Get A Credit Card With A Low Interest Rate

24 February 2010

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Before you choose a credit card it would be wise to first find out the interest rates offered by all the credit card companies and banks. While you compare credit card companies and banks, take note of the ones with low interest rates and offer the best benefits. Dont miss the fine print as that is where the most important information is usually given. Fine prints almost always specify the conditions applied on using their service.

It is generally a wise decision to go with a credit card that has a low interest rate. A low interest rate would almost always mean that using the credit wouldnt eat up your savings.

One of the strategies of many banks and credit card companies to attract members is to offer an introductory low interest rate then hike up the rate after a certain period. It is therefore advisable to inquire how long the initial low interest rate would last.

To switch to them, some credit card companies and banks would waive fees if you transfer balances to them from your old card. The fees asked by banks for transfers are actually interest rates in disguise. Make sure that a low fee, which is equivalent to a low interest rate, is charged to you when transferring or you could end paying much more than you actually have to for clearing your debt.

One thing you could do is pay for balance transfers through pre printed checks. Your best option is to transfer balances to over the phone by calling up the customer service line of the bank or company. Doing such would cost a lot less or nothing at all and because you chose a card with a low interest rate you know your expenses would be lower the next time.

It is al important for you to know that incentives such as short term low interest rate will eventually rise even without due warning from your bank or credit card company.

You could always ask the bank or company to give you a low interest rate provided that you have a decent credit history with the company or bank. If they refuse to give you a low interest rate then you can always switch to a service that offers you a better deal.

Remember to use your credit card wisely. Keep a tab on your expenses while using this card, ensure your dues are cleared regularly and ensure that the low interest rate remain low.

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Choosing the Best Low Interest Rate Credit Cards

18 February 2010

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In the age of plastic money, everyone is trying to cash in on the best credits provided by banks which makes credit cards a buzzword today. But the interest rates on these credit cards make people wary of using them. It is therefore, very important to find low interest credit cards. There are various options available in the market and we will help you choose low interest rate credit cards and cheap credit cards.

Low Interest Credit Cards

With banks heavily commercializing the credit card, there have been a plentitude of low interest credit cards. Many banks provide zero percent APR (Annual Percentage Rate) on balance transfers and purchases made during the first 12 months. These credit cards offer you safe, secure, and free online transactions and account management tools.

Many credit cards offer cash back on purchases made by you. You just have to find the best percentage of cash back. You will also get some points when you buy purchase things like a new car, an SUV or perhaps a Sedan. The benefits do not end here as you also may be exempted from the annual fees. Last but not the least; you may get excellent credits along with all these extra facilities. Many a times, you get rewards and prizes if you meet certain norms. This is how the low interest credit cards have really clicked with the populace.

Making Low Interest Rate Credit Cards Work for You

If you are unable to pay off your card in full every month and you are worried about the increasing debts every month, then the low interest rate credit cards are just what you wanted. As compared to the other credit cards that charge 16 to 18 percent, these cards will charge you around 5 to 9 percent interest. You can easily save $400 in the very first year on a revolving card of $4000 balance.

Cheap credit cards that offer low interest rates are advertised prominently, but these ads fail to provide one important piece of information. Only a small number of people qualify for credit cards with low interest rates. If you are among the high credit rating group with high salary then you can expect to get lucky and avail of these credit cards with low interests.

When opting for such a credit card one should make sure that the annual fee or its APR is zero. In fact, you should insist on getting zero APR. Most of the fake card companies may ask you for $50 to $100 annual fee.

How Can You Save Money With Low Interest Rate Credit Cards?

Often, you will see that the credit card companies provide low interest rates on a credit card as an introductory offer. But this lasts for a very short period, that spans to 6 months max. Then, the interest rate goes high and the low introductory rate quickly disappears. The rates charged by these companies may seem lucrative in the beginning but later, it becomes a burden as the interest increases.

Low interest rate credit cards come to your rescue when you want to pay back the money before the introductory offer expires. The credit card with low APR plays a vital role in saving your money. Also, keep in mind that if the introductory rate jumps from 0 straight to 15 percent then it is not the right card for you. You just have to ignore such an interest rate and the credit card of course!

In some situations, high interest credit cards can be the best credit card when you plan to own it for an extended period of time. When you choose a fixed low APR credit card or a cheap credit card, you will know what your interest rates are going to be. Low interest credit cards are therefore the best options as they provide the best service with low interest and rewards on purchases made by you.

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Chase Credit Cards: The Best Chase Offers In Review

22 January 2010

As a leader in todays credit industry, Chase provides millions of Americans with the financing they need. This companys success story can be summed up in one word: options. Chase offers hundreds of credit cards, and each one is designed for different needs. This is great news for customers. It means that the best card for your lifestyle can be found at Chase. To help you find the right Chase credit card, heres a look at three of the top offers on todays market.

