Well, it is best to start your search online, as many websites will compare credit cards, side by side, according to their APR, annual fee, terms and conditions, and perks. This will give you a broader picture of what types of credit cards may be available to you and what you can expect in terms of APR and promotional rates.

However, beyond that, here are some tips that will help you score the credit card that best fits your lifestyle and your budget:

• Chuck the annual fees – There is simply no reason to pay an annual fee for a credit card anymore, unless of course you are involved in an advantageous rewards program. But for most credit card holders, it just doesn’t make sense to fork over an annual fee for a credit card.
• Think “fixed” in terms of interest rates – You may find a credit card with a fantastic, variable interest rate, but beware that this interest rate can shoot up at any given time. The new credit card legislation has clear boundaries for creditors when it comes to raising interest rates on fixed-rate cards, but variable-rate cards are still fair game. No matter how attractive the offer seems for a variable rate credit card, your best bet is to find a card with a low, fixed interest rate.
• Don’t get pulled in by an attractive introductory rate – Introductory rates, which are often as low as 0 percent, may seem like a great deal. However, introductory rates are just that – introductory – which means that after the introductory period has ended your interest rate can shoot up to very high levels.
• Pass up rewards programs (most of the time) – For the average credit card user, rewards programs are just not beneficial. However, if you are a big spender, and you pay off your card in full each month, a rewards credit card may be worth it.

There are, however, a number of things you can do protect yourself, even given the loopholes being enacted by credit card companies:

• Look closely at your credit card statement each and every month and take note of any changes in your credit card’s terms and conditions. The CARD act requires that credit card companies must notify you 45 days in advance of any credit card changes, thereby providing you with the opportunity to find another credit card or close your account. Remember: credit card companies can charge all the fees they want, but in the end it is up to you as to whether you will accept these fees or not.
• Regardless of what you have been told in the past, if you don’t like the terms and conditions of your current credit card, cancel the account and find another one. The small hit you may take on your credit score due to a closed account will be minor, so get rid of the unwanted card and make a better choice. It is important to close any accounts that you no longer use, as you will likely incur inactivity fees as a result inactive accounts.
• To find the most competitive credit card, check out popular bank, credit card, and lending websites. These websites compare all of the latest credit cards, side by side, so can shop for a new credit card in one place. In addition, don’t forget to check out credit cards through your local credit union or bank; often times the interest rates charged by these local institutions are quite attractive and competitive.

It is important to remain in charge of your financial future, and the only way to accomplish this is to remain educated, informed and aware.

Given all of the credit card options available, how can you be sure you’re getting best deal and the most competitive rates?

Well, the first thing you can do is use the Internet to research and compare the top credit cards by each credit card company. However, there are several other factors that you may want to look at next time you are considering applying for a new credit card:

• Read the fine print when it comes to cards boasting a zero percent interest rate. More importantly, find out whether this zero percent rate is fixed or variable, and whether it is simply a promotional or “teaser” rate that will last just a few months. Many consumers fall into the zero-percent-interest trap, only to be stuck with a high interest rate once the promotional rate expires.
• Look further than just the interest rate. A credit card company could offer you a fantastic interest rate, and then sock you with outrageous fees. Check to see if the credit card company charges an annual fee for the card; also, check the card’s fees and penalties for cash advances, late payments and over-the-limit fees.
• Make sure the credit card you choose has a grace period. Some credit card companies charge interest from the moment you make a purchase, while others offer consumers a grace period during which they can pay off the card with no interest charges.
• Look beyond rewards and perks. Some consumers are drawn into using a credit card simply because it offers them some type of reward program or perks for using the card. However, what many consumers fail to realize is that the rewards they think they are earning are merely being trumped by high interest rates or other fees and charges. In other words, make sure you are not paying out more simply to earn rewards points.

So, how do you find the credit card that is best for you?

1. Decide what you need – Do you need a credit card for personal use, or will you be using it for business, as well? Do you need a high credit limit, or is flexibility and a low interest rate more important to you? It may be a smart idea to make your list of credit card must-haves before you begin your credit card search.
2. Compare current interest rates, fees, terms and rewards online – A quick search of the Internet will yield many websites offering current information regarding credit cards. You may want to begin your search for current interest rates on some of the most popular credit cards, and determine which companies are offering the best deals. You may also want to check current special offers, such as 0% balance transfers or promotional interest rates to see which ones work best for your situation.

You will also want to check some of the most popular rewards programs, as well, as you may find a rewards-type credit card that best fits your needs and wants. For example, if you are a frequent traveler, then you may want to check credit cards that feature airline reward points.

1. Sort through credit card offers – After you have done your research and compiled your list of must-haves, you can begin sorting through the credit card offers you have received in the mail. Shred all offers that you don’t accept, and make a pile of credit card offers that you want to research further. You may also want to check online offers for credit cards, as well.

Once you have narrowed your choice down to one or two credit cards, carefully read the terms and conditions of the credit card and, most importantly, make sure that you understand all of the card’s small print before entering into a contract with the company.