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3 Quick Steps to Find the Right New Credit Card in 2021
Make choosing the right credit card for yourself simple
I know, finding a new credit card for yourself can be time-consuming. You would rather stick to the two credit cards you have now, but you know that it is time to get a new credit card that offers better rewards and still fits within your spending habits.
When it comes to finding a new credit card or doing research in general, I like to create a process to simplify what I need to do to avoid wasting time. For finding a new credit card that you will be able to maximize to the fullest, the following 3 quick steps will help to simplify the process:
1. Check Your FICO Score
2. Understand Your Spending Behavior
3. Identify the Rewards and Benefits You Want
1. Check Your FICO Score
Your FICO Score is your most important credit score. It is used in over 90% of U.S. lending decisions. One of the easiest ways to check your FICO Score is through Experian. Generally, FICO scores ranging from 300 to 579 are poor, 580 to 669 are fair, 670 to 739 are good, 740 to 799 are very good, and 800 to 850 are exceptional. In understanding the range that your FICO Score falls in, you will have a good idea of what kind of credit card you will likely qualify for. Using websites such as NerdWallet and The Points Guy will typically make you aware of the kind of FICO Score you will need for a specific credit card you are interested in.
2. Understand Your Spending Behavior
Understanding your spending behavior is significant when it comes to finding the right new credit card for yourself. For example, if you actively spend money on Amazon, maybe a credit card that offers 5% cashback at Amazon will be a good choice for you. Another example is if you still travel often, maybe a credit card that offers 5 travel points per dollar spent back on air travel will be a good choice for you. In becoming more understanding of where you most often spend money, you will better align yourself with a credit card that will allow you to reap the most rewards possible.
