Avoiding Bad Credit Card Tips

Some credit cards are more treacherous than others. So, here are four features to avoid when considering a credit card.

Fees -- In many cases, you can find a card with no fees, but the same benefits. The exception is if the cards offer rewards that far exceed the annual fee.

Low credit limits -- If you exceed your limit, you will probably get an immediate rate hike as your card issuer hits you with its penalty interest rate. Plus, it would hurt your credit health since the ratio of your card balance to your limit determines 30 percent of your score.

Credit limit increase fees -- Some cards periodically increase your credit limit if you pay your bills on time, but they also charge a fee for each increase unless you opt out of such increases altogether.

Internet or phone-payment fees -- If you have to make a last-minute payment, many credit card companies will charge you $15 or more, essentially charging you a fee for the privilege of paying