Monday, September 22, 2008

Low Interest Credit Card Offers

When searching for credit cards, most consumers prefer one with a low APR. Nevertheless, when confronted with attractive offers, perks or rewards, the interest rate may suddenly become just a secondary factor.

The fact is, reward credit cards usually come with much higher interest than non-reward cards. The interest rate of reward credit cards ranges from 14% to 19%, depending on the issuer and the type of reward program. Despite this, many consumers still prefer them over regular credit cards because of the promise to earn bonuses, incentives, discounts and other privileges.

Why Get a Low Interest Credit Card?

Why should you be concerned about the interest rate? Many consumers are advised to pay off their monthly balances in full to avoid the additional APR. However, even if your goal is to pay off your charges in full, unexpected circumstances may force you to submit only the minimum due and carry over your balance to the next month. When this happens, your bill can increase by 14% or more because of the interest.

Even worse, your credit card company may increase your interest rate by as much as 25% to 30% because of late payments. The changes in the Prime Rate can also dramatically affect your credit card’s APR at any time. Clearly, getting a credit card with a low APR can protect you from the risk of bad debt.

*Check out list: low interest cards


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Wednesday, September 10, 2008

How to Maximize Returns from Reward Credit Card

Okay, so you’ve applied for a rewards credit card. Now what? How can you maximize your returns for your reward credit card? If you’ve chosen the right reward credit card, then you should have no problem in earning points more quickly. Consider what type of reward credit card you have and see if it matches your spending habits. If not, then it’s not yet too late to make a switch. If you’re still planning about getting a reward credit card, then take your time in choosing the one that is most appropriate for your needs and lifestyle.

Choose your credit card well

How do you normally use your credit card? Do you usually use it to pay for your monthly expenses such as groceries and utility bills? Does a large amount of your budget go to your car maintenance and gas expenses? Or do you travel a lot and spend more on hotel accommodations, car rentals and plane tickets? Based on your lifestyle, you can choose whether a cash-back credit card, a gas rewards credit card, or a travel rewards credit card will be best for you.

Check your credit report

Reward credit cards with the best deals are only offered for those who have excellent credit rating. Check your credit report and see if there are some steps you can do to improve your credit.

Take Advantage of the 0% Introductory Offer

Whichever rewards credit card you choose, there is usually a 0% introductory offer that you can avail off. The best ones are those that give a 0% APR on both purchases and balance transfers for a whole period of 12 months. Most reward credit cards come with a high interest rate so if you choose the one with 0% APR on purchases and balance transfer for a whole year, that would be a great savings and convenience on your part. There are credit cards that give a reasonable interest rate even after the introductory period expires and that’s the reward credit card you want to have.


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