Wait! Don't fill out that card application just yet. You need to first pick out a card that's right for you and carefully understand the terms and conditions before you apply for it.

Here are the steps you need to take before you apply for a card.

1. Research

This is probably the most obvious step you can take. Just as you would compare grocery stores for their prices, you will want to compare card companies as well. Any time you plan on investing in an expensive product, you'll want to make sure you're getting the best deal. cards are no exception. Plenty of places on the web offer ratings and reviews of various card offers - but don't simply read over them, call up the various card issuers as well to confirm that the information is up to date. The Federal Reserve Board is the most objective source of this information.

2. Determine your budget and needs

Write down all the different features you need the most in your card. If you have all of this clearly defined from the start, it will be harder to become distracted by other enticing offers that may lure you off the course that leads

to the better lending institutions. It will also, of course, help you narrow your search for the best card out there so you can find one that suits your budget. You can even prioritize what you want in a card, so that you can adequately weigh your options later.

3. Review

There are a variety of plans available - look over the different offers. Would you benefit from low APR or a personalized card that offers benefits like frequent flyer miles? Compare your list from Step #2 with the different plans that you come across. You also might consider joining a union, which is a non-profit institution. unions greatly benefit the consumer and they are expanding, so find out if you qualify for this special card loan.

4. Compare

This is the final step. Now that you've researched and reviewed your different options, use your "wish list" (from Step #2) as criteria to judge all the various plans. Mastercard, Visa Card, Chase Card, Citi Bank, Advanta, Orchard Bank, Discover, American Express - there are several possibilities and you're sure to find the perfect card for you.

Remember, however, that your history precedes you and it may limit your options. If you have some bad marks on your report or simply haven't developed a report at all, you may be prevented from obtaining the card you want. But use that as an incentive to keep up with your payments and stay within your limit from hereon. This way you can build up a good history so that more doors open for you and you can enjoy more financial freedom in the long run.

Chris McCullough is the founder of CreditcardSuperstar.com, a card shopping service which allows consumers to shop, compare and apply for low interest rate cards online. The leading site offers over 75 different cards from Discover, Chase, American Express and other top banks and financial institutions. A free report on how to get the best card and avoid common mistakes is available at http://www.creditcardsuperstar.com.

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