Reach into your wallet, swipe, and you're done. Using a credit card is easy. Choosing one is where people get into trouble, and it has nothing to do with the picture on the front.
1. Be honest about how you'll pay
If you'll pay the full balance every month, the interest rate barely matters, so focus on rewards and fees. If you might carry a balance, the interest rate is the most important number, and rewards come second.
2. Know where your credit stands
Card approvals depend mostly on your credit score. Check your credit reports for free at AnnualCreditReport.com and fix any errors before applying.
3. Pick the card type
Match the card to your goal: cash back for everyday spending, travel rewards if you travel, a 0% balance transfer card to pay down debt, or a secured card to build credit. Our card guide covers each type.
4. Read the fine print
Look at the annual fee, the rate after any intro period, late fees, balance transfer fees and foreign transaction fees. Issuers must show these in a summary table on the application, sometimes called the "Schumer box."
5. Apply for one card at a time
Each application can cause a small, temporary dip in your score. Apply for the card you actually want instead of several at once.
Today's Credit Cards is an independent educational site. We are not a bank, lender or financial advisor, and nothing here is financial or legal advice. Card terms change often, so always confirm current rates, fees and benefits with the card issuer. Some links may earn us a commission; see our advertiser disclosure.