Credit cards all have different options, which is why a credit card comparison is vitally important before you apply for a card. We are going to look at two of the types of credit cards you can find in the UK. The first credit card has an annual fee and the second will not.
» Read more: Annual Fees of Credit Cards
Archive for December, 2008
Annual Fees of Credit Cards
December 29th, 2008What is Lifetime Balance Transfer?
December 16th, 2008Online information regarding various credit cards and their features abound. The websites that present these data are there to help the consumers choose the right credit card for them since a lot of people may not know all the different features that credit cards offer. Of these many features, one of the most important to consumers is the balance transfer scheme that the credit card has.
When looking at credit card comparison sites, one can be overwhelmed by the flood of facts and figures facing him. Some of these figures may not be immediately understandable by the layman. To assist in making some of the data understandable, particularly those pertaining to the balance transfer feature of a credit card, I would be presenting some simple facts to assist the tables of comparisons that you will find in the site.
Balance transfer is a good alternative for someone with a huge credit card loan. What the consumer needs to do is transfer that loan to another credit card that offers this scheme. The advantage of transferring the loan balance is mainly to get longer payment terms and getting lower interest rates. However, not all cards have uniform rates and fees. It is therefore important to compare first before choosing the card that could answer this need.
Balance transfer schemes come in different forms. There is what is called 0% balance transfer cards, 0% interest on balance transfer cards, low interest rate balance transfer and the lifetime balance transfer credit cards. I will be elaborating on the latter type of balance transfer.
Lifetime balance transfer credit cards are those that apply a low interest rate in the loan for a period of more than one year. There are cards that offer up to five year payment term. This type of credit card is very ideal to those with large debts who wanted their debt restructured and stretched over a longer period of time. Despite the name, lifetime balance transfer cards do not offer a lifetime promotional rate. One or five year period is hardly a lifetime. However, these lifetime balance transfer cards often apply a very low annual percentage rate (APR) compared to the normal interest rates. The standard APR for balance transfers is 17.27%. Translated to monthly interest rate, this is only a mere 1.43% monthly interest compared to the normal credit card interest rates that ranges from 2% to 3.5% monthly. This is even better than an unsecured loan.
Now how does a consumer know if this is the best type of card for him? Those with existing loans that are starting to become unmanageable; this credit card scheme is for you. To those who hate transferring their loans from one card to another every time the 0% interest rate is over, then this card is again for you. For those who do not know which credit cards offer this scheme, the information is available online, with just a click of your fingers. Just look closely, compare, and you cannot go wrong.
Why Compare Credit Cards?
December 15th, 2008It may be stating the obvious when we talk about comparing credit cards and why you should, but it does need to be done. There are numerous reasons why you should compare credit cards. We may get to only a few, but they are the most important motives you should have for comparison.
» Read more: Why Compare Credit Cards?
Credit Card Comparison Online
December 8th, 2008The Language of Credit Cards: Choosing the Perfect Card for your Needs
The most effective way to compare UK credit cards is to explore choices. True, credit cards have become one of the most popular among the easiest stuff to get and use online. Modern technology spells it all-a breakthrough in the automation of purchases, financial settlements, and even investments that take online businesses to the next level. To compare UK credit cards, some offer countless options perfect for anyone’s payment preferences, lifestyle and business inclinations. Whatever you need to compare UK credit cards from one model to another, each company has almost every attractive offer that can surely entice you to fill out that application form to get you started.
If you want to build a good credit score, start considering secured business credit cards. Most of these UK credit cards offer lower interest rates, low to 0% APR, and 0% balance transfer fees. Business credit cards are entirely versatile: you can use them for travel tickets, online shopping, equipment purchases, or even cash advances. This is why business credit cards are said to cover almost all of the purposes being served by reward, balance transfer, or instant credit cards. Also, one important thing to note as you compare UK credit cards in general against business credit cards is that they can be very manageable and pocket-friendly most especially to those who can settle their dues in the specified grace period of their debts. This means less extra charges and lower interest rates to deal with, which definitely makes this type of credit card the ideal choice for payer with good credit scores.
Talk about student credit cards, which stand to be the opposite of secured business credit cards in the context of security. That is, when we compare UK credit cards, we can see that almost every student credit card does not require any form of collateral to secure payments from the payers. Instead, this security comes at the expense of higher interest rates, which is significantly higher than any of the most affordable credit cards in the market. One main advantage of UK credit cards falling under student credit cards is that you get your application approved even without presenting any form of credit score or history, which means that you can get to purchase anything without worrying about the application process. Student credit cards offer this speedy procedure while keeping your choices wide and flexible, as these credit cards can be used anywhere-plane tickets, phone or gadget purchases, cash advance, and more. There are several student credit cards that offer 0% APR in the first 2 years, and beyond this time you can also enjoy incentives and freebies granted that you can manage to pay your balances in the agreed period.
