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When you're getting ready to apply for a credit card, it can be helpful to know what makes a good credit card. What's far more often overlooked are the things to watch out for - the things that make a bad credit card. Before you apply for a credit card, make sure you recognize the following credit card mistakes and scams so that you can avoid the biggest mistakes that people make when they apply for a credit card.

The wrong credit card for the job

Once upon a time, it was easy to decide between credit cards. There were just a few credit cards on the market, and they all looked pretty much the same. These days, credit card companies have gone the way of doctors - credit cards are all specialists. One of the most important decisions you'll make when you apply for a credit card is which type of credit card you really need. Think through how you'll use your card when you get it. If you'll be carrying a balance, choose the credit card with the lowest APR you can get. If you intend to pay off your balance each month, you'll want a credit card that offers great rewards - either in cash back or reward points you'll use. If your intent is to consolidate your other credit cards, go for a balance transfer card. Even knowing whether you'll use your card overseas often can be important when you apply for a credit card, since some cards are far more forgiving in their currency conversion and overseas transfer fees.
Credit 'club' cards

When is a credit card not a credit card? When it's really a 'club membership card'. Technically, any card that allows you to make a purchase now and pay for it over time is a credit card, but some companies pass off their own company credit as something more than it is. If you can only make purchases with your credit card from a members' catalog or in particular stores, then look elsewhere for a credit card. 'Members' club' credit cards limit the places where you can shop with their card, and nearly always sport far higher interest rates than the major credit cards that are welcomed around the world. Look for the name brand when you apply for a credit card. If it's not one of the nationally recognized credit cards, skip it.
High annual fees and charges

There are a number of credit cards that purport to be 'bad credit credit cards'. They claim to help you re-establish or establish your credit without resorting to a secured credit card. If you're planning to apply for a credit card for the purpose of establishing credit or repairing broken credit, there are better ways to do it than with a credit card that charges an outrageous annual fee on top of high APR and monthly membership fees. Read carefully through all the information about the credit card for which you are thinking of applying so that you knew exactly what you will be paying.

One of the best ways to find credit cards that are worth having is to use an online credit card comparison site. You can be certain that the credit cards featured on a legitimate credit card and loan comparison site are legitimate credit cards. You'll be able to search for credit cards by type and use, and compare credit cards against each other by multiple criteria. If you're ready to apply for a credit card, start your search the right way so you'll get the best credit card for your use.

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