6 Details to Consider When Comparing Credit Card Offers

Are you in the process of comparing credit card offers? Are you wondering how you’ll ever sift through all the offers to find the one that suits you best?

It’s good that there are hundreds of credit card offers to compare. This gives you the opportunity to find the one that matches your current financial standing and goals.

On the flipside, so many offers can make it difficult to pinpoint the perfect one.

Here are six details to focus on, all of which can help you create a short list as to speed up the process:

• Regular APR. What’s the interest rate if you carry a balance from month to month? This depends largely on your credit score, but it will vary from one offer to the next.
• Is there an annual fee? How about a foreign transaction fee? Review the fee schedule before you make a final decision.
• Credit needed. Some people have excellent credit, meaning they’ll qualify for pretty much every offer. Others, however, have less than desirable credit, meaning they need to be more selective. Knowing your credit score and required credit can help narrow your choices.
• Benefits and features. Is there a reward program? How about online account access? Every credit card comes with a long list of benefits and features. Once you know which ones are most important it’s easier to decide how to move forward.
• Customer service. You want to choose a credit card that is known for providing high-level customer service. In addition to reading consumer reviews, don’t hesitate to contact the issuer on the phone to ask questions. If you’re treated poorly before you apply you shouldn’t expect anything different if you become a customer.
• Application process. While most credit card applications are standard, you’ll still want to learn more about the application process before you push forward. If it’s too complex or doesn’t make sense, move on to another offer.

These may not be the only details you consider when comparing credit card offers, but starting here is never a bad idea.