Are you only paying the minimum payment each month? If you increased your payment amount every month by as little as $10, you could pay down your debt much faster

The big difference between a secured credit card and an unsecured credit card is that a savings deposit serves as collateral for a secured credit card. To get a secured card, you deposit money into a savings account. Depending upon the issuer's policy, you may not be able to withdraw this money until the account is closed.

Shopping for a credit card can seem like looking for a needle in a haystack, but following some simple steps can get you to your goal.

How quickly you can send in your credit card payment will affect your monthly interest charges. In the examples below, sending a payment close to the due date almost doubles the monthly finance charge on your balance.

Credit card allows you to make purchases up to the limit set by the issuer. You then pay off the balance in installments with interest payments. Your monthly payment can range from a minimum amount, set by your bank, to your entire outstanding balance.

Don't be fooled into thinking that banks provide credit to consumers for free. Most banks have fees that cardholders may pay depending on circumstance. Pay close attention to what you are being charged for the privilege of owning a card.

How and how often your credit card calculates your interest makes a big difference. Know what you are getting before you sign up.

If you get a lot of credit card solicitations in the mail or by telephone, it does not necessarily mean that you are a good credit risk. Credit card companies want people who will run up big balances. Having multiple credit cards can cause serious problems.

If you've had credit problems, you might have to settle for a card with a slightly higher rate. If you have poor or no credit, you may need a secured credit card. Once you have an idea of what you are looking for choose the card right for you by following these four steps.

Worksheet for Comparing Credit Card Offers