Credit Card Guide Presents...

For most of the western world, credit cards have become an indispensable modern day convenience. It's hard to get by without a credit card these days, as a matter of fact, especially if you are a business professional. If you're looking into opening your first line of credit, read this article for a few tips and hints about what you want in your very first card.

First, compare the interest chargeable for all the credit cards for which you are eligible. While the rate may not remain fixed indefinitely, it's always advisable for first timers to go for the one charging lower rates.

Be sure to examine the fine print carefully on the a href="http://www.credit-cardguides.com/Credit-Card-Apps/Credit-Card-Apps.php" target="_blank">credit card apps, especially for other charges that may apply you to like late-payment fees and annual fees, and if there is a grace period before finance charges begin.

Decide what limit is appropriate for a person of your income. Also the fewer credit cards you have, the better placed you are to track your spending.

Compare the services and other features such as the cash back incentives, or warranties, rebates and the like.

Check whether the card is widely accepted to enable you to pay for your needs.

You will do yourself a favor by familiarizing yourself with the following terms often found on unsecured credit card applications.

Annual Percentage Rate. This is the measure of the yearly cost of credit.

Finance Charges. These are the total charges involving the transaction. This is the period the issuer gives you before he starts charging you interest on new purchases. Note that not all credit cards have a grace period.

There are three main types of credit cards that are common in America. The first are travel and entertainment cards such as American Express or Diners Card. These often have to be paid in full at the end of the month and are liberal on spending limits.

The second major cards are the bank cards such as Master Cards, Visa, GM, and Ford cards sponsored mainly by the banks. The bank defines spending limits, which in the bank parlance, is known as the credit lines, and each offers different terms and conditions. Banks offer a choice of payment methods, either pay the balance in full with no interest or pay a minimum part or some part of the balance with a finance charge.

The other important kinds of card to know about are the in-store cards, such as gas or department store cards. The gas card is sometimes known as a fuel card, as is only usable in certain countries, and there are no yearly fees attached. Of course, the terms and conditions of the cards vary widely.

There are a variety of different credit cards available. Check all the credit cards that are available and the options they offer. Some cards are more for business and some are geared to servicing the consumer. Find the one that best suits your requirements before committing to one. For further help, consult one of the online credit-cardguides.

Find articles covering every topic related to credit cards at Credit-CardGuides.com, a virtual credit card clearinghouse chockful of helpful information on choosing the credit card offers that best meet your needs, as well as links to low APR credit card apps and the most popular unsecured credit card applications .