How To Get A Credit Card

Anxious to get your first credit card, or another credit card?

I frankly don't recommend you follow any offers you get in the mail. Instead, spend some time researching online (on web sites like Credit Card Outlaw and our excellent competitors) to find a tempting credit card offer that matches your needs EXACTLY... whether it be the most cash back for the sorts of purchases you plan to make, a nice air miles or hotel points program, or a general rewards program that fits your lifestyle.

American Express offers a number of great credit cards in my opinion, so definitely check them out. Also check out Bank of America's VISA Signature line of credit cards -- although I have many open credit card accounts right now, with a significant total line of credit on many of them, at the moment I am only using my BofA VISA Signature card... it just simplifies things.

I used to use my AmEx Clear card a lot, but haven't been using American Express as much lately -- even though their JetBlue card is super tempting!

So that's how to get a credit card, in a nutshell. Do the research online, find the best offer, and then apply on your computer. Be prepared to give the bank personal information about yourself, including your current income level. If you don't have sufficient income or are currently a student or unemployed, you may be turned down for some of the more premium/high-credit limit credit cards out there. Don't get discouraged; check out entry level cards like the Citi Platinum Select line designed especially for college students and those new to the credit game.