Your Credit Card – Know It Like It’s Your Best

23 December 2010

Your Credit Card – Know It Like It’s Your Best Friend

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The use of credit cards in Australia is escalating possibly on the back of a good economy breeding confidence although do people know how to service this debt and how much it could be costing?

Australians owe $32 billion in credit card debt, according to Reserve Bank figures, and some experts predict this will balloon to almost $50 billion by 2009.

Thats a staggering figure and as it would it appear it’s definately on the rise with Baycorp Advantage, a credit information provider, saying that credit card applications were up 11 per cent on last year with 875,000 applications for credit cards in October, November and December.

This is the concern, only seven years ago, the fees incurred on cards was $136 million but they have now soared to a staggering $787 million. This is partly due to an increase in the charge for late payment from $20 to $29.

Analysts it would take five years of minimum repayments to pay off the $2399 shown by the Reserve Bank to be the average credit card debt in December. The average credit limit rose to $6754.

This probably doesn’t apply to Australia alone as the trends in other countries are very similar.

From these figures it could be seen that there is a lack of knowledge on how to use credit effectively and safely and also possibly a lack of research into the terms and fees related to the particular card being used. Some say this could be due to the heavy marketing around bonus point systems shifting the customers decision making from ‘terms and conditions’ to ‘what do i get for nothing’.

Consumer groups have renewed calls for reform of the Uniform Credit Code to stop banks promoting unsolicited limit increases, and requiring them to print warnings of how long it will take to repay their debt at current interest rates.

Credit cards are not all bad though. Credit cards are convenient and safer to carry than cash. You can also earn rewards or get cash back on your purchases. They can also help build your credit rating. Sensible and disciplined use are important as well as a good understanding of how your particular card applies charges and choosing the right credit card for you in the first instance.

The important factors should be considered when applying for and using a credit card. Asking questions of yourself is probably the first step. For example ‘Do I need a credit card’ and ‘Will the payments fit into my budget’.

Choosing the right card should involve at least reviewing :

The interest rate – Some cards offer an attractive honeymoon rate although it is the rate after this that is important.

The interest free period – this can differ from card to card.

How is the interest calculated – from the time of purchase or time of statement?

The annual fee – some time bonus systems are offset by this annual fee.

Administration fees – are there any and what are they?

Late payment & over the limit fees – when does it apply and how much?

Other charges – what other charges are there?

Cash advance – if you are going to use review the conditions carefully and be aware of how it works and what charges apply.

Credit cards are a useful item by offering buyers protection in some cases by being able to cancel transactions, offering convienience by eliminating the need to carry cash and an almost necessity for travellers. Research and discipline are the keys success.

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Why The Best Credit Cards Sometimes Arent The Most Obvious

19 December 2010

Why The Best Credit Cards Sometimes Arent The Most Obvious

If you are just applying for your first credit card or are simply looking for a new credit card to add to the fold, one thing is for sure… you most likely want to find the best credit card possible.

So, what is the best credit card available today?

Unfortunately, I cant answer that question for you. There are many different types of credit cards and like the shoes and clothes you wear, this isnt a case of one size fits all.

What you really need to determine before trying to find the best credit card, is what things are important to you? Do you plan on carrying a high balance month to month? Will you be paying off your credit card balance in full at the end of each billing period? Would you like to earn travel rewards or shopping credits? How about gas points?

As you can see, there are many different reasons to get a credit card and knowing what you want out of your credit card is very important.

Some other factors that you should really take into consideration when applying for a credit card are things like annual fees, minimum payment requirements, and grace periods offered. Take all of these things into account when youre making a decision on which credit card to apply for.

Hopefully this short article has given you some helpful food for thought on how to find the best credit card for your individual situation and needs. Remember, there isnt one particular card that is best for everyone so its vital that you really narrow down what is important to you in a credit card and find the cards that offer the most benefits in that category. Best of luck in your search for the perfect credit card, and remember to be responsible with that new plastic!

