The card offers a tiered rewards structure:

• 5x total points on travel purchased through Chase Travel (excluding hotel purchases that qualify for the $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit)

• 3x points on dining, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out

• 3x points on select streaming services and online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs)

• 2x points on all other travel purchases

• 1x point on everything else

  
  

Furthermore, your Ultimate Rewards points gain 25% more value when redeemed for travel through Chase's portal, making 60,000 points worth $750 toward travel. The card additionally includes comprehensive travel protections:

• Trip cancelation/interruption insurance (up to $10,000 per person, $20,000 per trip)

• Trip delay reimbursement (up to $500 per ticket for delays over 12 hours)

• Baggage delay insurance ($100 per day for up to 5 days)

• Primary auto rental collision coverage (up to the cash value of most rental vehicles)

  
  

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card pricing

The card carries a $95 annual fee. The ongoing APR ranges from 19.99% to 28.24% variable, depending on your creditworthiness. Consequently, the annual fee is partially offset by the $50 annual hotel credit and the 10% anniversary points bonus on total yearly spending.

In essence, this card excels for travelers seeking instant access to credit along with premium travel benefits. The ability to earn and use rewards immediately after approval makes it especially valuable for those with urgent travel needs or upcoming large purchases.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Unlike many competitors, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card combines generous travel rewards with potential instant access capability, allowing qualified applicants to begin earning miles immediately after approval.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card key features

This travel-focused card offers several standout features for those seeking immediate card access:

• Limited-time offer: $250 travel credit plus 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months (equal to $1,000 in travel)

• Annual fee of $95

• Excellent credit recommended for approval

• No foreign transaction fees for international travelers

• Compatible with digital wallets for instant use

• Up to $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee

The card's simplified rewards structure makes it appealing for those who want to start earning rewards immediately without tracking complex bonus categories.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card instant use process

The instant access process for this card has specific requirements worth noting:

1. You must be an existing Capital One account holder

2. You need to have the Capital One mobile app installed

3. After approval, log into your Capital One app

4. Navigate to "Get Your Virtual Card" in the app

5. Add your new card to your preferred digital wallet

6. Begin making purchases immediately

Without these conditions, you'll need to wait 7-10 business days for your physical card to arrive. According to Capital One, online applicants typically receive approval decisions within 90 seconds, although some cases may take longer.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card rewards and benefits

Once you gain instant access, you can immediately begin earning toward the card's substantial rewards structure:

• Unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day

• Enhanced 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

• 5X miles on Capital One Entertainment purchases (through 12/31/25)

The miles you earn offer exceptional flexibility in redemption. Among the options:

• Book travel through Capital One Travel portal

• Cover recent travel purchases with statement credits (at 1 cent per mile value)

• Transfer to 15+ airline and hotel loyalty program partners

• Redeem for gift cards or cash back

• Pay for Amazon.com purchases

  
  

Beyond rewards, cardholders receive travel-focused benefits including Hertz Five Star status and a $50 experience credit on stays booked through the Capital One Lifestyle Collection.

For travelers seeking a card with potential instant use capability along with straightforward, valuable rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card represents an excellent option with its streamlined earning structure and flexible redemption paths.

American Express Gold Card

The American Express Gold Card combines premium dining rewards with instant use capabilities, making it an excellent choice for foodies who need immediate access to their credit line.

American Express Gold Card key features

The standout aspects of this food-focused card include:

• Welcome offer of 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 in the first six months

• 4X points at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year)

• 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year)

• 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel

• No foreign transaction fees

• Digital wallet compatibility with Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, PayPal, and Amazon Pay

  
  

American Express Gold Card instant use process

After approval, American Express immediately provides your card number if your identity can be verified. The simple process works as follows:

1. Apply online via desktop or mobile device (or via phone with customer service)

2. Receive your card number instantly upon approval

3. Add your new card to your preferred digital wallet

4. Begin making purchases immediately online or where digital wallets are accepted

Notably, the instant card number will be identical to your physical card, which arrives within 5-7 business days. However, the four-digit card identification number will differ, so avoid using it for recurring payments.

