In this day and age, plastic rules, not just because of convenience and safety features but also because of the opportunities for rewards and rebates that many competitive credit card companies offer. You no longer have to look too hard for credit card offers because they will find you. The only question is how to pick one that will give you the best deal. If this is your current dilemma, here are some simple tips to help you narrow down your choice:
Never go random.
When there are so many credit card offers out there that seem to offer the same things, it can be tempting to just sign up for whatever card comes along. This is not a good way of taking advantage of credit card offers. Never pick a credit card based some random advertisement, a recommendation, pressure from the credit card company or a purchase emergency.
Consider what you'll use it for.
While a credit card can give you a semblance of financial freedom, it is still a form of debt, that's why it's called a credit card. Before you decide on a credit card offer, think about what you'll need to use it for and how often you think you'll be using it.
Say for example you're the type who likes to frequent a certain establishment and usually use credit for your purchases, you might want to consider a credit card from that store if they're offering one. That credit card will often carry with it a lot of great discounts, rewards, cash rebates and special privileges when used with that establishment.
Look for range.
Generally, the more locations you can use your credit card with, the better, so you might want to choose a credit card that can be used both nationally or internationally. If you don't see yourself leaving your locality for a long time, regional credit cards will work well for you.
Go for low interest rates.
When you're finding the best card among your credit card offers, look for one that has the low interest rates. Rates vary depending on the credit card company and sometimes, on the card itself, so it will be advantageous for you if you compared rates.
Low interest rates will be a good choice for you if you're the type of consumer who prefers to pay for your credit card purchases on an installment basis, with payments spread out for several months. That way, you won't be saddled with high monthly payments and end up paying more.
Other fees and features
Annual fees and penalties are another thing to watch out for when you're considering credit card offers. There are also corresponding fees for other transactions such as balance transfers and cash advances. You might also want to check what features come with a credit card, such as rebates, rewards programs, discounts, warranties and even insurance.
Mind the fine print.
The fine print can be deceiving, so make sure you read it before signing up. You might be attracted to one credit card because of the low interest rates only to find out later that the rates are part of an introductory offer and that you'll be saddled with a much higher APR after only a few months. A credit card offer is only as good as the fine print, so choose well.
Take charge.
You don't have to be passive about your credit card choice nor do you need o be stuck with what's being offered to you. Write down what your needs are and what kind of features you'd want in a credit card. Next, pick up the phone and ask several credit card companies for their best offers. If you take a more proactive role in choosing your credit card, you're more likely to find one that will fit you best.
Credit Card Special Offers
With or without an existing credit history, good or bad, you're sure to be approached by someone with a credit card offer. And although all credit card offers seem wonderfully tempting, it's usually the case that you're only suitable to a particular type. To know which credit card offer is really meant for you, here's what you should know.
Tips on How to Know If a Credit Card is for You
KNOW THYSELF – More importantly, know why you'd want and need a credit card in the first place. Consider the side of necessity first: how can a credit card help make your life better? Is there a way for a credit card to help you become more financially solvent? Next, think about the pleasant side of the fence – what perks would you wish to enjoy from using a credit card?
Lastly, take a good look of yourself and make a self-evaluation by asking these questions: Am I ready for the responsibility of having a credit card? Do I really know what I'm getting myself into? Can I promise to myself to pay my credit card bills promptly?
KNOW HOW OTHERS THINK OF YOU – The “others” in this part refers to the banks and creditors that you have transacted with in the past. If you have any bills or loans to pay, those can already serve as your credit background and may be one of the reasons that you're given credit card offers that you don't really find desirable.
If, however, you don't have any existing credit records, this isn't exactly a good thing either unless you're a fresh graduate. That's understandable, of course, because you've just entered the real world. If, however, you're already an adult, you should at least have a reliable and steady source of income. Without it, the types of credit card offers you can expect to receive are sure to be limited.
KNOW ITS RANGE – Some credit cards can only be used in specified stores or limited to a certain region in the United States. If, however, you receive credit card offers for Visa or Mastercard, these will allow you to use your credit card even if you're abroad.
Cards with well-known names like Visa or Mastercard are definitely suitable for people who travel often or intend to use their cards in a variety of establishments. These cards, however, imposes stricter application requirements that what you'd expect from credit cards with a smaller scope.
KNOW ITS AFFILIATES – Some credit cards offer special interest rates and other kinds of perks and privileges if you're affiliated with a particular association or company so do make sure that you ask the person who made the credit card offer about this. You might even be able to choose a specialized design for your credit card if you happen to satisfy any of their stipulations regarding this matter.
Now that you know what type of credit card offer is right for you, there are only two other things left to do:
Firstly, take the necessary action to verify whether the credit card representative that approached you is really an employee or agent of the issuing company and that he's really providing you a legitimate credit card offer.
Secondly, be prepared to spend a bit of time and effort to satisfy the application requirements for the credit card offer you've chosen to take up. You'll have to furnish the credit card company with documentary evidence of your income and credit history. But after that, the credit card's all yours to swipe!
Both Mario Churchill & Mario R. Churchill are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Mario Churchill has sinced written about articles on various topics from Credit Cards, Anger Control and Credit Cards. Mario Churchill is a freelance author and has written over 200 articles on various subjects. Checkout his information on credit card offers or. Mario Churchill's top article generates over 246000 views. Bookmark Mario Churchill to your Favourites.
Mario R. Churchill has sinced written about articles on various topics from Credit Cards, Credit Card Offers and Credit Cards. Mario Churchill is a sales person and website owner. He manages a website, http://www.usa-credit-card-guide.com where you can find the best credit card offer fo. Mario R. Churchill's top article generates over 246000 views. Bookmark Mario R. Churchill to your Favourites.
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