Finding and Applying for the Right Credit Card Offer Online

Anywhere you go online nowadays, you will see a multitude of ads for credit cards. Some offer low interest rate for an introductory period, or bonus frequent flyer miles while others offer real discounts on new vehicles and equipment. Trying to find one that suits your needs and lifestyle can be a little overwhelming.

Before you dive on in, ask yourself some key questions about your needs:

1. What is my credit history situation?

The first and foremost question when applying for a credit card is going to be your credit rating. Have you had credit opportunities in the past, and if so, how have you handled them? Did you pay off the balances with timely payments, or did you fall behind? These are situations that your rating will be based on, so plan ahead and you'll be able to get the best credit card offer that you deserve.

2. What are my plans for the credit card?

If you plan to use your new credit card instead of cash (which is possible in todays world), you might want to look for one with a low ongoing interest rate (APR). This way, in case you don't pay off the balance within the interest free grace period, you aren't taxed too heavily with interest fees on the balance.

Or, maybe you only want to use the card in emergencies or special situations. In this case, look for a credit offer without an annual fee or membership dues. This way, you can stash the credit card away and not have to worry about missing any recurring 'administrative' fees.

3. Can my lifestyle or hobbies benefit my credit card search?

There are many credit card issuers teaming up with retailers and other businesses in the service industry. The benefit to you is that you earn rebates and discounts towards merchandise, products and services with each use of these "rewards" type credit cards.

For instance, travelers and vacationers might want to get an airline reward credit card that rewards use of the card with frequent flyer miles to use towards free flights and other guest services, or maybe a student might want a credit card that offers free school merchandise and athletic gear.

4. Can I reduce any debts with my new credit card?

Many credit cards offer great balance transfer benefits that allow you to bring most balances over and pay a fixed, low APR until the balance is paid off. These are great because you can consolidate most bills into one payment, saving you alot of money in interest fees.

5. Should I get a copy of my credit report, and if so, should I be paying for it?

This is a big issue going on in the news today. Identity theft and inaccurate credit reporting is a hot button that is circulating around the media and today's society. Keeping tabs and consistently monitoring your credit report is a smart idea in preventing fraud.

There are many offers on the web to get a copy of your credit report for free. It's important to read all the information before signing up for anything and make certain to check the company that is issuing the offer. There are only 3 credit reporting agencies in the United States; Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. You can contact and order your credit report from each one individually ($), or go with a reputable company that will get all 3 for you in one report.

In conclusion, remember that part of finding the right credit card for you is analyzing the situation you're currently in. With so many credit offers out there, you're sure to find one that can improve your lifestyle or benefit you in other ways. Always read all the information involved and make sure that the website you're exchanging private information with has a secure certificate (the gold lock) located on the bottom of your browser window.

Good luck and happy hunting.

This articles was written by Gus Garcia, owner of http://www.creditcardChoices.com, a free online service offering information about various credit card offers as well as links to credit card applications.

Click here to see all credit card offers available at creditcardChoices.com.

---

Understanding Your Credit Score

When you apply for credit one of the first things... Read More

Credit Score: The Brightest Feather In Your Financial Cap

Credit scores are the most important aspect that determines your... Read More

Harassment of People in Debt by Creditors

HarassmentHarassment of people in debt by creditors or their agents... Read More

Credit Cards and How To Choose Them:

It may seem like a simple question but its important... Read More

3 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score by 50 Points In Less Than 30 Days

In Less Than 30 Days. "What can you do to... Read More

Can You Acquire Good Credit Overnight? You Bet

Your credit file may not reflect all your credit accounts.... Read More

Credit Worthiness

Credit Worthiness is an important business and personal asset each... Read More

How a Credit Card Can Be Your Friend

We have all heard countless stories of people over their... Read More

Important Things to Know About Divorce and Credit

Joint debts remain joint debts.Both spouses signed a legally binding... Read More

Credit Card Debt: One Way To Avoid It

One of the biggest problems people have in these modern... Read More

Like It Or Not, You Have A Score To Settle!

Like It Or Not, You Have A Score To Settle!... Read More

Credit Cards - The Basics

How Lenders Operate ? And How They'll Make a Tidy... Read More

Credit Cards -- What You Should Know

There are a lot of questions about using credit cards.... Read More

Credit Report Secrets: Do You Know What They Reveal?

If you've ever applied for a credit card or loan,... Read More

How A Prepaid Debit Card Can Help You Rebuild Your Credit

Consumers today are up to their eyeballs in debt. And... Read More

Sound Advice For First Time Credit Card Users

If you are just entering the world of credit cards,... Read More

ChexSystems: Who They Are and How it Affects You

ChexSystems is a company that maintains a subscriber membership service... Read More

The Credit Card Surprise That You Need to Look Out For

Companies that issue credit cards want to make a profit.... Read More

Identity Theft : They Got Him

His hard earned money? Gone. Creditors on his back everyday.... Read More

Annual Credit Report and Free Annual Credit Report

Getting an annual credit report review has been the advice... Read More

Debit Card vs. Credit Card, What Are The Differences ?

Ah, the "good old days". If you are a baby... Read More

Legislators Ponder New Credit Protection Laws

Legislators in Washington, D.C. are considering several credit-related consumer protections... Read More

Rewards Cards: Are They Worth It?

Virtually all consumers will have a credit card at some... Read More

Get Your Credit Score To Soar In The Twinkling of An Eye

Ever wonder how a creditor decides whether to grant you... Read More

It Is In Your Best Interest To Do The Math On Your Credit Card Interest

If you begin foaming at the mouth once a month... Read More

A No-Brainer Way Of Getting Credit And Credit Cards

What Is Your Credit Rating Now?If you have any charge... Read More

Credit Card Shocker

Have you ever looked at your credit card statement? I'm... Read More

Learn About Prepaid Credit Card

Prepaid credit cards also called stored value card can be... Read More

Choosing the Right Credit Counseling Agency for You ? Some Tips Part 2

Credit counseling companies come in all shapes and sizes. Whether... Read More

When You Are Eligible For A Free Credit Report

By Federal law, you are entitled to one free credit... Read More

Credit Card Companies Are Out for Your Money

You're probably thinking "Tell me something I don't know" but... Read More

Identity Theft - Dont Think You Are Immune

As identity theft becomes more prevalent, the need to regularly... Read More

ChexSystems: Alternative Options for People Whove Been Checking Accounts

Individual banks elect to become members of ChexSystems, and to... Read More