Like thousands of other people across the country, your weekly mail is probably littered with envelopes stating, "You have been pre-approved" or "Apply now and receive 3 months interest free." Whatever the catch phrase on the envelope, credit card companies are constantly advertising and competing to get you to fill out an application for their little plastic card.

Well before you dive into the world of credit, interest rates, APR's and monthly statements, you will want to do your research. Credit cards are as common as sports in America and each comes with its own rules and regulations. Before you start filling out the latest credit card application you will need to find the one that will best fit your financial needs, and yes, even your personality.

The basic function of a credit card is the same for nearly every credit card company. They give you the capability of having instant money when you do not actually have cash to spend. However, when choosing a credit card there is a lot of fine print you will want to read so you do not get roped into spending more or being charged for a service you do not need.

To begin your credit card search you will want to compare credit cards and find the one that is best for you financially. This can be a daunting task because there are countless numbers of companies and types of cards available. You can begin your search with the basic question, Do I need a secured credit card or an unsecured credit card? Every type of credit card available is either classified as an unsecured or secured credit card.

The difference between a secured and unsecured credit card is based on previous credit history. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages depending on that history. We're here to help you understand that difference and help you make a choice before filling out the next credit card application that shows up in your mailbox.

The difference between secured and unsecured credit cards is really quite simple. Once you understand the difference you will be on your way to choosing the card that is right for you.

A secured credit card can be defined as one that is secured by collateral, usually in a monetary form. When using a secured credit card the credit card company will be assured payment by seizing your collateral if you fail to pay your monthly bill. Other forms of secure credit include a house mortgage or a car loan. If you default on a payment on a car our house the loaner will repossess them. If you default on a secured credit card, the company repossesses your cash.

An unsecured credit card on the other hand does not require collateral to be held against your credit. Instead credit card companies rely only on your promise that you will make the payments on your monthly statement. With an unsecured credit card there is nothing for the company to take from you other then more money that they gain in the form of high interest rates and late fees. Generally, people with a poor credit history will not be approved for unsecured credit cards as there is not assurance that the credit card company will receive payments.

The majority of credit cards today are classified as unsecured credit cards. However, if you have a history of bad credit whether in the form of a loan or have failed to pay credit card debt in the past, a secured credit card may better fit your needs.