With numerous banks and credit companies in Israel, choosing the right credit card can save you hundreds of shekels a year and earn valuable rewards. Don't just settle for your bank's default offer.

1. Understand the Key Cost: The "Havad" (Commission) This is the fee the card issuer charges merchants, but it's also the pool from which your rewards are funded. Cards with higher "Havad" typically offer better rewards, but may have an annual fee.

2. Identify Your Spending Profile Your best card depends on where you spend your money.

• The Supermarket Shopper: Look for cards that offer high cashback or points at chains like Shufersal, Rami Levy, and Yenot Bitan.

• The Frequent Diner: Cards that offer double points or special discounts at restaurants.

• The Traveler: A card that offers travel insurance, lounge access, and points that can be converted to airline miles (e.g., with Isracard's "Points for Miles" program).

• The All-Round Spender: A card with a solid, flat-rate cashback on all purchases.

3. Key Features to Compare

• Annual Fee: Many good cards have no fee, but premium cards with a fee can be worth it for high spenders.

• Payment Flexibility (Tzir Briut): Options to split large purchases into interest-free installments.

• Insurance Benefits: Travel insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty.

• App & Service Quality: A user-friendly app for managing payments and tracking rewards is crucial.

4. Where to Compare Use independent Israeli comparison websites like "Bitzua" or "Moneynet" to get an unbiased view of the latest offers from Isracard, Cal, Max, and the banks.

A few hours of research can put money back in your pocket every time you shop.