People often find it hard to make a change even when they know they are not getting the best they deserve. Some simply don’t know the right time to make a change. If you’re starting to feel stuck with your credit card, it might be time to look at other offers. Also, if you’ve been using your current card for years without any upgrades, other issuers might have something better in stock for you. Here are 10 signs that let you know if you need to look out for a new credit card or not;
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Your Credit Has Improved | Is It Time To Look For A New Credit Card?
If you have maintained a good credit profile and have improved, you may be able to qualify for better rewarding cards. When you have bad credit, your credit card options are limited. You may have to open a secured credit card or accept a less attractive credit card so you can rebuild your credit and qualify for something better.
- You’re Getting Offers for Better Credit Cards | Is It Time To Look For A New Credit Card?
If credit card issuers are mailing offers for credit cards with better terms than the one you’re currently using, consider taking one of those offers. Credit card issuers have prescreened you based on your credit information so they think you may be a good fit. First, compare what you’ve received in the mail to credit card offers on the internet. Then, call the credit card issuer or apply online once you’ve made a final decision. Not receiving any credit card offers? Make sure you haven’t opted-out.
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Your Interest Rate Is High | Is It Time To Look For A New Credit Card?
Before you switch to a new credit card, try negotiating a lower rate with your credit card issuer. Be ready to move your balance to a new credit card if it doesn’t work out. You can move your balance to a credit card with a 0 percent introductory rate and pay off the balance without having to pay another dime of interest. Or, you could at least pay off a significant part of the balance interest-free.
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You’re Not Earning Any Rewards | Is It Time To Look For A New Credit Card?
Unless you really have poor credit, there is no reason not to have a rewards credit card when so many credit cards have great rewards programs — Discover even offers a secured credit card with rewards. If you use your credit card responsibly, a rewards credit card is a better option than your current credit card that doesn’t give you any additional benefits for using their credit card.
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You’re Not Earning Rewards in Categories Where You Spend Most Money
Some credit card issuers reward more in specific categories while some just offer general rewards. If you spend a lot on gas and groceries — $500 or more per month — consider the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card which pays 6 percent cash back on those categories. Frequent travelers may benefit from the Chase Sapphire Preferred which pays two points per dollar on travel and dining purchases.
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You Haven’t Received a Credit Limit Increase in Years
If your credit limit has remained the same while your income and credit score have increased, it’s time to look for a new credit card. Some credit cards have a max credit limit that applies to all cardholders regardless of income and other factors. Consider another credit card if you can’t get a credit limit increase on your favorite credit card despite being a responsible cardholder for several years.
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You’re Paying an Annual Fee but Not Getting Any Additional Benefits
There are generally two times you should pay an annual fee for a credit card: you’re rebuilding your credit and the only cards you qualify for have an annual fee or your credit card perks far outweigh the annual fee. Otherwise, save your annual fee and go for a new credit card without the extra cost.
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You Want to Take Advantage of Signup Bonuses
Lots of credit cards are offering bonuses for cardholders who spend a certain amount of money within a specific timeframe, usually three months. The only requirement is that you have to be a new account holder to qualify for the bonus. If you have used your credit card for too long, maybe it’s time to explore a new one.
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You Don’t Have a Credit Cards of Your Own
If your only credit card is one that you’re an authorized user or joint account holder, it may be time to apply for your own credit card. As long as you have a credit card with someone else, your credit history is dependent on how they use the card. Once you’re able to qualify for a credit card on your own, look for a new credit card of your own, even if it’s with the same issuer.
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Your Current Credit Cards Is Going Away
Sometimes credit card issuers decide not to continue a certain credit card. Your credit card issuer may give you the option to switch to another credit card within its portfolio, but if you prefer, you can look for a better credit card elsewhere.
Should You Close Your Old Credit Cards?
Leaving your old credit card account open may benefit your credit score. So, even if you switch to a new credit card, use your old one periodically to keep it active and included in your credit score. On the other hand, you may close your old credit cards if it’s charging an annual fee that you no longer want to pay. Make sure you pay off any outstanding balance before you close the credit card to avoid spiking your credit.
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