Benefits of the Union Bank IRCTC Credit Card

• Significant Savings on Train Travel: The most prominent benefit of the Union Bank IRCTC Credit Card is its ability to deliver significant savings on train travel. With 40 reward points per ₹100 spent on IRCTC bookings, cardholders can accumulate points rapidly, which can be redeemed for train tickets, gift vouchers, or other rewards. For example, booking a ₹10,000 AC1 ticket could yield 4,000 reward points, equivalent to ₹1,000 in value (assuming 1 reward point = ₹0.25). This high reward rate makes the card an excellent choice for frequent travelers who book tickets through the IRCTC platform. Additionally, the 1% transaction charge waiver on IRCTC bookings reduces the cost of each ticket, providing immediate savings. For a family booking multiple tickets monthly, this can result in savings of hundreds of rupees annually. These savings are particularly impactful for long-distance travelers or those who book premium classes like AC1 or Executive Chair Car, where ticket prices and transaction fees are higher.

How to Apply for the Union Bank IRCTC Credit Card

• Offline Application Process:
  • Step 1: Visit a Union Bank Branch – Locate and visit the nearest Union Bank of India branch. Request the IRCTC Credit Card application form from the bank staff.
  • Step 2: Prepare Required Documents – Carry self-attested copies of identity proof, address proof, income proof, and passport/visa for NRIs if applicable.
  • Step 3: Fill Out the Form – Enter accurate personal, employment, financial, and residential details in the form. Specify the card variant if applicable.
  • Step 4: Submit Documents – Submit the filled form along with the required documents. Originals may be required for verification purposes.
  • Step 5: Verification Process – The bank will verify the details through credit score checks, telephonic verification, and possibly field verification.
  • Step 6: Application Status Tracking – Track your application by calling 8885545255 or visiting the branch.
• Card Delivery & Activation:
  • Upon approval, the card is delivered to your registered address within 7–10 working days.
  • Activation Methods:
    • SMS: Send “CARDACKW” followed by the last 4 digits of the card to the official number from your registered mobile.
    • Portal: Visit unioncards.unionbankofindia.co.in and complete activation.
• Alternative Channels (For Existing Customers):
  • Log in to Union Bank net banking.
  • Check for pre-approved offers under the credit card section.
  • Apply by uploading documents if eligible (this option may not be available for all IRCTC variants).
• Tips for a Successful Application:
  • Ensure you meet eligibility (age, income, credit score, employment status).
  • Provide accurate, consistent, and up-to-date details and documents.
  • Respond promptly to verification calls or document requests.
  • Avoid submitting multiple applications at once to protect your credit score.
• Common Challenges and Solutions:
  • Low Credit Score: Improve by paying off dues or consider secured card against FD.
  • Document Mismatch: Ensure all form entries match your supporting documents.
  • Delayed Processing: Follow up with the branch or customer care to check status.
  • Limited Availability Online: If online application isn’t available, use offline route via nearest branch.

Eligibility Criteria for the Union Bank IRCTC Credit Card

• Age Requirements:
  • Primary Cardholder: Must be between 21 and 70 years of age at the time of application.
  • Add-On Cardholder: Minimum age of 18 years.
• Income Requirements:
  • Salaried Individuals: Minimum annual income of ₹3.6 lakh (may vary by card variant).
  • Self-Employed Individuals: Minimum annual income of ₹4.8 lakh, supported by recent ITRs.
  • Secured Card Option: Available against a fixed deposit with a 25% margin; no income proof or high credit score required.
• Credit Score and History:
  • Preferred credit score is above 750 for higher approval chances.
  • Applicants with a low or no credit history may be considered for lower credit limits or secured card options.
  • Good repayment history and low credit utilization are important approval factors.
• Nationality and Residency:
  • Applicants must be Indian residents or NRIs with valid Indian address and documentation.
  • NRIs must submit documents such as passport, visa, and Indian address proof or NRI account details.
• Employment Status:
  • Salaried: Minimum one year of continuous employment with a reputed organization.
  • Self-Employed: Must show consistent income with valid financial documents like ITRs and business financials.
  • Priority: May be given to applicants from government, PSU, or established private sector companies.
• Other Eligibility Factors:
  • Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): A DTI below 40% is preferred.
  • Credit Utilization Ratio: Should be below 30% for optimal chances.
  • Existing Loans/Cards: Applicants with multiple loans or credit cards may face additional scrutiny.
• Key Tips to Improve Eligibility:
  • Maintain or improve your credit score through timely repayments.
  • Provide accurate and verifiable income documents, including secondary income sources.
  • Maintain stable employment history or long-standing business performance.
  • Lower your outstanding liabilities to reduce your DTI ratio.
  • Avoid submitting multiple credit applications simultaneously.