90, 91, 95 Days
 

When applying for credit cards, I have seen a guideline of waiting a set period of time so that the previous hard inquiries have a diminished effect on your credit record. I have seen 90, 91, or 95 thrown around. Is there a benefit in waiting 95 days as opposed to 90 days?

I think you are mixing the citi app "rule of thumb" for non AA cards with app "rule of thumb". The citi "rule" is that citi allows apps every 90 days, but best to wait for 95 ish as Citi is reportedly known for not counting exactly 90 days, i.e. sometimes it's 91 or 92 and if you apply to early, it's a denial.

I've read the 90 day app "rule" a bunch, but I'm not willing and have no need to be that aggressive. It seems to me that waiting another week, ie. to 95 days so that you encompass both "rules" is simply not that difficult.

Better safe than sorry.

If you stagger the banks you can apply for ONE new card each month. Say Chase, then CITI, then AMEX, etc. Many prefer to do 2, 3 or 4 apps. every quarter (91-92 days). Much of your success will also depend on your income, usage, credit history, etc, etc. So, no hard & fast rules. I know, from experience, what Chase will allow me to do. But that info is of no use to anyone else because all our circumstances are different. :) Best of luck!

I think the 90 days is important with Citi more so than most other credit card companies. When it comes to Chase it's more about what your relationship is with that bank. Balance, credit line, payment history, etc. If you establish a good relationship I don't think it matters when you apply for cards. However... it probably makes more sense to spread them out quarterly because it is easier to explain the credit "hits" every few months vs. monthly. Of course this is just my opinion...