Rewards credit card is the most tempting credit card option because it offers exciting freebies such as latest gadgets, mobile phones, vacation trips and even cash equivalents of the payer’s purchases. If you are after getting these free items, make sure that you also take note of the credit quota, as these credit cards usually require users to reach a certain amount of purchases in order to avail of their freebies, which definitely means higher debt for the payer’s part. Choose wisely in picking the perfect UK credit card option that will perfectly suit your needs.
Understanding Reward Credit Cards
December 8th, 2008Understanding the Scope of Reward Cards
Nowadays, there are innumerable companies that serve as credit card providers. Try walking around the malls and you will see a lot of agents distributing fliers and convincing you to sign up for their credit card offers. To be able to gain more clients, they make juicy offers and try to introduce to you a whole package of reward program. You will be able to take full advantage of such freebies when you swipe the credit card for purchases. It sounds great, right? What are reward cards? Are they really worth your time? Read on to get a hint of the picture which the credit card providers are trying to paint.
The various credit card providers offer different deals when it comes to their reward cards. They come up with really fantastic offers just so they can gather customers. As it is true that you may run out of cash from time to time and you definitely see the usefulness of swiping a card, then there is no question that you will take time to apply for one.
Anyhow, you should be really cautious with regards to their cool reward offers. As it goes, not all reward cards are worth it. Most of the times, you will find them useless so be careful with every choice that you make. The usual promised rewards include the free airline ticket, hotel accommodation, cash back, point system, and many other freebies. If you don’t think about these things, you may end up doubling your payment!
Here are some helpful insights when it comes to choosing the worthy reward cards.
Do away with credit cards that promise reward cards yet a very high interest rate come along. The trend is for the companies to put the reward thing as a front but little do you realize that they disguise the amplified interest rates behind. Yes, they can even be higher than what is charged by a standard credit card! This can work well if you are the type of person who ensures to settle all dues on a monthly basis. Yet if your thinking is of the opposite, might as well think about the deal several times.
Also, be sure to watch out for those reward cards that cover an annual fee. Look into the price to be charged annually and decide if you can afford it. By being cautious, you will be able to save more money and free yourself from unexpected fees.
It is totally hard to control oneself from making a purchase. As you hit the mall, there are several items that will readily catch your attention. You will get this and that. You will have your card swiped. As a result, you will be charged. Are you ready to pay for your credit? Do you have the money to cover for your expenses? The reward cards are not enough reason to convince you to get a credit card from any company. You have to see to it that you will have a use of the promised rewards.
Which Business Credit Card
December 8th, 2008Business Credit Cards’ Do’s and Dont’s
Getting a business credit card for the sole purpose of putting up a small business may not be a good idea. Most entrepreneurs who intend to have a business should have enough capital to start the business with. He must not rely only on the business credit card for all the expenditures the new business may incur. Business credit cards should be there only to assist with the smooth flow of operation, particularly the cash flow during times when money is tight. This is also a handy way of making purchases without the need for cash. In short, acquiring the use of a business credit card can be beneficial to the company. However, these benefit may go down the drain if the borrower is not disciplined enough to make only the necessary purchases or responsible enough to make the payments on time or do the spending that could only be afforded. Worst, this bad habit may lead to the eventual doom of the business and a bad credit record for the businessman.
To help the borrower with how best to choose and use business credit cards, hereunder are some dos and dont’s that may well be his guide.
I will start with the do’s. The very first thing to do is choose the perfect card suitable to the business. Business credit card comparison tables are readily available in the internet. You could easily compare the features available from each card and consider which one could give the best offers and which one is suitable to your business requirement. Second thing to remember is to maximize the rewards offered by your business credit card of choice by getting those that offer rewards or rebates that is complimentary to your line of business. For instance, your business requires vehicles traveling all the time. Then, it would be wise to get credit cards that has rewards of free gasoline or discounts on motor products, etc. Credit cards should be used with good judgment. It is a mistake to put all expenses on debt to prevent possibilities of obtaining bad credit. It would be wise to get one or two business credit cards only to be able to limit expenses and to maintain manageability of debts. Additionally, choose the cards that are affiliated and reports to business credit tracking agencies. It is a good way to start building that credit history for future and bigger business venture. Lastly, employees may be allowed to make use of the business credit cards for smoother and faster business operation, however, discipline must also be instilled
We now go to the dont’s on business credit cards. Do not choose hurriedly. Scrutinize the available credit cards well before choosing the card for you. Do not overspend. Make sure that what is purchased is only necessary to the business. Do not combine personal with business expenses. This will be to the disadvantage of the cardholder when the time of taxation comes. Do not take cash advances. Card issuers charge high interest rates on cash advances. Do not make late payments. This would mean strict penalties and bad credit record for the cardholder.
