The prospect of getting your first credit card can be exciting. It can serve as a sort of rite of passage in your quest for financial independence and security. Your first credit card can also be a huge responsibility.

If you’re a first-time credit card applicant, don’t make the mistake of rushing to apply for the first credit card offer presented to you. Choosing a bank to do business with is a serious decision which can have long-term implications, and it isn’t a contract to enter into lightly.

There are several things you should do before filling out a single credit card application:

1. Start building an employment history.

Salary requirements are one of the most common prerequisites for credit card approval. Holding a steady job or having a verifiable self-employment history will go a long way towards helping you get approved for an attractive credit card offer. Salary requirements vary between lenders and cards. For example, as a permanent Australian resident you would have to earn at least $35,000 per annum (p.a.) to qualify for a Citibank Gold Credit Card. By searching for cards tailored to first time applicants, however, you may find fewer restrictions. The ANZ First Visa is one such card, with only a $15,000 p.a. salary requirement for permanent residents.

2. View your credit report.

Before applying for your first credit card, get a copy of your credit report from the two major credit bureaus (Veda Advantage and Dun & Bradstreet). Verify that your contact, employment, and income information is correct. Also verify that there are no errors (you wouldn’t want to discover you’re a victim of identity theft only after being denied credit). If you discover errors, contact each credit bureau to have them corrected before applying for a credit card.

3. Do your research.

Credit card offers designed for first time applicants may have fewer restrictions. However, because you are considered a bigger risk, you may also pay higher fees and interest rates. You may be able to get a higher credit limit or a more attractive deal on interest and fees by applying for your first credit card with your existing bank. This is because they already have a relationship with you and have insight into your financial history. Rather than applying for the first credit card available to you, take the time to compare fees, interest rates, and benefits or rewards. You also may want to apply for a limited use card, such as a store card or gas card, which allows you to build a credit history while somewhat limiting your ability to charge more than you can afford on everyday purchases.

Choosing your first credit card is an important decision. Make sure that you’re prepared for the added responsibilities, and understand your credit report and how your new card may affect your credit history if not used sensibly. What you do before applying for your first credit card can go a long way towards helping you build a stronger financial future.