Before you fill out your first credit card application, it’s important that you follow a few steps just to make sure you’re doing everything properly. If you follow these simple steps listed below, you shouldn’t have a problem with the application process.

First off, are you old enough?

This may sound stupid but you have to be at least 18 years old before you apply for a credit card, it’s the law. If you’ve received credit applications before you’ve turned 18, that’s ok. The credit card companies’ goal is to lure you in once you turn that right age. Until you’re 18, don’t bother applying for an application. Instead, do your research and find out exactly what you’re looking for.

What do you need it for?

This is probably one of the most important questions you should ask yourself before applying for your first credit card. Are you applying for it just to fit in with others? Are you applying for it to buy party supplies and things you don’t need? You as a card carrier have to responsible. The sole purpose you should get a credit card is to establish credit.

Establishing credit allows you to purchase a home in the future with a lower interest rate. It also helps you with car loans and anything credit score related. When you apply for your first card, you will realize you don’t receive a high credit limit. This is because you’re new to the credit card game. Once you proved yourself, your limit will higher over the years.

Read the terms

After looking at all of the credit cards available to you, make sure that you look at all of the terms the card has. The main terms you should look at are the APR rate, if the card has an annual fee, and what kind of rewards the card has. Even though the reward parts aren’t that important, it’s always nice if you receive something for every dollar you spend.

The APR rate is the most important term of your card. This is the rate you’ll pay on the balance that you don’t pay off in full. The higher the rate, the more you pay on your money. This is important that you find a card with a low rate. You’ll find with student credit cards that most cards will vary from 13% and on. Most credit cards though you’ll find that they offer a 0% intro rate for a certain period of time.

These are the important three steps you should take before applying for your first credit card. Experts also note that you should check into your credit report before applying for a credit card, even if it is your first card. This will ensure you that nothing suspicious is on your report. If you do by chance find something wrong, you can contact the FTC.