How to get a credit card

Discover cards are currently not available on CNBC Select and links have been redirected to our credit card marketplace where you can review offers from other issuers like American Express or Chase. You can also check out our list of best credit cards for alternative options.

Credit cards are an essential financial tool. When you use your card responsibly, you can build credit, finance new purchases, get out of debt and earn rewards.

If you've decided to open a new credit card, it may seem as simple as applying, but there are a few more factors to consider to ensure you get the best card for your needs.

Select has five steps to follow when you want to get a credit card:

1. Decide why you want a credit card
2. Check your credit score
3. Shop around for the best credit card offers
4. Read the fine print
5. Apply for the best credit card for your needs

The first step is to figure out the reason you want to get a credit card. To make the decision easier, answer the common questions below.

• Do you want to build or rebuild credit? If you're just beginning your credit journey, or looking to repair poor credit, it can be a little more difficult to find a card that fits your needs that you'll also qualify for. Check out secured cards or cards for building or rebuilding credit. The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is on both lists as one of the best options because it gives you a timeline for upgrading to an unsecured card.
• Do you want to earn rewards? A rewards credit card is a great way to earn cash back, points or miles on every purchase you make. You can maximize rewards by considering cards that offer bonus rewards in specific categories, such as gas, groceries, restaurants, entertainment and travel. If you rather have a simple rewards program, consider a flat-rate cash-back card, such as the Citi Double Cash® Card. (see rates and fees.)
• Are you in debt and paying high interest? Carrying a balance on a high interest credit card can be costly. You can transfer debt to a balance transfer credit card offering 0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers from date of account opening, such as the Citi Simplicity® Card (after, 17.49% - 28.24% variable APR). Balance transfers must be completed within four months of account opening. You'll pay an introductory balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
• Do you have a big purchase coming up? Many credit cards offer no interest on new purchases for over a year. The Chase Freedom Unlimited® (see rates and fees) offers a 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 15 months from account opening (after 18.24% - 27.74% variable APR).
• Do you travel abroad? Some credit cards charge around a 3% fee on purchases made outside the U.S. If you travel abroad, a credit card with no foreign transaction fees is essential. Also, some cards waive Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees. The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers cardholders both perks.

Many bank issuers are transparent about the credit score requirements needed to open certain cards, such as "average" or "good/excellent." It's key to know your credit score so you know which cards you have the best chances of qualifying for.

Thankfully, there are numerous resources available for you to check your credit score for free, such as Discover Credit Scorecard (available to Discover cardholders only) and CreditWise from Capital One.

Here are the FICO credit score ranges, according to Experian:

• Very poor: 300-579
• Fair: 580-669
• Good: 670-739
• Very good: 740-799
• Exceptional: 800-850

These ranges are estimates and vary by card issuer.

It's a good idea to compare several credit cards so you know what's available. You can start by checking out Select's roundup of the best credit cards, which includes our top cards for a variety of categories, including balance transfers, no annual fee, travel and college students.

We also have side-by-side comparisons of popular credit cards:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve® vs Chase Sapphire Preferred®
• American Express® Gold Card and Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
• American Express® Gold Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Compare the rewards, fees, perks and credit requirements to see which card is best for your needs.

When you've narrowed down the credit card you want, make sure you read the fine print before applying. It's important you review the details specific to the card you want to apply for.

The terms and conditions listed in the fine print are key for you to understand before submitting an application.

Review the annual fee and interest rates for purchases, balance transfers, cash advances and penalties. Plus, be aware of any fees for foreign transactions and late payments.

Once you've settled on the best credit card for your needs, you can submit an application. The quickest way to do this is online (whether it's on a laptop or via a mobile device). You also have the option to call, go in-person to a bank or send in a paper application.

The application process is similar between issuers, and you'll typically be required to provide your name, address, date of birth, social security number, annual income and employment status.

After you submit an application, you can receive a decision in as little as 60 seconds, but it may take longer. If you're instantly approved, expect to receive your card within the next two weeks. Some card issuers, such as American Express, may provide an instant card number that you can use for online transactions right away.

For rates and fees of the Discover it® Secured Credit Card, click here.

Information about the Citi Simplicity® Card has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.