How does this card compare to other options?3 of 10If you're shopping for a card, chances are you're comparing card terms. But if an issuer sends you an offer, it's tempting to apply and see what you get.The problem: That low-hanging fruit might not be the best option for you."It's really difficult to pick one (in isolation)," says Kelly Rogers, chief development officer for the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Orange County and adjunct faculty at Chapman University. "If someone just shows you one car, how do you know if it's the right car for you?"Her advice: Do a side-by-side comparison of several different cards before you apply.Don't be afraid to plug the card name, "complaints" and "customer service" into your favorite search engine. "I go through and see who has the least amount of complaints and issues," says Rogers.More On Credit Cards:Find the best rate on credit cardsCreate a news alert for "credit cards" Related Articles:Card fees level off in 2011Card payoff calculatorCredit card adviceRelated Links:Credit card topic pageSharing card accountsCompare credit cards advertisement
If you're shopping for a card, chances are you're comparing card terms. But if an issuer sends you an offer, it's tempting to apply and see what you get.
The problem: That low-hanging fruit might not be the best option for you.
"It's really difficult to pick one (in isolation)," says Kelly Rogers, chief development officer for the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Orange County and adjunct faculty at Chapman University. "If someone just shows you one car, how do you know if it's the right car for you?"
Her advice: Do a side-by-side comparison of several different cards before you apply.
Don't be afraid to plug the card name, "complaints" and "customer service" into your favorite search engine. "I go through and see who has the least amount of complaints and issues," says Rogers.
More On Credit Cards:
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A little research could save you BIG on interest.