How to Find Different Credit Cards to Apply For

There are many different types of credit cards, from secured accounts for people who are trying to re-establish their credit to cards that offer cash back, airline miles or other special rewards. By knowing what you want or need and knowing where to look, you can apply for the credit cards that would be most beneficial for you.

Instructions

Finding Different Credit Cards

1. Decide what you want most in a credit card. If you have bad credit or have been through a bankruptcy, you may need to rebuild your credit rating. In this case, a secured card that is given to anyone willing to open a bank account would be the best option. If you have a good credit rating, you may be looking for the card with the best benefits. These can include no annual fee, cash back, airline miles or other rewards. If you want to transfer balances from high-interest cards, you'll want a new card with a low interest rate and the best introductory offer. Knowing what you're looking for will help you narrow down the specific cards for which you will apply.

2. Ask friends and family members for recommendations. When you see credit card ads, it can be hard to decipher the fine print. For example, a card with excellent rewards might have a high annual fee or interest rate that is not readily disclosed. A secured card might charge a high monthly fee. People who are already using the card can explain its requirements, pros and cons in simple terms.

3. Pay attention to junk mail from credit card issuers. If you normally throw away all the credit card offers you receive in the mail, start saving and comparing them. Some may be worthless, but you may find one that meets your needs. For example, even if you have bad credit, you may receive a preapproved offer for a card that doesn't require a security deposit. If you have good credit, you may receive several competing offers for cards with prime benefits. Compare the offers carefully and apply for the best ones.

4. Visit an online credit card comparison website. If your friends and family members don't have good recommendations, or if you don't get many offers in the mail, a website like Card Ratings can give you a wealth of information. Card Ratings lets you choose a specific category, like secured, cash back or rewards credit cards.

Tips & Warnings

• You may be able to negotiate more favorable terms from certain credit card companies. For example, if you want to apply for an airline rewards card but don't like the fact that it charges an annual fee, call them up and ask if they are willing to waive it. Often they will be willing to make a concession in order to win a new customer.

• Never pay money to anyone who promises to find you a credit card. You should always fill out an application yourself and submit it directly to the credit card issuer. Anyone who promises to find you a credit card for a fee will be taking your money for a worthless service. It may even be a setup for identity theft.

Resources

• Credit card comparison site.