American Express Gold Card rewards and benefits

This card offers a comprehensive package of food and travel benefits worth over $400 annually:

• $120 annual dining credit ($10 monthly) at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys

• $120 Uber Cash ($10 monthly) for Uber Eats orders and Uber rides in the U.S.

• $100 Resy credit ($50 semi-annually) for dining at U.S. Resy restaurants

• $84 Dunkin' credit ($7 monthly) at U.S. Dunkin' locations

• $100 Hotel Collection credit for qualifying stays of two nights or more

In addition, cardholders receive travel protections including baggage insurance, car rental loss and damage insurance, and trip delay insurance.

American Express Gold Card pricing

The annual fee is $325. Subsequently, you can add up to five additional Gold Cards with no annual fee. The sixth and additional cards cost $35 each.

Given that the combined annual statement credits total over $400, regular users can effectively offset the annual fee by maximizing these benefits.

American Express Gold Card best for

This card is ideal for dining enthusiasts who value instant access combined with premium food-related rewards. Specifically, it suits those who:

• Frequently dine out or order takeout

• Regularly shop at U.S. supermarkets

• Will use the monthly dining credits consistently

• Travel occasionally and value comprehensive travel protection

• Need immediate card access for urgent food or travel purchases

First and foremost, if you spend approximately $4,063 or more annually on dining and groceries, you'll earn enough rewards to offset the annual fee before even factoring in the statement credits.

Chase Freedom Unlimited

The Chase Freedom Unlimited offers instant use capabilities without an annual fee, making it an attractive option for those seeking immediate access to credit without premium card costs.

Chase Freedom Unlimited key features

This versatile cash back card stands out with several noteworthy features:

• $0 annual fee that never changes

• Welcome bonus of $250 after spending $500 in the first 3 months from account opening

• 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% to 28.49% applies

• No expiration on rewards as long as your account remains open

• No minimum redemption amount for cash back

• Compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay

For new applicants, the Freedom Unlimited delivers value immediately through its intro APR offer and instant digital wallet compatibility, allowing you to start earning rewards right away.

Chase Freedom Unlimited instant use process

Getting instant access to your card requires following these simple steps:

1. Apply online and receive approval

2. Download the Chase Mobile app if you don't already have it

3. Log into the app with your Chase credentials

4. Navigate to your new card account

5. Scroll down to "Account Services" and select "Digital Wallets"

6. Choose your preferred digital wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay)

7. Add your new card to begin making purchases immediately

Initially, your digital card works exactly like a physical card for online purchases and contactless payments, empowering you to access benefits sooner.

Chase Freedom Unlimited rewards and benefits

The tiered rewards structure offers generous earning potential:

• 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel

• 3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery

• 3% cash back on drugstore purchases

• 1.5% cash back on all other purchases

• Additional 5% back on Lyft rides through March 31, 2025

Besides earning rewards, you'll receive valuable protection benefits:

• Purchase protection against damage or theft up to $500 per claim for 120 days after purchase

• Trip cancelation/interruption insurance up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip

• Extended warranty protection extending eligible manufacturer's warranties by one year

• Auto rental collision damage waiver when you decline the rental company's insurance

• Zero liability protection against unauthorized charges

Correspondingly, rewards earned can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits, gift cards, or travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Furthermore, pairing this card with a premium Chase card like the Sapphire Preferred can increase point values when transferring points between accounts.

Citi Custom Cash Card

For those seeking a no-annual-fee option with instant use potential, the Citi Custom Cash Card offers a clever twist on the traditional cash back model by automatically adapting to your spending habits each billing cycle.

Citi Custom Cash Card key features

This versatile card stands out with several noteworthy attributes:

• Welcome bonus of $200 cash back after spending $1,500 in the first 6 months (fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou Points)

• No annual fee

• 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (then variable 18.24%-28.24% APR)

• Automatic category adjustment based on spending patterns

• Special travel offer: Additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2026

  
  

Citi Custom Cash Card instant use process

Nevertheless, the instant access experience varies by applicant:

1. Apply online and receive approval decision

2. Some approved applicants are eligible for instant card number access

3. If eligible, you'll have one opportunity to view your temporary account information

4. Access a portion of your credit limit immediately until physical card arrives

5. Otherwise, wait 7-10 business days for physical card delivery

Additionally, cardholders can request virtual account numbers for online purchases through Citi Virtual Account Numbers service for enhanced security.