With all this information, the cardholder will not go wrong.
Pre Paid Credit Cards Explained
December 8th, 2008KNOW THE BASICS OF YOUR PRE PAID CREDIT CARD
Planning on getting a pre paid credit card? Since these cards do not necessarily require that you have good credit scores, they are easily acquired and may not require too much paperwork from your end.
Most of the time all you will be needing would be just your basic information for identification, a social security number and of course, the initial amount that will be deposited into your pre paid credit card account. The minimum amount of initial deposit as well as the balance to maintain your account may vary from one credit card company to the next. However, there may also be fees for opening and activating an account and this could go as high as $30. The good news though is that many companies also allow you to open and activate a pre paid credit card account for no cost at all.
If you are a parent thinking of getting a pre paid credit card extension for a kid away at college, there are also several offers that can be availed of, but do not forget to check on the fees as well. When making a choice of which pre paid card to acquire be careful to check the fees that go along with it. Most of the time companies may charge a maintenance fee that could go as high as $10 every month.
Find out as well if charges will be imposed for your transactions. On occasion making a deposit into your account may also cost you although many pre paid credit card companies do allow their card holders to have their paychecks automatically or electronically deposited into their prepaid accounts. Know what is being offered by each of the pre paid cards that are available to you and choose which one works best to your advantage. It is important to read carefully the terms and conditions that go along with your card’s application and usage before signing up.
There are several reasons why owning a pre paid credit card is an advantage. While it may not necessarily help build your credit score, it can help build financial discipline. This is because unlike your usual credit card these pre paid credit cards will not allow you to spend more than what has been deposited into the account. If you have bad spending habits and you have the tendency to accumulate credit card debts, then it this may provide you a better alternative.
Besides, owning a pre paid credit card is much like credit cards. Aside from allowing card owners the convenience of making purchases in just about anywhere and everywhere credit cards are accepted, including making online purchases, many of these pre paid cards also allow you to accumulate rewards points when your purchases reach a certain minimum amount. In order to entice clients they may also offer other promotions and discounts at certain stores. If the promotions and discounts of a certain card work to your advantage, then perhaps, this is a card that you should consider having.
Football Credit Cards Compared
December 8th, 2008Compare Football Credit Cards
Calling all football fanatics out there, here is your chance to show your alliance. Nothing says “support” more than flashing your credit card with your favorite club on it. Still hot from the creative minds of people behind your regular credit card, you’ll sure win over other people’s support using this type of credit cards.
If you are a football fan, then you owe it to yourself to have one of this. For years you work hard and tried to be responsible. Adulthood has taken its toll on you. The lines are showing on your face and the bulges keeps sticking out. You have forgotten the joys of being young. Bring back the kid within you. Dig deep to those times when all that matters is football. Start hearing the cheers again. Reach in to your pocket and stare at your football credit card, and remember how it was like the last time you saw their game.
No need to worry about the football season, your football credit cards will be with you along the way. From purchasing tickets to having a victory party, let the football credit cards take care of this momentous occasions. Enjoy the game with your football credit cards.
Football credit cards allow you to have the convenience of regular credit card and the satisfaction of being a fan. Complete your collection of sports memorabilia of hats, shirts, and stickers, with these attention grabbing football credit cards. Treat your football credit cards as a badge of honor, a source of pride and joy. It can be your silent connection to the team and to other football fans. This is as personalized as you can get in having a credit card. Now, it’s more about you. Why stay with your old boring credit cards when it is more fun to have a football card.
Here on Now Credits Cards, we hope to make your task easier in choosing the right credit cards for you. Though you are much at liberty having your favorite football club as the sole basis of your choice for your football credit cards, we anticipate your concerns on the different feature and benefits of the cards.
The beauty of a football credit card is that it offers the standard benefits and features of a regular credit card. To ease your decision making we provided you with vital information that you might want to browse on. We have categorically summarized according to balance-transfer program rate and duration, purchases, typical APR, and rewards. We even provided you with a link that will make your application faster.
You can check out the different features by clicking on the particular category (balance- transfer rate, duration, purchases, and typical APR) located at the top of the table and it will automatically sort the football cards from the lowest to the highest. For example you want to find out which card has the lowest typical APR, just click on the typical APR and it will provide you with a reorganized list that would put the card having the lowest APR at the top of the list.
Using Credit Cards for Students
December 8th, 2008Using Student Credit Cards for Students-What You Need To Know
At any given time, emergencies can happen. Students, especially those in colleges and universities, might need something for their studies. They might need a book for their book report, a laptop for making a thesis and other documentations, etc. College students normally live in boarding houses so they are separated from their parents. In a time of emergency, when the student needs money, who would help him?
