Find the best card for your lifestyle. Here are four of the most-common types of cards.

1. Zero-or-low interest rate

Pros: Most cards offer the bargain rate on balance transfers from other cards. The lower rate can save you a bundle on your current interest costs.

Cons: The low rate usually lasts for only six to nine months, then reverts to something higher, usually around 14 percent to 16 percent. One late payment and the card will revert to the higher rate immediately. If you transfer a large balance but don't pay it off during the favorable rate period, you may end up with a higher rate than you had to begin with.

Find the best rate.

2. Rewards

Pros: Cards offer cash back, airline miles or points toward purchasing select merchandise based on the amount you spend. Some rewards cards, for instance, currently offer as much as 5 percent cash back on select purchases with no annual fee.

Cons: Some cards have high interest rates and annual fees that cancel out the reward benefits. Other have complicated and unfavorable redemption policies. Always read the offer carefully.

Find the best deal.

3. Secured

Pros: Most secured cards report to the three credit bureaus, so using one responsibly can be a way to establish or repair your credit rating.

Cons: The secured part means you put down a deposit, usually between $200 and $250, with your application. Many secured cards have high interest rates and annual fees. Read the fine print very carefully.

4. Student

Pros: Students can qualify for theses cards without an established credit rating. Many offer extra benefits such as cash back or bookstore discounts.

Cons: Some companies charge higher interest rates for students. It's easy for students who are inexperienced with handling credit cards and finances in general to rack up unmanageable debts quickly.

Find the best rate.

Do you have a secret to success with credit cards? Or, are you struggling? Share your story.

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