Citi Custom Cash Card rewards and benefits

Primarily, this card's value comes from its adaptive rewards structure:

• 5% cash back on your top eligible spending category each billing cycle (up to $500 spent, then 1%)

• 1% cash back on all other purchases

• Eligible 5% categories include: restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, select travel, select transit, select streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs, and live entertainment

Rewards are earned as ThankYou Points, redeemable for cash back as statement credits, direct deposits, checks, gift cards, travel, or at Amazon.com.

Citi Custom Cash Card pricing

In contrast to premium cards with hefty fees:

• $0 annual fee

• Variable APR of 18.24% to 28.24% after intro period

• Balance transfer fee: $5 or 5% of the transfer amount, whichever is greater

• Foreign transaction fee: 3%

Ultimately, this card is ideal for consumers seeking a no-fee option with instant use potential who want to maximize rewards in their highest spending category each month without manual category activation.

Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express

With zero annual fee and immediate access capabilities, the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express provides budget-conscious consumers an opportunity to start earning cashback rewards instantly upon approval.

Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express key features

This everyday spending card offers several standout benefits:

• $0 annual fee that stays consistent year after year

• Welcome offer of $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months

• 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, followed by a variable APR of 20.24%-29.24%

• No minimum redemption amount for cash back

• Cash back received as Reward Dollars redeemable as statement credits or at Amazon.com checkout

  
  

Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express instant use process

Accessing this card immediately after approval involves a straightforward process:

1. Apply online through desktop or mobile (or via phone with customer service)

2. Upon approval, eligible applicants receive an instant card number

3. You'll get your 15-digit card number, a temporary four-digit card identification number, and an expiration date

4. Add your new card to digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, PayPal, or Amazon Pay

5. Begin using your card immediately for online purchases or where digital wallets are accepted

First and foremost, your physical card will arrive in the mail within 5-7 business days, yet you can start shopping immediately with the instant card number.

Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express rewards and benefits

The tiered rewards structure prioritizes everyday spending:

• 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%)

• 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%)

• 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%)

• 1% cash back on all other purchases

Indeed, cardholders also enjoy monthly statement credits, including $7 back each month after spending $9.99+ on eligible Disney Bundle subscriptions (enrollment required). Additionally, approval time ranges from minutes to 10 business days, with many applicants receiving instant decisions.

Bilt Mastercard

The Bilt Mastercard stands out as the only credit card that allows you to earn rewards on rent payments without transaction fees, making it a game-changer for renters seeking instant card access.

Bilt Mastercard key features

Firstly, this Wells Fargo-issued card offers remarkable value with:

• $0 annual fee that remains consistent year after year

• No transaction fees for rent payments (up to 100,000 points annually)

• No foreign transaction fees for international purchases

• Requirement to make at least 5 transactions each statement period to earn points

• Double points on "Rent Day" (first day of month) up to 1,000 bonus points

  
  

Bilt Mastercard instant use process

Upon approval, the card delivers immediate access through a streamlined process:

1. Apply online (decisions typically received in less than 30 seconds)

2. View your full card number immediately within the Bilt Rewards app

3. Add the card to your mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.)

4. Start using instantly while waiting for physical card (typically arrives in 3 days)

   
   

Bilt Mastercard rewards and benefits

The tiered rewards structure delivers substantial value:

• 5x points on Lyft rides when accounts are linked

• 3x points on dining purchases

• 2x points on travel booked directly with airlines, hotels, car rentals

• 1x points on rent payments (up to 100,000 points per calendar year)

• 1x points on all other purchases

Even more, cardholders receive premium travel protections typically found on cards with annual fees:

• Primary auto rental collision damage waiver (except in NY)

• Trip cancelation/interruption coverage up to $5,000

• Trip delay reimbursement ($200/day for delays over 6 hours)

• Cell phone protection up to $800 (with $25 deductible)

  
  

Bilt Mastercard pricing

At last, this card maintains a straightforward pricing structure with:

• $0 annual fee

• No transaction fees for rent payments

• No foreign transaction fees

Wells Fargo Autograph Card

As a solid choice for everyday spenders, the Bilt Mastercard offers several compelling benefits despite falling short in the instant access department.