Chase Platinum Visa Card

If you have good credit and want an all-around solid card, the Chase Platinum Visa Card is what you need. This card comes with no annual fee. Youll also enjoy the initial 0% interest rate for up to twelve months on purchases and balance transfers. In addition to these benefits, you can participate in the cards reward program. You will earn one point for each dollar that you spend on purchases. You can then redeem those points for cash, merchandise, travel options or gift cards. Youll also have access to additional perks, such as travel accident insurance, car rental insurance, and free online access to your account.

Chase Free Cash Rewards Visa Card

Getting cash back is a good option, and if thats what youre interested in, the Chase Free Cash Rewards Visa Card is the one for you. With this rewards program, youll earn one point for each dollar that you spend. Every time you reach 2,500 points you will be sent a $25 check. Or you can choose to receive a $25 gift certificate from a variety of merchants and retailers. And with the bonus of earning an additional 1,000 bonus points with your first purchase, you will be on the fast track for earning cash back.

Chase Flexible Rewards Platinum Visa

If you want to be rewarded for using your card but cant make up your mind on how to do so, the Chase Flexible Rewards Platinum Visa is the best card for you. Through this program, just like the others, you will earn one point for every dollar that you spend on general purchases. Then you can decide how to use your points. Choose between airline tickets, hotel visits, car rentals and more. With no annual fee and a low interest rate for those who qualify, this card is a valuable option. The toughest decision youll have to make is how to use your reward points.

It is important to note that some of the cards Chase offers include an evaluation of your credit history. Depending on your credit rating, you may be given a lower or higher interest rate. Also, the length of time that the introductory features apply may vary depending on your credit score. Before applying, make sure you read the fine print carefully. Regardless of the interest rate you receive, if you pay off your balance each month, you wont have to worry about extra finance charges.

If you are looking for options, Chase has them. Whether you want a flexible rewards program or cash back, you will find what you need with Chase credit cards. Join the millions of Americans that are Chase cardholders and apply online today. The options and benefits are bound to surpass your credit expectations.

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Choosing the Best Low Interest Rate Credit Cards

20 December 2009

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In the age of plastic money, everyone is trying to cash in on the best credits provided by banks which makes credit cards a buzzword today. But the interest rates on these credit cards make people wary of using them. It is therefore, very important to find low interest credit cards. There are various options available in the market and we will help you choose low interest rate credit cards and cheap credit cards.

Low Interest Credit Cards

With banks heavily commercializing the credit card, there have been a plentitude of low interest credit cards. Many banks provide zero percent APR (Annual Percentage Rate) on balance transfers and purchases made during the first 12 months. These credit cards offer you safe, secure, and free online transactions and account management tools.

Many credit cards offer cash back on purchases made by you. You just have to find the best percentage of cash back. You will also get some points when you buy purchase things like a new car, an SUV or perhaps a Sedan. The benefits do not end here as you also may be exempted from the annual fees. Last but not the least; you may get excellent credits along with all these extra facilities. Many a times, you get rewards and prizes if you meet certain norms. This is how the low interest credit cards have really clicked with the populace.

Making Low Interest Rate Credit Cards Work for You

If you are unable to pay off your card in full every month and you are worried about the increasing debts every month, then the low interest rate credit cards are just what you wanted. As compared to the other credit cards that charge 16 to 18 percent, these cards will charge you around 5 to 9 percent interest. You can easily save $400 in the very first year on a revolving card of $4000 balance.

Cheap credit cards that offer low interest rates are advertised prominently, but these ads fail to provide one important piece of information. Only a small number of people qualify for credit cards with low interest rates. If you are among the high credit rating group with high salary then you can expect to get lucky and avail of these credit cards with low interests.

When opting for such a credit card one should make sure that the annual fee or its APR is zero. In fact, you should insist on getting zero APR. Most of the fake card companies may ask you for $50 to $100 annual fee.

How Can You Save Money With Low Interest Rate Credit Cards?

Often, you will see that the credit card companies provide low interest rates on a credit card as an introductory offer. But this lasts for a very short period, that spans to 6 months max. Then, the interest rate goes high and the low introductory rate quickly disappears. The rates charged by these companies may seem lucrative in the beginning but later, it becomes a burden as the interest increases.

Low interest rate credit cards come to your rescue when you want to pay back the money before the introductory offer expires. The credit card with low APR plays a vital role in saving your money. Also, keep in mind that if the introductory rate jumps from 0 straight to 15 percent then it is not the right card for you. You just have to ignore such an interest rate and the credit card of course!

