Banks are trying to regain market share after dumping riskier cardholders in the wake of the credit crisis. They’re being more cautious this time around, focusing on consumers who appear to be the most creditworthy — think 750 and up on a FICO score. The idea isn’t to get a new card in order to run up a balance and pile on debt; rather, get a new card and use it judiciously. While the inquiry a lender makes of your credit history deflates your score a little bit, the overall payoff could be big, especially if you get a new card with a high limit. A new line of untapped credit lowers your overall utilization ratio. Since your total debt load counts for 30% of your FICO score, a lower utilization ratio can give you a boost. Shop around; there are cards out there dangling substantial sign-up bonuses to lure new customers. We have seen card offers from Citi and Chase offering $100 cash back for new cardholders.