OVERVIEW

If you’re looking for a credit card but worry that your credit score might affect your acceptance or prevent you from accessing the best cards available today, we can assist. We’ve curated and rated top credit cards based on impartial criteria, features, cash back, rewards, costs, and financing options.

 

CREDIT RATING

Credit card issuers evaluate many factors when deciding whether to approve or deny a credit application, with your credit rating being a crucial element. Knowing your credit rating is the first step in selecting a credit card. Your rating will fall into one of these categories:

 

Excellent: 750 – 850

Good: 650 – 749

Fair: 600 – 649

Poor: 550 – 649

Bad: 500 – 549

 

With a low credit rating, you might need a secured card, which allows you to build your credit while minimizing the risk to the issuing company. As your rating improves, you’ll find it easier to qualify for a wider range of card programs. For instance, someone with an excellent credit rating is likely to qualify for most available credit card programs.

 

CHOOSING A CARD

Selecting a credit card involves finding the best offers that match your budget, credit score, and spending habits. We provide clear, easy-to-follow information about the benefits and features of each credit card, ensuring you understand what to expect from each offer and the issuing banks, thus avoiding potential issues that could hinder your credit card search.

 

CREDIT HISTORY

Whether you have fair, bad, or no credit, we can help. Our comprehensive data points reveal details about annual fees, introductory purchase APRs, and other associated fees. We clearly summarize regular purchase APRs and provide up-to-date information on reward types and rates.

 

DUE DILIGENCE

When applying for a new credit card, several factors need consideration. Your credit rating, credit history, and personal finances will significantly impact the approval process. A commonly overlooked tip is to choose a credit card based on your credit rating. Knowing your credit rating reduces guesswork and helps you focus on offers you can realistically qualify for.

 

PLAN THE PROCESS

Without knowing your credit rating, you might apply for offers you don’t qualify for. For example, if a card requires a very good or excellent credit score, but your score is fair, your approval chances are slim. Additionally, multiple credit inquiries in a short period can negatively impact your credit score. Avoid continually applying for offers you won’t qualify for. Knowing your credit rating helps you plan your search and application process efficiently.

 

Consider these questions:

Do you need a secured credit card to build your credit history and score?

Can you apply for an unsecured card that requires average credit, with the goal of upgrading to a better card later?

Is your credit rating high enough to qualify for almost any offer, including those for very good or excellent credit?

 

ADVERTISER DISCLOSURE

*Advertisements displaying guaranteed credit lines or credit limits of $500.00 are for use through online retail stores, online marketplaces, or online auctions. These credit limit offers depend on approval by the issuing credit institution. When searching for the best credit card, consider factors like APR rates before signing up. Financing costs are important if you plan to carry a monthly balance. Missing timely payments increases financing costs and requires you to pay fees plus your current balance. Interest rates can range from 0% to 35% for various periods. Review credit card applications for specific terms and conditions. We strive to provide up-to-date information, but all offers are displayed without guarantee. Click “Apply Now” to learn more about the credit offer on a secure page provided by the card issuer(s). Review full terms and conditions before applying for any credit card.

 

SUMMARY

It’s easy to focus on credit card features like cash back rewards programs. While it’s fine to list your preferences, don’t let them be your only consideration. To make the right selection efficiently, choose a credit card based on your current credit rating.