In Store

• 1). Visit a JC Penney store location and apply for instant credit at any register. Find a store in your area by visiting the JC Penney website and click "Find a Store" at the top. Enter your address including the city, state, zip code and click "Search" at the bottom of the page. Choose a store from the list of stores near you.
  
  
• 2). Complete the application with your personal information, including your name, address and other financial information. Include your social security number and banking information for verification.
  
  
• 3). Give your completed application to the sales associate to process while you're in the store. The associate will enter your information or call the credit department to process your application.
  
  
• 4). Get the results of the application from the sales associate. Take the temporary paper card with the credit card number, if your application receives approval. Use this number to shop until you receive a permanent card in the mail.
  
  
• 5). Wait 7 to 10 business days to receive your JC Penney credit card in the mail. You will receive an explanation in the mail in 7 to 10 business days if JC Penney denies your application.
  
  

Online

• 1). Go to the JC Penney official website and click "Credit Card" at the bottom of the page. The link takes you to the JC Penney credit card rewards site.
  
  
• 2). Click "Apply Now" at the top of the page toward the left, between the "Home" and "My Account" links.
  
  
• 3). Complete the online application by filling in your name, address and other personal information like your total income, banking information, social security number and driver's license number.
  
  
• 4). Click "Submit" and wait for a response telling you whether or not your application receives approval. You will receive your credit card in the mail, if approved, or a denial letter in 7 to 10 days.