Choosing The Best Credit Card Offer For You
Posted in Credit on 07/20/2010 08:27 am by Mark AndradeTrying to compare credit card offers can make you crazy. Sorting through all the fine points can be challenging. And a mistake can be costly. Fully a third of credit card companies’ revenue come from extra fees. To get the best deal for your situation, you need to know your own credit needs and sift through the fine print. Consider these things before you make your selection.
Those Who Maintain a Balance
If this describes you, then always seek to find the card with the lowest, fixed interest rate. Cards with low introductory teaser rates can quickly become a noose around your neck if you cannot pay off your balance before the rate goes up, often dramatically. You can’t count on being able to simply transfer the balance to another card as lenders are increasingly watching out for that.
Find the Best Rate
If your credit score is above 720 – congratulation! You have good credit, and can expect to get an interest rate in the neighborhood of 10%. If your score is more in the neighborhood of about 650, you will probably be offered a rate more in the mid teen, or higher. You might be able to snag a lower introductory rate, but remember the risks involved in those.
Comb the Details
If you decide to go for the card with the low introductory rate, be sure to put the expiration date on your calendar right away. Most people either don’t do that, or can’t pay off their balance on time. For sure stay introductory rate is for a very short time, like just a few months. Another big red flag is if you suddenly “don’t qualify” on a pre-approved offer, so instead you’re given another offer at a much higher rate.
Watch out for high balance transfer fees. Running in the 3% to 5% range, the fees can be hefty. Do the math – you might find they’re not worth it. Especially if you’re unable to pay the balance before the introductory offer expires.
Have a Backup Card
If you opt for the low rate card with the teaser rate, keep another card for all new purchases and pay it off each month. That way you won’t find yourself in a bind when the intro rate expires and you haven’t paid off your balance. If you don’t, all new purchases will accumulate interest at the higher interest that’s kicked in, until your initial balance is paid off.
The Bottom Line
Once you get your balances paid off, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that you’re no longer hostage to the credit card companies rate games. While it might be tempting to close that account now, or ask to have the limit lowered – don’t do it. Unless you absolutely have no discipline when it comes to spending, leave your account open and use it occasionally to continue to build your credit. Closing accounts or lowering limits will hurt your credit score and more weight is put on older accounts when calculating your credit score.
Visit our website all about American Payday Loans which gives practical advice to those experiencing short-term financial difficulties. It also offers information on Faxless Payday Loans, as well as tips on saving, budgeting, and other spending decisions. Also published at Choosing The Best Credit Card Offer For You.