Reputation, Not Just Rates, Important When Choosing a Credit Card

Unbiased Financial Information Provided by Financial Finesse

With so many credit card issuers clamoring to get their plastic in your pocket, how do you decide which offer to accept? You might think that the choice boils down to the best rates and lowest fees, but the lender's reputation - for fair prices, clear and upfront disclosures, and truly helpful customer service - is just as important as the credit terms. So how do you know which companies are reputable and which aren't?

You'd Better Shop Around If You Want a Card You Can Count On

Ask the same questions for every credit card you consider. If you're not happy with the answers for a particular company, don't do business with it.

• Have you heard of the company before?
• Do any of your friends or family use a card issued by this company?
• Does the company have a Web site? (Most reputable credit card companies do.)
• Does the company's Web site or promotional literature outline all of the card's key terms? (Such as the APR, annual fees, cash advance rates and fees, late and over-the-limit fees and grace period.)
• Are the finance charges, fees and other terms in line with other cards' costs and terms?
• Can you quickly and easily reach a live customer service representative when you call the company? (Try calling before you accept the card.)
• Can the representative answer all your questions to your satisfaction?