Job Application Asks Candidates to Get a Credit Card Before Interview – A Concerning Trend?

Imagine applying for your dream job, going through the usual process of submitting your resume, and then - out of nowhere - you’re told you need to get a credit card before the interview. Sounds bizarre, right? Yet, this is exactly what some job seekers are experiencing.

A recent viral story has exposed a controversial hiring practice where companies are allegedly asking candidates to apply for a credit card as a prerequisite for an interview.

The question is: Is this a red flag, a scam, or an emerging corporate trend?

Let’s take a deep dive into what’s happening and what it means for job seekers.

Why Are Some Companies Asking for a Credit Card?

There are a few reasons why a company might ask candidates to open a credit account before an interview—some legitimate, others highly questionable. Here’s a breakdown:

1?? Commission-Based Sales Jobs

?? Some companies, especially in sales or finance roles, claim that having a credit card is necessary for "understanding financial products" or "demonstrating financial responsibility."

?? Red flag: A credit card doesn’t define financial literacy, and no legitimate job should require one just to be considered.

2?? Background & Credit Checks

?? Some employers conduct credit history checks for roles related to finance, banking, or security-sensitive positions.

?? Red flag: Even if a job requires financial background checks, it should never require you to open a new line of credit.

3?? Job Scam or Exploitative Practice?

?? The most concerning possibility—companies partnering with financial institutions to push credit card applications under the guise of employment opportunities.

?? Major red flag: If a company insists on this requirement without clear justification, it could be a scam designed to profit from referral incentives.

The Ethical & Legal Implications

?? Is It Even Legal? In many countries, hiring practices that discriminate based on credit history or financial status could violate labor laws. Employers must have a clear, job-related reason to check a candidate’s credit background.

?? Potential for Discrimination Lower-income candidates, those recovering from financial difficulties, or individuals avoiding credit for personal reasons could be excluded from opportunities. This creates an unequal hiring process based on financial privilege.

?? Data Privacy & Security Risks Some job scams collect credit card details under the false promise of employment. Once an applicant shares sensitive data, it could be misused for identity theft, financial fraud, or unauthorized transactions.

What Should Job Seekers Do?

?? If an employer asks you to apply for a credit card before an interview, consider these steps:

?? Question the Requirement – Ask why this is necessary and how it relates to the job role. A legitimate employer should provide a clear and logical explanation.

?? Research the Company – Check reviews on platforms like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Reddit to see if other candidates have reported similar experiences.

?? Never Share Financial Details – No recruiter should ever ask for your credit card number, banking details, or SSN (unless required for legal background checks).

?? Trust Your Instincts – If something feels off, walk away. A job that starts with financial pressure is rarely worth it.

Final Thoughts – A Trend We Shouldn’t Normalize

As the job market evolves, we’re seeing new hiring practices emerge - some beneficial, others outright exploitative. Asking candidates to open a credit card before an interview isn’t just unethical - it’s a serious red flag that should be scrutinized and challenged.

If this becomes a widespread trend, it could unfairly limit access to jobs and exploit vulnerable job seekers. Instead of allowing financial gatekeeping in hiring, companies should focus on skills, experience, and merit.

?? What’s your take on this? Would you apply for a job that asked for a credit card? Let’s discuss!