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Which Low Interest Credit Card Is Best – Variable or

16 December 2010

Which Low Interest Credit Card Is Best – Variable or Fixed Interest Cards?

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When applying for low interest credit cards, you may think you know what you are looking for. After all, it seems pretty clear. The lower the APR, the less money you will have to pay, right? In reality, this is not always the case. In fact, one factor you will need to take into consideration is whether the APR is variable or fixed. Then, you can make a far better decision when choosing from among the available low interest rate credit cards on the market.

Low Interest Credit Cards with Variable Interest Rates

Low interest credit cards with variable interest rates are those that fluctuate with the prime rate. The prime rate is the rate top United States banks pay to borrow money from the Federal Reserve. Therefore, you will often see interest rates written as the prime rate, plus an additional percentage APR in order to provide the bank with a profit.

When the prime rate is in a downward swing, as it has been in the past few years, these cards can be quite attractive to the consumer simply because the APR is lowered. On the other hand, these cards can have skyrocketing interest rates when the prime rate is soaring. In addition, many credit card companies place a minimum APR on the cards. This means the APR will never fall below a specific rate, regardless of where the prime rate stands. At the same time, your interest rate will increase as the prime rate increases – and you won’t see credit card companies placing caps on how high these rates can become.

Low Interest Credit Cards with Fixed Rates

Low interest credit cards with fixed rates are those with interest rates that do not fluctuate or change. For example, if a credit card offers a 7.99% fixed interest rate, it means the interest rate will not become higher or lower that 7.99% – no matter what the prime rate may be. A word of caution, however: credit card companies have the right to change a fixed rate to a higher fixed rate by simply sending you a 30 day written notice. These notices can be very unassuming and in small print, and simply slipped in with your monthly billing statement. Therefore, it is important for you to read all paperwork included with your bill and to keep an eye out for changes in your fixed rate.

The Introductory Rate

When you shop through the numerous cheap credit cards available, you most likely pay the majority of your attention to the introductory rate. Usually, introductory rates on low interest rate credit cards are minimal and fixed. In fact, it is not unusual to see cheap credit cards with APRs of 0.00%. What you need to look at, however, is the APR after the introductory period is complete and whether it is variable or fixed. This is particularly important if you do not foresee yourself being able to pay your balances in full after the introductory period is complete.

The post-introductory period rate is often referred to as the “go rate.” With most low interest credit cards, the go rate is variable and based on the prime rate. The go rate is not always the same from customer to customer because credit card companies generally offer better APRs to the customers with the best credit history.

Deciding Which is Best

Determining which of these types of low interest credit cards is best for you depends on your financial situation. If you pay your balance in full at the end of each billing cycle, it really doesn’t matter if your rate is variable or fixed. On the other hand, it can be incredibly important if you do carry a balance. The perk to a fixed rate is that you are always sure of what your interest rate will be from month to month, so long as you make sure to read all information inserted along with your bill each month. This makes it easier to plan a budget and keep a closer eye on your finances. At the same time, you might save money in the long run by taking advantage of low interest credit cards with variable APRs when the prime rate is low. If you are disciplined enough to keep an eye on the fluctuating market and to take advantage of cheap credit cards when the rate is low, variable APR cards may be your best bet.

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Which Business Credit Card Is Best For You?

14 December 2010

If you have been a customer for long enough with a particular bank, they may offer business credit card facilities to you. That would be convenient, and the processing and approval of your business credit card application is likely to receive the fast-track treatment. But it may not necessarily be the best business credit card for your needs, so it wont hurt to look around at whats available before making your final decision.

There is intense competition these days in the business credit card market. This certainly is to your advantage. Here are some things for you to consider before choosing a business credit card provider:

Paying Off Your Balance: The Business credit card packages on offer from the various credit card issuers differ, as do the terms and conditions of use. You should determine whether you will be paying the full outstanding balance when it falls due or whether you intend making part payments towards this balance. If it is you intention to pay the full amount, you will probably be better off with a charge card, where all charges made are payable within 30 days. Charge cards set no spending limits. If it is you intention to make part payments, a business credit card would be appropriate as it affords you the opportunity to pay off the balance over time. Credit cards normally have set spending limits.