In some situations, high interest credit cards can be the best credit card when you plan to own it for an extended period of time. When you choose a fixed low APR credit card or a cheap credit card, you will know what your interest rates are going to be. Low interest credit cards are therefore the best options as they provide the best service with low interest and rewards on purchases made by you.

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Credit Cards and Retirement

17 December 2009

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Going into retirement is one of the best things in your life. This is the time when you get to relax and enjoy a slower pace of life in peace. However, being able to sustain a lifestyle that is comparable to the one that you had before retirement requires some sound planning. This means that you should either own income generating assets, a large 401 (k) payout or a huge pile of cash that will let you live off interests for the rest of your days.

Another aspect of retirement involves the issue of debt. Being retired also means that you need to be more risk averse. This stems from the fact that you may no longer have the ability to generate income to cover for huge debt or losses. Similarly, high interest credit cards with rolled over balances are often sources of snowballing debt.

With this, you should try to pay off your outstanding credit card debt before you go into retirement. You could try out balance transfers and transfer some of your credit card debt into credit cards that charge lower or 0% APR for an introductory period. This way, you avoid paying for interests while you pay off your credit card balances.

Another method to convert your high interest debt into lower interest debt is through a debt consolidation loan. This way, all your credit card debt will be paid off by your debt consolidation loan. Ultimately, you will just need to repay the debt consolidation loan without having to worry about multiple credit card repayments.

The two methods shown above will only help you reduce the snowballing effect of your credit card debt. However, you will still have to pay off your debt over a period of time. Therefore, the best approach is not to have credit card debt at all. This can be accomplished easily if you set some ground rules for yourself.

First, limit yourself to just two credit cards for emergency use. Pay off any outstanding credit card debt from the other cards and cut them up. Make it a point to not use more than 40% of your credit limit. Overusing your credit card can result to high interest charges and escalating debt. Its also wise to pay off entire credit card balances without rolling over any amount to the following month. All these good habits in managing credit card debt will definitely help you with your finances through your retirement age.

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Best Credit Card Balance Transfer Rate: It Pays To Shop

03 December 2009

Best Credit Card Balance Transfer Rate: It Pays To Shop Around

Smart shopping for 0% APR credit cards can save consumers hundreds of dollars in interest charges. Many consumers do not think to shop around for credit cards. However, with 60 percent of grocery store purchases being made with credit cards, the decision as to which card the consumer uses can have an impact on how much is paid in interest. One way you can save money in interest charges is to shop around for a 0% APR credit card to transfer existing balances to. The concept of shopping for the best interest rates is not new for purchases such as homes and cars, but so few consumers stop to think about shopping around for the best credit card deal.

0% APR credit cards save consumers money

It is possible for you to save hundreds of dollars a year by transferring balances to a 0% APR credit card. Here is how it works: A consumer applies for a new credit card with a special introductory interest rate of 0% APR for balance transfers. After gaining approval, the consumer transfers the balance of his or her credit cards to the new card. Some companies may waive the balance transfer fee, but a standard fee is usually a small percentage of the transferred balance. Whether the old card has a low 8.9% APR, or whether it has a higher 15.9% APR, the potential savings are well worth the transfer. For the entire introductory period (usually 6 to 12 months) it is possible for consumers to avoid paying interest on their credit card debt.

Sorting through 0% APR credit card deals

Some web sites provide you with an objective way to look at credit card offers. It is even possible to use a calculator to figure out how much you can save by transferring balances to a 0% APR credit card. Consumers receive the information they need to help them decide on the credit card balance transfer offer that works best for them. Objective side-by-side comparisons allow a more complete picture of available credit cards. When you find a card that you like, it is also possible to apply for that card instantly from the web site. Helpful links to the credit card companies allow you to receive instant approval on their credit cards.

A word of caution

A 0% APR credit card balance transfer is a financial tool that can greatly benefit consumers. However, as with all financial tools, it is important to use it wisely. Consumers should be aware that failure to pay at least the minimum payment on time can result in an immediate end to the introductory period. Many credit cards, however, provide an automatic debit system or an online bill pay option. This can help consumers set up automatic payments that ensure that there are no late payments.

Shopping around for the best bargain is a way of life for many. Applying that rule to credit card applications can mean that you get to keep more of your hard earned cash.

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Balance Transfer Credit Cards – Finding the Best Available

22 November 2009

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Balance transfer credit cards are those that make an excellent choice for transferring balances from one card to the other. The main purpose behind transferring balances is to remove debt from a card with a higher interest rate to one with a lower interest rate. In this way, the consumer can save money by reducing or even eliminating finance charges. When looking for the best balance transfer credit cards, it is important to look at a variety of factors.

The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is one of the first factors a consumer should consider when looking for the best balance transfer credit cards. Credit card companies are hoping to steal your business away from other credit card companies. As a result, they often make special introductory offers with lowered interest rates for balance transfers. In many cases, this APR will even be 0.00%. Be sure to find the balance transfer credit card offering the lowest APR, and then only use that card for your balance transfer. Don’t use it to make any purchases. This is what the credit card companies are hoping consumers will do so they can assess finance charges on the purchases they make with their card.

The length of the special introductory APR varies from card to card. Sometimes, the length is also dependent upon the applicant’s credit history. It is important to be sure how long this period lasts and to set goals to have the balance paid in full once the introductory period is complete. The best balance transfer credit cards will keep the special introductory rate in effect on the card for the life of the loan. In other words, the APR stays the same until it has been paid off entirely. For consumers that will not be able to pay off the balance within the introductory period, this is certainly the best way to go.

Most credit cards assess fees when making balance transfers. These fees are generally determined as a percentage of the total amount of funds transferred. Most commonly, balance transfer fees are 3% of the amount transferred. Many balance transfer credit cards will, however, waive these fees during the introductory period. It is best for consumers to choose these balance transfer credit cards. Otherwise, they may be paying large amounts in fees, negating the savings in finance charges.

Some balance transfer credit cards require initiating balance transfers at the time of application for the card. Yet others allow balance transfers to be completed throughout the duration of the introductory period. The best balance transfer credit cards are the former, simply because they allow for more flexibility. Consumers who are sure they will not need to transfer balances later may, however, be happy with a credit card that only allows transfers to be made at the time of application.

Some balance transfer credit cards place restrictions on the types of balances that can be transferred. For example, some business credit cards only allow business expenses to be eligible for introductory rates. It is important for consumers to be sure to understand what type of balances can be transferred before applying for a card to ensure it meets their needs.

Many balance transfer credit cards also have special rewards programs. Consumers need to compare the programs before deciding on a credit card so they can choose the card with the rewards program best suited to their lifestyle. In addition, some balance transfer credit cards do not count the funds that are transferred toward the points system used in the rewards programs. To get the most of the card, consumers should find balance transfer credit cards that do count the transfers toward their rewards programs.

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0% APR Credit Cards: The High Interest Rate Solution

03 November 2009

Over the past two years, the Federal Reserve has raised interest rates substantially. Consequently, credit card annual percentage rates have followed suit. Nearly all credit cards tie their interest rates to the prime rate, which has doubled to 8% from 4% during the string of rate hikes that began in 2004. This has led to interest rates on credit cards rising by 30% or more. Since August of 2006, the Federal Reserve has kept interest rates steady, and many economists believe the next move may be a reduction in rates. However, the rate reductions have yet to begin, and credit card interest rates remain relatively high.

For those who carry balances on their credit cards, high interest rates have resulted in higher monthly bills, with many seeing their minimum payment increase substantially. Fortunately, now, more than in recent years, 0% credit cards offer a safe harbor from high rates. There are two basic types of 0% credit cards: those that offer a 0% rate on balance transfers, and those that offer a 0% on purchases. The best credit cards offer 0% interest on both. How much savings can these credit cards provide? Lets take a look at the math.

Lets assume youre carrying a balance of $10,000. If you simply pay the minimum each month, you will accrue close to $2000 in interest over the course of a year, thanks to daily compounding balances (too bad savings accounts dont pay that type of interest). With a 0% balance transfer, you can expect to save all of that money, plus, youll be given time to pay down that debt. When the 0% period expires, not only is there a chance your interest rate will be lower, but, if rates do not go down, you can always transfer the balance to another 0% credit card. Plus, if you make a minimum payment of $150 a month, your balance at the end of the year will be closer to $8200, rather than $12,000. Thats quite a difference.

Now, if youre fortunate enough to have no credit card debt, a 0% interest rate can be handy tool to avoid interest expenses on new purchases and free up some cash in the short term. Need a new fridge? Have to fix your car? Want granite counters for the kitchen? With a 0% credit card, you can defer the cost of these expenses for a year while taking advantage of high interest rates. How? By placing the cash that would have left your bank account into a high-yield savings account and taking advantage of rewards credit cards.

Lets assume you will make $10,000 of purchases over the next few months. Using a credit card with a 0% interest rate and 1% cashback rewards, coupled with a high-yield savings account with a 4% interest rate can put about $500 extra in your pocket over the course of the year.

Of course, not everyone pays their balance in full each month. With average credit card interest rates in the 12% to 15% range, carrying a monthly balance of only $1000 can cost close to $150 a year. Saving $150 in interest charges may not be a fortune, but its surely enough to buy a nice dinner with a good bottle of wine.

No matter how you use your credit card, a 0% interest credit card can have a positive effect on both short and long term cash flows. Given that the alternative is paying more than 12% in interest, choosing a 0% credit card in this atmosphere of high interest rates is a no-brainer.

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