 TITLE: 7 Reasons to Get a New Credit Card This New Year CONTENT: 7\\. Take Your Credit to the Next Level\n--------------------------------------\nIf your credit isn't yet in good enough shape to qualify for the travel or cash back credit card of your choice, set your sights on a credit card that can get you there. Look into secured credit cards, which require a cash deposit that typically becomes your credit line. Since secured cards are typically for those new to credit or rebuilding from previous setbacks, the deposit protects the lender from the risk that you'll make purchases you can't pay back.\nBeyond the deposit requirement, a secured card works like any other credit card. But use it sparingly: Building credit is the goal of the product, and keeping your balance as low as possible will keep your credit score strong.\nOver time, your positive payment history and low credit utilization rate—the percentage of your credit limit you use—can help you build your credit and make it easier to get the card you want in the future. END