A "credit application" is a form to be completed by an applicant for a loan, credit card, or credit account, giving sufficient details to establish the applicant's creditworthiness. Banks typically expect a credit application in connection with a request for a mortgage, and sometimes impose a fee for processing of the application and the mortgage. Credit applications are also requested of a prospective customer in order for a seller of goods to determine the creditworthiness of the prospective customer. It allows the seller to make an informed decision as to whether or not to extend credit to the prospective customer. Typical questions included in credit applications include:

• Name, address & Federal Tax ID or Social Security number
• Financial information
• Trade references
• Bank references
• Past bankruptcies