For example, you are a student and you are doing a final paper for a subject. You are using a laptop to make the final paper when the laptop suddenly crashed. You might not be able to repair it by yourself. It might even take a professional to fix this problem. At this time, you really would resort to getting it repaired by professionals. It would cost you a lot, and if you don’t have enough money, you can simply use student credit cards to pay the bills.
Student credit cards have become an interesting item for college students. They can use it to buy whatever they need for their studies or for their own well-being. So if you are interested in owning student credit cards, then you should prepare yourself. There are various types of student credit cards and you might find it hard to choose just one. Luckily, here is a comparison of some of the best student credit cards offered by the best banks around:
|
Name |
APR |
Intro APR |
Intro APR period |
Setup Fee |
Annual Fee |
Balance Transfers |
Credit Needed |
Benefits |
|
Citi mtvUTM Platinum Select Visa Card for College Students |
12.99% |
0% |
6 months |
None |
None |
Yes |
Good Credit |
Earn 5 ThankYou Points® for every dollar you spend at restaurants, bookstores, record stores, movie theaters and video rentals stores, · Earn 1 ThankYou Point for every dollar you spend on all other purchases, Earn 25 ThankYou Points for paying on time, Earn 250-2000 ThankYou Points twice a year for maintaining a good GPA and Redeem points for gift cards, MTV events, and airline tickets |
|
Capital One® No Hassle Cash(SM) Rewards for Students |
16.90% |
0% on all purchases |
Until May 2009 |
None |
$29 |
Yes |
Limited History |
$0 Fraud Liability for unauthorized use if your card is lost or stolen, No limit on cash back and rewards won’t expire for the life of your account and 25% annual bonus on cash earned during the year and 1% cash back on all purchases |
|
Citi Platinum Select Card for College Students |
11.99% |
0% |
6 months |
None |
None |
Yes |
Good Credit |
FREE Online Account Management, No minimum income or cosigner required and $0 liability on unauthorized purchases |
|
Discover ® Student Card |
14.99% |
0% on purchases |
6 months |
None |
None |
N/A |
Good Credit |
Unlimited cash rewards, automatically, Up to 20% Cash back Bonus® when you shop online, Double rewards with more than 100 Cash back Bonus Partners and Customer Service in less than a minute, anytime you want |
|
Citi® Driver’s Edge® Card for College Students |
13.99% |
0% |
6 months |
None |
None |
Yes |
Good Credit |
Earn Rebates Towards Any Car, New or Used, Build your credit history, Free Online Account Management and $0 liability on unauthorized purchases |
Why Charity Credit Cards
December 8th, 2008You are considering getting a credit card but with so many credit card types available in the market today, it makes it doubly hard for you to choose. Alleviate yourself from so much thinking. Think of the reasons why in the fist place you would want to get one. This might help you think and reconsider. There are general factors why people get credit cards. One, it can improve one’s credit score. Second, for one-time big transactions such as buying the latest appliance or the newest tech gadget everyone’s raving about in town, it is most advisable to use a credit card. Then, some prefer liquidating there spending by using credit cards instead of borrowing from different institutions or borrowing for different purposes. If you’re using only one financial tool its easier to track and most preferred by those who don’t want any delinquent accounts. Fourth, instead of carrying cash it is definitely safer to carry and more convenient to use. And last but not the least, some would want there cards to have certain purposes aside from helping them in their spending or purchases, but also , it would be nice if it at least rewards the credit card holder with spiritual and social benefits.
The charity credit card is perfect for all these considered factors. Imagine, a credit card that caps all these, you can be sure that you’ll never be wrong. How does a charity credit card work? In lay man’s term it is like a cash back card, however for this type of card, percentage of the amount of your purchases will be accumulated back into your credit card as earnings. You can then choose if you want point’s equivalent to your earnings or if you want that “returned” cash to be added to your credit card balance. For charity credit cards, it’s quite similar in a way. Your purchases will have an equivalent percentage based on the card provider’s criterion or your charities needs, etc. This certain amount then will be forwarded to your chosen charity or your chosen cards sponsored charity. This way, you are able to donate for a cause without exerting extra effort and most of all it’s at no cost to you. Due to the popularity of charity credit cards ever since its introduction, several charity organizations are now a part of this, adding to the list that one can choose from.
Like all other credit cards, a charity credit card provider will give you 3 months of 0% interest rate usage of your card. Its 12.9% APR remains the lowest in the market. It’s easy to apply for and you are assured that even if there are only limited banks or financial institutions that are offering this type of card, it will not be difficult to apply for.
So the next time you go shopping or go splurge on an expensive trip or cruise perhaps, using your charity credit card to pay for all the expensed would at least leave you guilt-free. Wondering why? Mainly because, each single pound you spend a part of it will go to your credit cards sponsored charity.