Getting Your Rewards: If you are a frequent traveler, you can get business credit cards that offer you the opportunity to earn miles. Check for mile earnings ceilings and the amount of miles earned per $100 spent, when making your comparison. Beyond these travel points, you can also qualify for discounts or accumulate points for purchases made on your business credit card at participating merchants. The rewards system on most business credit cards are often designed to benefit small business owners. Be sure to read the fine print. It may be that some cards include fees and interest rates that negate any value you may receive from their rewards system.

Picking the Business Credit Card Issuer: One is really spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting credit card issuers. Naturally the biggest players are the huge national banks. Often the regional bank or local bank where you already keep your business accounts, may provide their business customers with attractively packaged business credit card offers, in order to retain their custom.

What is important to note is that whilst there are many companies that issue business credit cards, there are only a few card brands worth considering: Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and Discover. While you are shopping for a business credit card, it you should make a point of obtaining information from these card companies directly. They have business divisions – including one for small businesses – that can provide you with details on the business credit card options that would best suit your needs.

Monitoring Employee Spending: You can arrange for business credit cards to be issued to your key people. This will give you an effective means to monitor representation and business expenses. If you feel that a particular employee has abused the privilege, you should be able to call the bank and they should be able to give you a solution. You would not want to get stuck with having to pay unnecessary bills. You may want to reduce the charge ceilings for your employees in addition to them signing a legal undertaking to cover you should they end up abusing the cards.

Finding a business credit card that closely matches your business specific requirements has never been easier. Thanks to the competition between issuers, you also have the opportunity to pay reasonable fees and receive preferential treatment. For business owners, this is a fortuitous set of circumstances indeed.

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What’s The Best Way To Apply For A Credit Card?

12 December 2010

What’s The Best Way To Apply For A Credit Card?

Credit card is a common thing now in our society. There are several credit card companies out there that are persuading people to sign up for credit cards.

Credit cards are very advantageous especially in times of urgent situations. Aside from that, credit cards are also helpful in building credit history, which is also required when you apply for loans. Another use of a credit card is to improve your capability to obtain a private loan, acquire a job, make a purchase of a house, rent an apartment and buy a car. With credit cards, you’re able to exercise your personal accountability and independent lifestyle.

Why apply for one?
Most people need a credit card because of a wide variety of reasons. One major reason is that they don’t have the cash for paying for the bills hat they have. It’s helpful in the sense that you don’t need to carry cash with you when you want to buy something.

For those people who are thinking on applying for a credit card, you must “think first, before you leap.” There are various ways on how you can apply for a credit card. You can do it the online way or give a call to a trusted credit company. You can also answer the credit card application via mail.

Which card to apply for?
But remember that before you decide to apply for a credit card, you should do some comparison first on which credit card company will match your special needs. Check the annual percentage rate (APR) of the company. See if they offer the best bonus programs as well as APR rate. Most companies provide a low initial APR rate if the credit cards holders are still novice in the credit card industry. These companies have different bonus programs available for first-time card holders.

Another thing that you have to consider on your credit card application is what your credit limit is. Verify if there’s an annual fee needed to obtain the card. For that reason, take into consideration your income and credit score when thinking about how much your credit limit will be. You should not get a credit limit that is too high to avoid debts.

What to consider in applying?
There are lots of tips that you can utilize when you want to sign up for a credit card. Browse the internet and get some practical tips on how you can get the best credit card to suit your liking. Many websites now offer assistance to those who are caught up with the dilemma of which credit card to chose.

