A simple Google search for “credit card for bad credit” reveals an incomprehensible 701,000,000 results. When faced with so many options, so much advice, and too many offers, it can feel impossible to make the right choice.
As overwhelming as it seems, there are a few simple tips you can implement to ensure that you pick the very best card possible when you apply for a credit card with bad credit. Below, we’ll go over our top six tips to help you find the best credit card to fit your situation.
1. Identify the Credit Card’s Perks
When you’re learning how to obtain a credit card with bad credit, the first thing you’re likely considering is the benefits of having a credit card in the first place. It’s true that a credit card offers financial security in times when you’d otherwise not have many options. But, can you apply for a credit card with bad credit?
The answer is a hard ‘yes’! Your options might be more limited with bad credit, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. While looking through your options, first identify what makes the card attractive. Are they offering a low interest rate? Do they have cash-back bonuses? Consider the perks of each card because you want to make sure you get the very best one.
2. Take Note of the Credit Card’s Downsides
If you’ve ever been in credit card debt, then you know how difficult it can be to get back on a level playing field. Once you get deep into credit card debt, it’s easy to fall into a debt cycle that never ends. For that reason, it’s absolutely crucial to take note of the credit card’s downsides when you’re picking out which credit card to apply for with bad credit. Here are a few things to specifically look for:
- Extremely high interest rates
- Unreasonable late fees or penalties
- Inconsistent maintenance fees
- Penalties for not paying off the amount you owe in full each month
If you notice some of the red flags above, then it might be best to move on to a different card provider. Otherwise, you could end up in a worse position than when you began.
3. Read Customer Reviews
Credit cards for people with bad credit can sometimes be predatory. That’s why it’s crucial to always read customer reviews about the credit card you’re considering. Customer reviews might reveal downsides about the company or card that you didn’t notice before. Be cautious of any company with several bad reviews.
4. Consider Your Ability to Pay
Next, consider your ability to pay off any debt you take on. If you don’t think you can pay back what you take out, then be honest with yourself. Hold yourself accountable and do your best not to get trapped in more debt than you can handle.
You might wonder — can a lawyer negotiate credit card debt? In a nutshell, the answer is ‘yes’. Keep in mind, though, that you don’t want to get yourself in that situation unless you have absolutely no other choice.
5. Think About Your Financial Goals
If you’re wondering how to apply for a credit card with bad credit, then it’s important to think about your financial goals before you move forward. If your goal is to improve your credit, then you’ll have to be very vigilant and careful about using your card. You won’t want to use it for pleasure or fun. Instead, you’ll have to be strategic. Pick a card that will help you accomplish all your financial goals.
6. Review Your Options
Of course, you’ll want to review your options before you come to a final decision. Don’t make the mistake of simply picking a card because it looks good or seems fair. Do your due diligence, review your options, and make the best choice.
Apply for a Credit Card with Bad Credit
Are you seeking to apply for a credit card with bad credit? If so, then the sheer amount of options available to you alone is sure to make your head spin. The good news is that you’ll be able to find the right credit card to suit your situation if you follow the six tips we’ve outlined above.
Once you find the right card, you’ll want to know how to apply for a credit card with bad credit. The last thing you want to do is to accept the first offer you’re given, purchase a bunch of items, and then get trapped in yet another cycle of debt. This is especially true if you’re currently overloaded with credit card debt already. Are you trying to deal with past credit card debt at the same time you’re seeking out a new card?
Fill out our contact form now to learn more about how much you can save by taking advantage of our debt relief and settlement programs.
Gabriel Gorelik paves the way for customer service and operations at United Settlement. He is passionate about numbers and holds a strong belief in helping anyone with their debt. Before United Settlement, Gabriel received his BS in Finance & Economics from Brooklyn College. After graduation, Gabriel went on to build his first financial services company where he managed thousands of accounts for business and consumer clients. He understands the importance of client satisfaction, professionalism, and exceeding expectations.