7 Tips For Getting The Best Deal On Credit Cards

Contrary to popular belief, finding the best deal on credit cards doesn't have to be like searching for the elusive holy grail of the credit world. In fact, by following these seven simple tidbits of advice, finding the best credit cards can be almost a cake walk.

1. Best For You

When looking for the best deal on credit cards, you first need to assess what's the best deal for you, personally. After all, what's best for a person who pays their balance off in full each month and travels a lot is not best for the person who carries a high balance and doesn't go anywhere.

Because of this, the first step towards finding the best deal on credit cards is analyzing your lifestyle, your spending habits and your credit card balances.

2. Interest or Rewards

Once you know what your spending and payment habits are, it's time to decide which type of credit card will offer you the best deal.

If you pay your balance off in full each month, a low-interest credit card is not going to be the best deal for your specific situation. After all, you're not paying interest anyway. In this instance, you'll want some type of rewards card.

On the other hand, if you keep a high balance on your credit cards then a rewards card probably isn't the best deal on credit cards for you. As a rule, rewards cards generally have a higher interest rate associated with them. You'd be better off with a low interest credit card.

3. Introductory Offers

The best deal on credit cards is oftentimes tied to an introductory offer. For instance, some of the best credit cards offer 0-percent interest for six months to a year.

When looking for the best deal on credit cards, look for an introductory offer, but make sure that when that initial period is over, the interest rate remains reasonable.

4. Shopping Around

Every credit card company will tell you that they have the best deal on credit cards.

However, the only way to know for sure is to compare credit cards using an apples-to-apples approach. Check introductory interest rates, long-term interest rates, benefits, rewards, etc.

5. Use the Web

One of the best places to find the best deal on credit cards is the Internet. The Web allows you to compare current credit card offerings and apply for instant approval.

Some of the best credit cards can approve your application in a matter of minutes and can have your new credit card to you within a matter of a few days.

6. Don't Be Afraid of Change

One of the best ways to ensure your getting the best deal on credit cards is to check offers frequently and don't be afraid to change cards.

For instance, if you have had a credit card with a 0-percent introductory rate for about a year, but that introductory period is about over, consider transferring your balance to another card with a low introductory rate.

7. Ask for It

Sometimes getting the best deal on credit cards involves simply asking the companies you already use.

For instance, if you think you're paying too much interest on your Visa, call the customer service number and ask them to lower the interest rate. Let them know that if they don't lower it, you'll be closing the account and transfering the balance elsewhere.

More often than not if you're a good customer, they'll be willing to oblige and you will have gotten the best deal on credit cards without opening a new account or transfering your balances.

These seven tips will help you get the best deal on credit cards for you! credit [l]