Applying for credit while in the military: Employer Information?

[migo13]

I just commissioned, and I'm stuck in the IRR while waiting for AD orders. I have several questions about applying for credit. Hopefully those who are serving or have served can enlighten me.

I've noticed that on some credit card applications employer name is required. For tax purposes, I believe employer name is listed as DFAS.

1. Should I write DFAS or my branch of service?

2. What address do I use?

3. What phone number do I use? 

I was hoping I could apply for a couple of cards, then garden during BOLC (OBC). But if they need the address of where my unit is, commander's name, etc. I will not be able to provide that because I don't have a unit yet. Anyone?

[iMacDrew]

For me i just put employer as USMC and the address as Unit/ camp Lejeune NC. I dont think that part matters nearly as much as your home address. and phone number i put as my office number down where i work. Theyve never called.

if youre in the inactive reserves waiting to go active... what are you putting down as your income?

[migo13]

500/month from other sources. 

Would I be better off using my projected income?

[iMacDrew]

How bad do you need a cc? Ive heard of instances where banks and credit unions ask for paystubs to verify income. If youre going to get orders soon, I would but if youre unsure of orders have you looked into getting a secured credit card.. do you have any money saved?

[iMacDrew]

also look into military credit unions like Penfed and Navyfed.. youre more than likely going to get accepted for a Navy Federal card though as Penfeds underwriting criteria is more strict.

[migo13]

I don't need a credit card bad at all, just eager to rebuild. I'm probably better off waiting until orders come in though, at least then I'll have some sort of documentation and could perhaps explain the situation and apply over the phone. I do have a Capital One secured card that I can add money to, but I was hoping to replace it with a prime w/o an annual fee.

[migo13]

---

@iMacDrew wrote:

also look into military credit unions like Penfed and Navyfed.. youre more than likely going to get accepted for a Navy Federal card though as Penfeds underwriting criteria is more strict.

---

I definitely want to apply for Navy Fed, but I was waiting until I had orders so I could list AD on the application. 

[iMacDrew]

just go with what youre making, there no sense waiting imo. were you prior enlisted or just straight commisioned? 

[migo13]

What I'm making as in the 500/month?

Just straight commissioned, no prior service.

[iMacDrew]

naw like the base pay, bah where you may be stationed. theres a lot to it.