Ultimate Guide to the First Credit Card
One of the things that you may need later in life is the credit card. This is one of the milestones that many young adults look forward to. It is, however, critical to note that your first credit card will play a crucial role in your credit card history. The Protection Regulation helps in safeguarding the credit card users.
This, therefore, calls for wisdom whenever you are applying for one. Since there are many options out there, it is easier to get lost in thousands of the options out there. Let us look at some of the things that you should consider when selecting the best card.
Purpose
Before you apply for the first credit card, you need to have a reason as to why you are applying for one. People apply for credit cards for various reasons; there are those who apply for the same to build their credit score while there are those who apply so that they may purchase something at once.
We also have retailers who offer their customers with credit cards, and in return, they earn various rewards whenever they make purchases through the card. Knowing the purpose of the credit card will help you to make an informed decision as far as the credit card is concerned.
Categories
Credit cards can be categorized into broad categories the non-reward and reward cards. If you are sure of when you will clear your balance within the stipulated time frame, go for the rewards credit card.
This type of cards typically rewards the users with a percentage of money that they spend and can be cashed back or redeemed as points. However, if it will take time to pay off your loan, then apply for the non-reward credit cards since they have relaxed credit extension.
Rewards
Rewards that are issued by the credit cards come in different forms. Some of the rewards include cash back, travel, airline, and hotel just but to mention a few. As a first-time credit card user, chances are high that you will spend less than $24,000 in a year.
If that is the case, then select the cash back option. Every time you make purchases, you will earn based on the percentage that you agree with the company. If you a heavy user you can opt for the airlines and hotel rewards.
Minimum age
The minimum age of a credit card varies from country to country. The minimum age in some country is 18 while whereas it is 21 years in another country. To sign a credit card, you will need to have personal identification documents and someone to approve the application. The person is referred to as guarantor and will pay in the event you are unable to pay. For more information about the credit cards watch the video below: