 TITLE: What to Know Before You Apply for a Store Credit Card CONTENT: Avoid Applying for Any Credit Card on a Whim\n--------------------------------------------\nWhether you're at the cash register, at the bank or on your computer, avoid applying for a credit card without thinking it through carefully.\nBefore you do anything, check your credit score to see where you stand and whether you have a good chance of getting approved. While many retail cards are available if you have limited or bad credit, most of the best rewards credit cards require good credit or better, which means a FICO credit score of 670 or higher.\nAlso, take some time to compare several credit card options before you pick one. For instance, one may offer a bigger introductory bonus, but another may provide better ongoing rewards rates that will give you more value over time.\nAs you shop around and consider which credit card is best for you, you'll have an easier time avoiding cards that aren't the right fit or could end up causing you to leave value on the table. END