Wells Fargo Autograph Card key features

The Autograph Card comes packed with consumer-friendly features:

• $0 annual fee that remains constant year after year

• Welcome bonus of 20,000 points ($200 cash value) when spending $1,000 in the first 3 months

• 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months, then variable 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% APR

• No foreign transaction fees for international purchases

• Minimum credit limit of $1,000

  
  

Wells Fargo Autograph Card instant use process

Unfortunately, the Wells Fargo Autograph Card does not support instant digital access upon approval:

• No temporary card numbers are provided after approval

• Physical card typically arrives within 7-10 days of approval

• After receiving your physical card, you can generate temporary numbers through Click to Pay on the Visa network

• Some approved users report seeing a Visa Signature logo when adding to Apple Wallet

For immediate spending needs, you'll need to wait until your plastic card arrives in the mail, making this a less ideal option for those requiring immediate access to credit.

Wells Fargo Autograph Card rewards and benefits

Where this card truly shines is its rewards structure and protection benefits:

• Earn 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, EV charging stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans

• 1X points on all other purchases

• Points worth 1 cent each when redeemed for statement credits, travel, or gift cards

• Cellphone protection up to $600 per claim against damage or theft when paying your monthly bill with the card (subject to $25 deductible, max two claims per year)

• Auto rental collision damage waiver

• Travel and emergency assistance services

• Roadside dispatch for 24/7 emergency assistance

• Visa Signature perks including concierge service and Luxury Hotel Collection privileges

Despite its lack of instant access capabilities, the card offers exceptional everyday value with its boosted rewards on common spending categories and comprehensive protection benefits.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

In today's fast-paced world, waiting days for a physical credit card can feel unnecessarily restrictive. After examining the top instant-use credit cards available in 2025, it's clear that several major issuers now recognize this pain point and offer impressive solutions. The Platinum Card from American Express and American Express Gold Card stand out with their consistent instant card number provision upon approval. Alternatively, Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and Chase Freedom Unlimited offer digital wallet integration immediately after approval.

Choosing the right instant-use card ultimately depends on your specific financial priorities. Premium travel enthusiasts will likely benefit most from The Platinum Card from American Express or Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, despite their annual fees. However, fee-conscious consumers should consider the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express or Bilt Mastercard for instant access without ongoing costs.

Beyond immediate access, these cards offer substantial long-term value through their rewards structures and additional benefits. The most generous welcome bonuses—like 100,000 points from Chase Sapphire Preferred Card—become even more attainable with the extra time provided by instant card access.

During emergencies or time-sensitive opportunities, these instant-use options deliver peace of mind and financial flexibility. Though not every card offers consistent instant access, the market continues to evolve toward more consumer-friendly policies. We strongly recommend exploring these nine credit cards with instant use capabilities to find the perfect match for your spending habits and financial goals.

FAQs

Q1. What are the best credit cards with instant use capabilities in 2025? Some top options include The Platinum Card from American Express, Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, and American Express Gold Card. These cards offer immediate access to your credit line upon approval, allowing you to start making purchases right away.

Q2. How does instant card access work for credit cards? Instant card access typically involves receiving your card number immediately after approval. You can then add this number to digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay to make purchases before your physical card arrives. Some issuers also provide temporary card numbers for online transactions.

Q3. Are there any no-annual-fee credit cards that offer instant use? Yes, several no-annual-fee cards offer instant use capabilities. Examples include the Chase Freedom Unlimited, Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express, and the Bilt Mastercard. These cards allow you to start earning rewards immediately without incurring an annual fee.

Q4. What are the benefits of having a credit card with instant use? Instant use credit cards provide immediate spending power, allowing you to make urgent purchases or take advantage of time-sensitive offers. They also give you a head start on earning welcome bonuses and rewards, potentially adding weeks to your earning period before the physical card arrives.

Q5. Can I use an instant access credit card for all types of purchases? While instant access credit cards can be used for many purchases, there may be some limitations. They work well for online transactions and in-store purchases using mobile wallets. However, you may need to wait for your physical card to arrive for certain transactions that require the actual card, such as at some gas stations or ATMs.