Creating a google adwords account

Sorry if this is a stupid question but can someone please help me make an adwords account, I have tried signing up but it keeps asking me for billing info before I can create an account and by the looks of things its actually going to charge me if I do give my bank details. I only want an account so I can use the google keyword tool, is there a way I can get an account for free?

Thanks

Yes, you can create an account for free, they only ask you billing info, if you are looking to run the campaign.

For the keyword tool, you do not need to create with billing info. As far as I know, where did it ask you billing info?

You should be able to use the keyword tool for free anyways. They are not going to charge you for that.

Google just want to ensure that if you do decide to spend, they are there ready to take your money. As long as you don't set up a campaign to spend, they won't charge you for anything.

Its free you don't need to pay for it.