 TITLE: Why You Should Apply for a Credit Card Based on Your Credit Score CONTENT: There are many types of credit cards out there, and choosing the right one for you comes down to factors such as what you want from a card, how you plan to use it, and your credit score.\nFor example, if you just need a card for occasional large purchases, your priority may be a low-interest card. If you need some relief from high-interest debt, you could consolidate it at a lower interest rate with a balance transfer credit card that offers a 0% intro period on transfers. If your goal is to earn rewards from everyday spending, you may prefer a cash back or travel rewards credit card.\nThese are all types of unsecured credit cards, meaning no deposit or collateral is required to open an account. If you're new to establishing credit or have had troubles that harmed your credit scores, you may need to start with a secured credit card first. These cards require a deposit as collateral, which is typically then used as your line of credit. It's geared toward those who need help building or improving their credit. After showing months of responsible card use, you may be able to qualify for an unsecured credit card with better terms, benefits and spending limits, if the issuer offers that option.\nYour FICO® Score☉ , the most common score used by lenders, is graded on a scale of 300 to 850—and the higher your score, the better the terms you're likely to receive. Here is how these credit scoring ranges are categorized by FICO:\n*   300 - 579: Very poor\n*   580 - 669: Fair\n*   670 - 739: Good\n*   740 - 799: Very good\n*   800 - 850: Exceptional\nWhen you research credit cards you're considering, you may see preferred credit score ranges for those cards. This can help you ensure you're applying for a card within your range.\nFor example, the Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa® for Rebuilding Credit is targeted to consumers with credit scores ranging from poor to good. Depending on what you're looking for in a card, if your credit falls into this range, this could be a good option for you.\nOn the other hand, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a prestigious rewards card with major perks, but it's best suited to consumers with exceptional credit. There are also numerous cards available to those with good credit and above.\nWhat to Do if You Get Denied for a Credit Card\n----------------------------------------------\nWhen you don't qualify for a credit card, the issuer is required to provide an adverse action letter informing you why it denied your application. You're also entitled to receive a free copy of your credit report to help you understand the reason for the denial.\nIf you're denied a credit card you really wanted, you can call the issuer and ask that they reconsider. However, you may need to provide additional information that wasn't in your original application, such as additional sources of income or savings.\nThe issuer may turn you down, at which point you need to decide whether to apply for a different card or pause to work on improving your credit score. If you take some time to build your credit, you're more likely to get approved for new accounts in the future or cards with better benefits and terms. Paying all your bills on time and paying down credit card balances are the best places to start, as together they make up 65% of your FICO® Score.  \nAn Easy Way to Give Your Score a Boost\n--------------------------------------\nImproving your credit score can take time, but there is one way to expedite the process. With Experian Boost™† , you can get credit for on-time utility, cellphone and video streaming service payments, possibly seeing an immediate increase in your score. If you try Experian Boost before you apply for a credit card, you may find it easier to get approved or land more favorable terms. END