How is your credit?
I don't have any credit.
My credit is bad.
My credit is fair.
My credit is good.
My credit is excellent.
If your credit is thin to nonexistent, your card options will be limited. You could qualify for a secured credit card, which requires you to put down a cash deposit to cover the line of credit.
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MORE: Secured credit cards
If your credit is bad, your focus should be on rebuilding it. Card options will be limited, but you could qualify for a secured credit card. These cards require you to put down a cash deposit to cover the line of credit, thereby minimizing the risk of running up a bill you can't pay.
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MORE: Secured credit cards
If your credit is fair, you won't qualify for the best interest rates on traditional credit cards. You should try applying for a secured card first to rebuild your credit so you can qualify for better rates on traditional products down the road.
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MORE: Secured credit cards
Are you currently a student? If so, do you have verifiable income or established credit?
Yes, I'm a student without verifiable income or established credit.
Yes, I'm a student, but have verifiable income or established credit.
No, I'm not a student.
Many issuers offer student credit cards despite a lack of verifiable income or established credit. These cards can help you build credit. Just beware of carrying a balance, as interest rates are typically higher on student cards than they are for traditional credit cards.
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MORE: Student credit cards
Is this card for personal or business needs?
Business needs.
Personal needs.
Issuers offer cards specifically designed for business owners that offer things like year-end summaries and unlimited rewards. Look to find a business credit card that best suits your needs.
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MORE: Business credit cards
Are you transferring a balance?
No, I'm not transferring a balance.
Yes, I am transferring a balance.
Will you be using this card to make a big purchase?
Yes.
No.
Do you plan to pay off your balance every month or carry a balance?
I plan to pay off the balance every month.
I plan to carry a balance.
Given that you plan to pay off your balance every month, you're a good candidate for a rewards credit card, which will let you earn points, miles or cash back on your purchases. To find out which kind of rewards card is best for you, continue on to the next question.
Are you willing to pay an annual fee for more rewards?
Yes, I will pay an annual fee.
No, I don't want to pay an annual fee.
How much do you charge annually?
Less than $2,500.
$2,500 to $5,000.
$5,000 to $10,000.
More than $10,000.
Do you prefer points or cash back?
Points.
Cash back.
What category do you spend the most on?
Gas.
Airfare/hotel.
Household.
All of the above.
If you spend a lot on fuel, you should consider a card that earns high rewards back on that particular type of purchase.
Good luck with your new credit card! Spend responsibly!
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If you spend a lot on travel, you should consider a card that earns high rewards back on that particular type of purchase.
Good luck with your new credit card! Spend responsibly!
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If you spend a lot on household items, you might want to consider a general rewards card.
Good luck with your new credit card! Spend responsibly!
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