Finding the Right Credit Card
Your mailbox is crammed full of credit card offers from a dozen companies. Different APRs, rewards programs, and credit card fees have your head swimming. But finding the right credit card is as simple as comparing a few characteristics of each offer you receive.
Five easy steps to choosing the right credit card
By following the five steps detailed below, you’ll be able to choose a credit card that meets your needs, saves you money, and can enhance your lifestyle with appealing credit card perks.
Step 1. Compare credit card APRs
The annual percentage rate (APR) of your credit card determines how much you’ll pay in interest when you use the card for purchases, cash advances, or balance transfers. The lower the APR, the better the deal from the credit card company and the more money you’ll save in the long run. Be sure to compare the APRs for purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers because every card comes with different interest rates for these transactions.
Step 2. Compare credit limit
The credit limit for your card will be based on your credit score and you won’t know what the precise limit will be unless you speak directly with the credit card company. Promotional offers usually list a range of potential limits, but these are not always good indicators for what your particular credit limit will be.
Step 3. Compare credit card fees
Any given credit card company may charge annual, over credit limit, cash advance, balance transfer, and late fees. You’ll find the amount of the fees listed in the terms and conditions sections of credit card offers.
Step 4. Compare credit card rewards program
Thanks to a wide array of credit card reward programs from credit card companies, you can earn travel vouchers, frequent flyer miles, merchandise, gift cards, discounts on car insurance, and even cash back bonuses with your card. The reward program you choose should best match your lifestyle and interests.
Step 5. Know your credit score
If you have a sterling credit report and a high credit score, you can expect a low APR, low fees, and a relatively high spending limit. Lower scores will usually allow you to obtain credit, but with a higher APR and lower spending limit.
You should examine every credit card offer you receive and compare it to other offers available. Comparison shopping is your primary tool in choosing the credit card that fits your needs.