Apply for the card that gives you great deals. The internet has vast resources dealing with credit card comparison and credit card application tips. You can do the online search by checking what credit cards are available. Some of the popular credit cards used by people today are airline credit cards, student credit cards, business credit cards, interest credit cards and many others.

You can also talk to the credit card company regarding the questions that you have in mind when it comes to your credit limits and some bonus programs. Most credit card companies have representatives whom you can speak to about all of your concerns.

See to it that you’re through on your research before you get one. There are copious numbers of companies that you can choose based on your requirements. Think twice, thrice or a hundred times before you go and get the card. By this means you can be sure that you’re making best use of your time, money and effort.

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What’s The Best Credit Card For Me?

07 December 2010

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So, you have decided you need a credit card. However, you must remember that not all credit cards are created equally. Your friend’s credit card doesn’t mean that it is also the best for you. Before going to this bank and get its credit card, you must consider the several factors that you should take into consideration when deciding which credit card you want to get.

Some of those factors include:

o Interest rate. When you are the type of person that pays off your balance monthly, you would probably disregard the interest rate. Unfortunately, most people are having problems keeping with their credit card balance. Most people do carry a balance in their credit cards. If you sometimes late paying and carrying a balance, then it would be the best decision to have a credit card with a low interest rate. Having a card with a low interest rate save you a lot of money. You might disregard the difference between a 10 percent and 20 percent interest rate, but the difference could be significant if you have balances for a long period of time. Major credit card companies like Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and AMEX, have low interest versions of their credit card.

o Reward programs. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express and other major credit card companies have reward programs. Reward programs give you special privileges or services for being a credit card holder. Some of these programs include frequent flyer programs, where you are given one frequent flyer mile for each dollar spent. If you are quite a traveler, then a credit card with this program might be for you. Some offer cash-back options. Most common are discount offerings at retail stores or online chains.

o Annual fees. The annual fee is an important consideration, especially those who have a hard time paying off their balances monthly. If you think that the annual fee you have to pay to keep your card is way too high compared with the privileges you get from your card, it would be probably better to stop using the card.

o Member benefits. Credit cards promise various benefits. Some have travel protection as part of the benefits, while others offer roadside assistance. You have to consider your lifestyle in checking out a card’s benefits.

Remember: On choosing credit cards, choose wisely. If you need to, discuss your specific financial needs with your financial advisor.

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What Credit Card Offers Are Best For A College Student?

06 December 2010

What Credit Card Offers Are Best For A College Student?

Credit cards are no longer new. Almost every bank offers credit cards with different rates, terms and conditions. Credit cards do not just help those professionals who are already earning a living but as well as those who are just beginning or preparing to become a professional – the college students.

In the internet, there are so many articles, advertisements and websites that offer credit cards. These media even do flowery promises and alluring words just to get the attention of the student and would later apply. They have their own notion as to why they do such things. Primarily, their reason would be necessity.

As a college student, owning a credit card will not just be a luxury but more so a necessity. There are so many things that a college student needs to buy. Books and other school materials are one of the things a college must spend money into. With very limited cash, a college student may not be able to actually buy everything that he or she needs. There are also payments that he/she must look into like the apartment or the dormitory where he or she is staying in, the school fees, foods, etc. Credit card may not actually be the sole answer for financial assistance to a student but it can help him meet both ends.

When speaking of credit cards, two words that must come into the parents mind are responsibility and discipline. Parents have a very crucial role to do in guiding and guarding their children, though already in college, in spending their money. There are plenty of college students that graduated in deep debt caused by irresponsible use of credit cards.

There are so many credit card offers that a college student may choose from. However, before that, he must put in mind that most of the student credit cards offered offers high APR as compared to regular credit cards. What are the best offers that a college student must think about or must choose that will surely be a help to his studies? Check out the following.

-Reasonable APR – In general, student credit card APR are quite higher than the regular credit cards This is a way for the companies of securing their funds since they cater to people with limited resources to pay them. However, there are lending companies and banks that offer reasonable APRs Reasonable in the sense that it is not so much higher as compared to unsecured credit cards but not low enough like a secured credit card.

