Which card is right for you?

Zero-or-low interest rate
Best for: Anyone willing and able to pay down existing credit card debt relatively quickly.

Pros: Most cards offer the bargain rate on balance transfers from other cards. The lower rate can save you a bundle on your current interest costs.

Cons: The low rate usually lasts for only six to nine months, then reverts to something higher, usually around 14 percent to 16 percent. One late payment and the card will revert to the higher rate immediately. If you transfer a large balance but don't pay it off during the favorable rate period, you may end up with a higher rate than you had to begin with.

Rewards
Best for: People who make the majority of their purchases on a credit card and pay off the balance each month.

Pros: Cards offer cash back, airline miles or points toward purchasing select merchandise based on the amount you spend. Some rewards cards, for instance, currently offer as much as 5 percent cash back on select purchases with no annual fee.

Cons: Some cards have high interest rates and annual fees that cancel out the reward benefits. Other have complicated and unfavorable redemption policies. Always read the offer carefully.

Secured
Best for: Someone with has gotten into trouble with credit cards in the past.

Pros: Most secured cards report to the three credit bureaus, so using one responsibly can be a way to establish or repair your credit rating.

Cons: The secured part means you put down a deposit, usually between $200 and $250, with your application. Many secured cards have high interest rates and annual fees. Read the fine print very carefully.


Student
Best for: College students who can handle money responsibly.

Pros: Students can qualify for theses cards without an established credit rating. Many offer extra benefits such as cash back or bookstore discounts.

Cons: Some companies charge higher interest rates for students. It's easy for students who are inexperienced with handling credit cards and finances in general to rack up unmanageable debts quickly.