The content is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change.

With so many different options available in the market, choosing the right credit card can be an overwhelming process for a credit card newbie. There are so many things to think about before choosing a credit card, so often making the right choice can be difficult.

The first step is to determine why you need a credit card and what features do you want your card to have. Streamlining priorities is very important since every card offers a different feature and having them all in one card can cost some annual fee. Getting approved for a credit card depends a lot on your credit of FICO score and getting a reject on your application canoe cause you a low credit score. Knowing what your credit score is can help you a long way in applying for the right credit cards. Get a credit report and find out what your score is, before applying for the card. There are different set of credit cards for different credit scores, so use the internet to get your options.

Once you search for cards based on your credit scores, the next step is to compare the cards with respect to features they offer. First thing to consider is the annual fee for the credit card. Try and sign up for a card that has no annual fee. This way, all the benefits you receive from the card will be yours to keep and you don`t have to pay a fee for it. If you get an option with no annual fee, then the next thing to consider is the reward programs.

Many reward programs and incentives are available on your cards, but when you are choosing the card, think about the long term reward programs rather than the joining perks. Make sure that you get at least one reward program ongoing until you hold the credit card. Whatever reward program that works for you should be the one that is offered to you throughout. Check if there are flexibilities and no fees for balance transfer program. If not now, having a safe option for later days is always good. Also check if your credit card provides insurance options, since it is a good way to save a lot of money.

After you have narrowed down your card, the next step is to apply for the card. Once you complete all the formal procedures, your card will be delivered to you through mail. You will have to call the number provided on the card to activate it, before using it.

Disclaimer: This editorial content is not provided or commissioned by the credit card issuer(s). Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of the credit card issuer(s), and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer(s). Reasonable efforts are made to present accurate information, however all information is presented without warranty. Consult a card's issuing bank for the terms & conditions.
All rates and fees, and other terms and conditions of the products mentioned in this article/post are actual as of the last update date but are subject to change. See the current products' Terms & Conditions on the issuing banks' websites.