-Cash Advance – having a card that can withdraw an amount from an ATM is a great help for college students. Not all of the needs of the student that can be purchased can be charged in the credit card. There are college student credit cards that offer such.

-Balance transfer – this is very helpful for students who have multiple accounts or has extended accounts from parents. This will help them keep track with their money and responsibly spend it.

-Freebies – most often, banks and other companies gives rewards and rebates in every transaction or to every purchase charged in your credit card. Such offer is also not just for fun but also a help.

Try to search for a credit card online. There are so many offers that credit card companies offer to college students. Since every college student have different needs and taste, banks and lending companies try to introduce a variety of student credit cards that will fit every need of a college student.

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Visa Credit Card Offers: A Look At The Best

04 December 2010

Visa claims to be the nations leading payment brand. And rightly so: more than 500 million Visa credit cards circulate in the United States. For every $100 that consumers spend, approximately $14.60 is spent with a Visa-branded product. Visa offers a large variety of credit cards for both consumers and businesses. Its unique corporate structure, emphasis on security, and solid card options make it one of the most popular credit card issuers today.

Corporate Structure

Visa stands for Visa International Service Association. The company consists of six different entities. Each segment focuses on one particular geographical area, providing offers and meeting regulations that vary from region to region. Visa does not directly issue its cards. Rather, it consists of an association of member banks that lend cards to consumers and small businesses.

Visa is one of the most universal credit cards available. You can swipe a Visa card in over 150 countries across the globe. More than 20 million merchants accept Visa cards throughout the world.

Top-notch Security

Visa works hard to provide reliable security for its cardholders. Its Continuous Monitoring system is a vital part of this system. The program quickly identifies unusual card transactions. This includes purchases that are more expensive than usual or a shipping address that is different from the billing address. It also detects changes in the name, birth date, or social security number of the cardholder. If you are a victim of identity theft, Visa offers free help and counseling services.

The 3-digit code on Visa credit cards is another one of their security features. This code, called the Cardholder Verification Value, or CW2, is found on the back of the card. The information can be provided when making purchases. It ensures that the cardholder is carrying the actual credit card as an item is bought. If the number does not match with the one in the system, the activity is immediately investigated.

Visas Top Cards

Visa offers a variety of solid credit card options for consumers. The Chase Platinum Visa is the perfect card for those with good credit who want the benefits of a platinum card and a rewards program. Through the rewards program, you earn one point for each dollar that you spend on purchases. You can then redeem those points for cash back, travel options, a variety of merchandise, or gift cards. If you qualify, youll get a low interest rate and a 0% interest introductory rate for up to 12 months on purchases and balance transfers. Theres no annual fee with this card.

The Platinum Plus Visa card, issued by the Bank of America, is another excellent credit card option. Through this plan, youll enjoy platinum benefits such as auto rental insurance, travel and emergency assistance services, and purchase protection. It offers a credit line of up to $25,000. This card offers a 0% introductory rate for the first six billing cycles on all purchases, balance transfers and cash advance checks. Theres no annual fee and the interest rate is low. This is an all-around solid card.

Visa continues to improve its security features and serve its worldwide cardholders. With a Visa credit card, youll enjoy member benefits and virtually universal card acceptance. Find the card that best fits your needs and sign up for it today. Then use Visa to help you get through life, one purchase at a time.

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Using Secured Credit Cards To Establish The Best Credit History

29 November 2010

Using Secured Credit Cards To Establish The Best Credit History

Credit cards are used by a lot of people today. Besides, with a credit card, you can purchase the items you need in your everyday life without the need to carry any money at all. The bank will be the one to pay for your purchases but you will also be required to pay it back in a monthly basis. The bank will send you the billing statement that will contain all the billing information, such as the items or services you purchased and also the interest.

