Credit cards are akin to a motorcycle: flashy, exciting, and potentially dangerous. If you don’t put a helmet on your spending habits, you can quickly wind up financially hurt by your credit card.

How do you know if you’re choosing the right credit card? Here are simple instructions on how to choose the right credit card that won’t eat your entire wallet.

Check the APR

The APR is the annual percentage rate, and this is the most important factor when determining if you should move forward with a credit card company. A high APR will be a financial nightmare for you, and the interest rate will directly impact whether you spend six months or two years paying the debt on an impulse buy.

Beware of offers that lure you into a credit card with a low interest rate. Chances are these are only introductory rates that will expire within three to six months, leaving you with a real APR of 20% or higher. Reading the fine print on any offer will ensure that your APR will not be a nasty surprise.

In addition to reviewing the APR, you also want to examine the card for any annual fee. With so many credit cards today that charge no annual fee, why waste the $50 per year?

Avoid Pre-Approved and Department Store Cards

Pre-approved credit card offers may constantly bombard your mailbox. These are typically high-interest credit cards for which you never even applied. You should shred all of these offers, as they are usually not in your best financial interest – and you don’t want the information to fall into the hands of identity thieves.

In addition, you should never get lured into signing up for a department store card because the employee assisting you is nice. Saving 10% on your purchases by opening up an account with them will only hurt your credit score. In addition, these cards have the highest APR to boot.

Look for Benefits

Some credit card companies offer smart benefits when becoming a cardholder with them. Frequent travelers would benefit from a credit card that gives frequent flyer miles. Those who drive tremendously can benefit from cards that give rebates on gasoline purchases. Or you can simply choose a credit card that gives you 1% cash back on all of your purchases.

However, it is very important to ensure that the credit card you are considering does not have an annual fee. Many credit card companies like to bundle their cards with benefits with annual fees of $20 – $50, which typically negates any benefits.

Check with Your Bank First

When choosing a credit card, your bank should always be your first stop. Bank credit cards are known for having the lowest APR. You’ve already established a relationship because they’re the providers for your checking account, savings account or maybe even both. Most banks offer a wide selection of credit cards, and they can customize credit cards to fit your specific needs.

By taking these tips into consideration, you’ll be able to find the credit card that fits you the best!

Author Bio: Tasha is an experienced Houston real estate marketing professional. Feel free to visit VIP Realty- Clientside Houston Condo page to view hot new listings.