Here are some handy tips that will help you compare credit cards & also understand them better –
A. Check APR’s – APR stands for annual percentage rates, and it is levied on purchases, cash advance and balance transfers done using a credit card. APR can differ across different cards. It is also possible that a same card can have different APR for various things like purchase, balance transfer and cash advance. Thus, APR of a card is a good scale for comparing between different credit cards, and to find a suitable one that comes with a low APR.
B. Grace Period – It is the time within which a full re-payment can be made without bearing any extra charges. Most companies offer grace period, but some cards do not avail of this facility on cash advances and balance transfers. Grace period changes from card to card, and it is wise to ensure if the card company is offering this facility.
C. Fee Structure – A company charges extra money in the form of fees. This can include fees for balance transfer, annual fees, cash advance fees and late fees. There is no consistency in the fee structure, and it adds up to a ridiculously high amount in the final bill. So try to gauze what kind of fee the company is charging on their credit card and choose accordingly.
D. Card’s Functionality – A card is of no use if it is denied at every other place. Some of the major card companies like HSBC, American Express, CitiBank etc. And the card from these companies are accepted practically everywhere. A major credit card also has a security cover against card theft and frauds.
E. Surplus Benefits – Benefits in the form of reward points, or cash discounts are offered on different purchases and use of the card. Some cover additional warranty for the products purchased using the card, some give rebates on travel, accident insurance and lot other things are offered. Look for useful benefits to make the most of the card.
F. Research – Read the terms and condition of the card. Look for hidden charges or surplus charges, and also enquire about them at the card company. Federal Reserve System maintains a database of cards, which can be accessed to check if the company is listed or not.
G. Need – There are lots of different types of card that companies introduce. Among them are business cards, student’s card, gas card, standard card store card and entertainment card. Each of these has a different fee structure and functionality. To determine which one you will need to determine your basic use for the card and your regular income.