However, most banks will require you to have a good credit rating first. A credit rating is important. It will determine if you can get a mortgage or in this case, a credit card. Without a credit rating, you will find it hard to apply for a credit card.

A credit rating will contain all the necessary information that the bank will need whether they can issue you a credit card or not. It will contain information, such as if you recently applied for credit, how long you had the credit, what type of credit you have (loans, mortgage, credit cards), how much you owe, and also your payment history.

A good credit rating will get you the exact credit card you need.

However, if you don’t have a credit rating, you will really find it hard to apply for a regular credit card but it doesn’t mean that you can’t apply for one. There is one way that can help you establish a credit rating and at the same time, get a credit card. This is called a secured credit card. This particular credit card is great for people who are looking for a way to establish a credit history or to repair their credit rating.

Getting a secured credit card is one of the best ways to establish a credit history. So, you may now ask what the difference between a regular credit card and a secured credit card. A secured credit card uses the money you deposit in the account. This card will also have a balance limit that will not be more than the amount you deposited in the account.

Once you deposited an amount on the credit card, you can now use the credit card at once. With this kind of feature, it can be both beneficial to the lender and the borrower. Not only that this will establish a good credit history for the borrower, but it will also minimize the risk of overusing the credit card because he or she is only limited to spend the amount they deposit.

For the lender, a secured credit card will minimize the risk of not being paid back by the borrower. The secured credit cards also doesn’t have an annual fee that you have to pay for.

Establishing a good credit history will start once you start using your secured credit card. Also, you can use the secured credit card for as long as you want. In time, as you build your credit rating, you can now apply for regular or unsecured credit cards.

The main drawback on secured credit cards is that it will usually have a higher interest rate than most unsecured credit cards.

Secured credit cards are great for people who are just starting out on establishing a good credit history. However, you should always make sure that you can afford to pay for the monthly bill in order to establish a good credit rating. Unsecured credit cards require you to be responsible, if you think that you are not responsible enough in terms of spending, you shouldn’t apply for an unsecured credit card yet.

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Tips on Finding the Best Credit Card Deals

25 November 2010

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If you are looking for a new credit card, it is certainly to your advantage to search for credit card deals. If you do your homework, you could step into some of best credit card deals offered. Getting a new credit card should not be a spur of the moment thing. Your credit score can strongly affect your life, so you should take anything involved with it very seriously. You should
always be well informed about any credit card you are applying for. This means you may need to ask questions and read all of the fine print. Use these tips to help you with your search for great credit card deals.

New Cardholder Incentives

Some of the best credit card deals include new cardholder incentives. The best credit card deals are those that allow new cardholders to make purchases for an extended period of time, without interest charges. Some will offer this for sixty days while others may offer this deal for up to six
months. These are great because if cardholders wait until they are making a major purchase, they can save a lot on interest while they quickly pay it off.

Rewards Programs

Other great credit card deals include rewards programs. Rewards programs may vary from card to card. Most of them work the same way however. The more the cardholder uses their card, the more rewards they will accumulate. Rewards may be in the form of flight points, cash back, or other
miscellaneous prizes. These are great deals for cardholders that use their cards quite a bit. Not much is better than being rewarded for spending money.

Interest Rates

Of course everyone looking for a new credit card should consider good credit card deals involving interest rates. If you can get a credit card with a low interest rate, then you are getting a great deal. Many credit cards will hold interest rates of up to 22%. So, if you can get a lower rate, you are doing great.

Annual Fees

Take notice of annual fees when looking for credit card deals. Cards with high annual fees are certainly not worth your time. The best credit card deals include no annual or monthly fees. This allows you to be charged nothing if you dont use your card. With many people keeping credit
cards for emergency purposes only, this is the best way to go.

Credit card deals usually dont jump out at you, so they do require a little research. Make a list of what is important to you personally when it comes to your credit card and number them in order of importance. Try to find a credit card that matches all of those items. When you do find that card, you know you have found the best credit card deal available for you.

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