Many companies offer incentives when applying for one of their credit cards. The most common incentive an opportunity to receive a 10% discount on all items purchased when using the credit card for the first time. When you intend to make a big purchase, complete an application, receive the credit card (typically within several minutes), and then purchase the product(s) at the discount.

     After making the purchase, you can cancel the card or keep it. If you cancel the card, you may be able to apply for a new card in the future to receive the discount again.

     Ask the store's customer service department for any discounts or incentives when using their credit card. The reason for the incentives is to entice the consumer to purchase more merchandise than needed with the possibility of carrying a balance on the card at a very high interest rate, which is typically greater than 18%.

     WARNING: Always remember, too much credit can be a detriment to your credit history.


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