How to Apply for a Credit Card

The world has mostly moved over to plastic payments in the form of credit cards. Many street vendors even accept credit card payments and there are many benefits associated with using credit cards to make payments.


Carrying cash is inconvenient and risky and the increasing popularity of credit cards is a reflection of this trend. It is essential to have a credit card on hand, or multiple credit cards. Here are some considerations associated with how to get a credit card.

Assessing Your Credit History

The first step towards applying for a credit card involves performing an assessment of your credit history. If you have bad credit, or no credit, it can be challenging to get a credit card. Start by researching your credit score. In these cases, you should do one of two things; build a support case for your credit card usage with an explanation of your past history and your income and ability to pay off your credit card balance going forward, or be prepared to start small with a credit card with a small limit and work up from there.

If your credit history is incredibly bad you can start with a prepaid credit card that will allow you to improve your credit rating as you make payments on the balance, without putting the lender at risk.


Choosing a Credit Card

There are many different credit cards that are available for a user and each one has its own benefits associated with them. Here are some of the examples of credit card categories to choose from:

  • Credit Cards for those with poor credit history

  • Credit cards with 0% balance transfer for a period of time that are useful to those looking to consolidate credit card balances and save on interest

  • Rewards cards for cash or points that are useful for those who pay off credit card balances on time and want to earn on their balances


Once you choose the credit card category that you fit into, you should research the options available. If you are looking for a points card, for example, consider your spending habits. If you eat at a lot of restaurants, choose a card with a higher payout for that. If you spend a lot on gas, use a credit card that compensates you for that. Use a credit card that rewards you for your spending level and mix.


Research and Keep an Eye on the Best Credit Card Offers

Some cards will compensate people with sign on bonuses. Keep an eye out for the best credit card offers available and look for sign on bonuses. Be sure that you will hit the requirements to get these bonuses. Some will require you to spend a certain amount in a three month period to qualify for the sign on bonus and be sure that you will qualify. These rewards can provide you with a big return and bonus for using your credit card and are an important decision when doing so.