What to Look for in a New Credit Card
Many people worry about getting a new credit card because of concerns about credit card debt. However, a credit card doesn’t have to be a problem. If you’re smart about it, a new credit card can be a great way for you to save some extra money for your family. However, you need to make sure that you’re getting the right credit card for your needs. When you’re thinking about a new credit card, here are four important things to look for.
1. A Great Annual Fee
The first thing that many people look at in a new credit card is the card’s annual fee. Although an annual fee can be an incredibly useful thing to look at, an annual fee can also be very helpful for certain cards. Travel credit cards, for example, very regularly have an annual fee, as that annual fee allows them to provide more value for the card. It’s best to determine the maximum annual fee that your family can afford, rather than to just assume that a no-fee card will be best for you.
2. An Introductory Bonus
Introductory bonuses allow people to front-load a surprising amount of benefits onto their credit card. For example, if you get a Capital One Venture card and qualify for the introductory bonus, you’ll get 60,000 miles, worth at least $600 in travel, and possibly more if you spend them smartly. Make sure you look at both the bonus and the requirements to actually qualify for this bonus.
3. General Rewards on Your Purchases
While an introductory bonus can be a great option for you to add even more benefits to your purchases, it’s also a one-time benefit that you’ll only get at the beginning of holding the card. You want to get a general rewards rate that’s extremely beneficial for your card usage in general. Look for a new credit card that offers a variety of purchase benefits if possible.
4. Overall Benefits as a Cardholder
Lastly, you’ll need to look at the general benefits that the specific credit card you’re looking at will offer you. What are the benefits available? Are you going to get trip protection, purchase protections, annual credits, more booking options, or something else? If you want to get the best benefits as a cardholder, you want to make sure that you’re aware of all of your benefits. Make sure you take a look at the full list, and keep them in mind so you know when you should be using this card.
Conclusion
A new credit card is a great way to save money in many ways, but you need to be careful and make sure that you’re using it in the best way possible. A new credit card isn’t inherently good or bad – it’s all about how you use it. Use these four important elements of a great credit card to find a new credit card that meets all of your personal needs.
