Low interest credit cards can provide you with the answers you are looking for when it comes to getting free of debt. If you are like millions of Americans, you are probably having difficulty keeping up with the minimum payments on your credit card. In fact, almost 70% of Americans keep a balance on one credit card or more. Similarly, 45% of those with balances pay only the minimum payment every month. Unfortunately, paying only the minimum on a credit card balance can mean taking years to pay it off.

A Glimmer of Hope

Low interest rate credit cards can provide you with the debt-relief you have been looking for. As an intelligent consumer, you can turn credit cards around and make them work for you rather than against you. Since credit card companies are in such fierce competition to acquire and to keep customers, many offer outstanding introductory offers. In fact, there are several cheap credit cards that offer an introductory APR as low as 0.00%. When used wisely, these low interest credit cards can be your ticket to financial independence.

Finding Cheap Credit Cards

Luckily for you, it is not particularly difficult to find low interest credit cards. In fact, a number of major credit cards send mailings directly to your home to offer you a card membership. On the downside, sorting through all of these credit card offers can be confusing and time consuming. For this reason, one of the best ways to find low interest rate credit cards is visit a web site offering side-by-side comparisons. Here, you can view introductory rates, annual fees, and how long the introductory rate lasts. You can also view the long term rate after the introductory rate is complete in order to determine which of the low interest credit cards will best suit your purposes.

Taking Advantage of Low Interest Rate Credit Cards

After selecting and applying for the low interest credit card of your choice, the first step to getting yourself debt free is to transfer your balances from high interest credit cards to the low interest credit card. This will help you start saving money immediately. In fact, a credit card balance of $9,000 with a 19.99% APR will cost you over $1,600 more per year than a credit card with an APR of 1.9%. Be sure, however, to look into possible balance transfer fees or other fees that might be associated with moving your credit card balance from one card to another. Also, low interest rate credit cards may have a higher interest rate on balance transfers, so be sure to be certain of the APR associated with the transfer.

After saving money with the lower APR provided by low interest credit cards, it is important for you to take advantage of the savings to become debt free. Too many people look at the savings as an excuse to spend more or they use the money elsewhere. Instead, you need to send the money you save back to the credit card in order to pay down your balance. After using the saved money on principal rather than interest, you will gradually start to see your balance disappear.

Creating a Budget

Of course, low interest rate credit cards are not the only answer for getting out of debt. Rather, they are one tool to help you get there. To get out of the red, you will need to create a budget that involves sending regular payments to the credit card that exceed the minimum payment amount. In addition, you need to either quit spending money on your credit card or make sure you have enough money coming in at the end of the month to completely pay for the additional debt placed on the card – and this money needs to be above and beyond what you already have set aside for your regular credit card payment.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Make PCB Assembly

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.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Bumper guardian

Credit card offers, including a variety of low interest credit cards, are easy to find. You hear about credit cards in discount stores while you check out, you read about credit cards in offers that come in the mail, and there are even times when you hear about credit cards when the phone disturbs an evening meal. It’s easy to get a credit card, but it may not be as easy to find low interest rate credit cards.

Many of the easiest cards to get will generally have a higher interest rate. It may be a common practice to compare insurance rates and look through several car lots for the perfect vehicle, but if the same thoughtful research were applied to credit card offers, you could see significant annual savings.

Practicality of Low Interest Credit Cards

Low interest rate credit cards are an important tool in keeping excess consumer debt from tying you down in future financial affairs.

Some of the low interest credit cards that provides very few frills are found in the Visa® or MasterCard® offers, yet the offers last for a limited time. The fixed interest rates on these cards is among the lowest available. The credit cards were developed for those with an excellent credit history. Since the rate is one of the lowest available, proof of income and a tax return or pay stub are required to verify eligibility. An annual fee of $35 is charged to customers, but the significant decrease in interest rates may offset the additional fee. If you have good credit and excess consumer debt this may be one of the better low interest credit cards to consider.

Frills, but Low Interest Rates

For low interest rate credit cards with a rewards program, you might consider some of the American Express® card offers. This credit card does not charge an annual fee and provides an introductory 0% introductory rate for up to 15 months. The ongoing APR’s are very competitive and comparably low after the introductory rate expires. Many consumers appreciate the “Smart Chip” that provides online security for cardholders. Customers have also voiced appreciation for immediate notification of approval when applying online.

Americans are fond of cheap credit cards, so credit card companies are responding with low interest rate credit cards that respond to the spending habits of consumers.

Points of View

If you have significant consumer debt, but you also have good credit, you might want to consider some of the very attractive Visa® or MasterCard® offers that are available to help minimizing annual consumer debt. This is true even when the annual fee is factored into the equation.

If, however, your consumer debt is moderate, then a card like Blue from American Express® may provide a low rate with no annual fee and a rewards program that provide benefits with every future purchase.

Overview:

Low interest rate credit cards offer a benefit from the very first day. With many companies offering a 0% introductory APR you can pay down debt more rapidly. The savings will far outweigh the time you take in reviewing offers and checking all applicable fees and services.

If you have good credit, there is no reason to accept a high interest credit card unless it provides a desired acceleration in bonus rewards. Just be sure to pay off your balance as quickly as possible if this is your choice of credit options.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Duty tariff

Low interest credit cards are often at the top of everyone’s list when looking for a credit card. This is particularly true if you plan to carry a balance on your credit card for a period of time. But, how can you find the best low interest rate credit cards available? With a few easy steps, you will be able to find them without a problem.

Mailings

Some low interest rate credit cards send out mailings advertising their great rates. These mailings can be a good start in your search of the best cheap credit cards. Make sure to read the fine print, however, because many of these low interest credit cards are really only low interest for an introductory period, then the rates skyrocket. Read the information thoroughly to determine if the card will remain low or not.

Commercials

Radio and television commercials are also a source of information about low interest credit cards. Again, it is worth looking into these cards because you might be able to find a great deal. But, before applying, go to the lender’s website and learn as much about the credit card as possible. You might find hidden fees or expenses that make the card one you should avoid.

Word of Mouth

Many people don’t think to simply ask their friends and family if they have a low interest credit card. Asking them if they have a great credit card is not too personal, it is not as if you are asking them what their line of credit is or how much debt the are carrying on the card. People who have found a low interest rate credit card are often more than willing to brag about the great rate they found. Ask your friend to give you the name of the lender and the type of card he or she has. The type of card is important because most lenders have several different cards with varying interest rates, reward programs, and other benefits. You can even ask your friend for the 1-800 customer service number listed on the back of the card. You can call the number and speak to a representative to learn more and to learn how to apply for the card.

The Internet

Perhaps the best and easiest way to find low interest credit cards is to consult the Internet. There are number of websites on the Internet that offer information about a variety of credit cards. With most of these websites, the credit cards are divided into different categories. You can click on the category for low interest rate credit cards. After doing so, many credit cards with low interest rates will be listed. The beauty of using one of these sites is that they provide you with thorough, unbiased information about multiple cards. In this way, you can compare the interest rates of several credit cards, learn about introductory rates and long-term rates, find how the finance charges are determined, and research other benefits associated with the card.

Keep in mind, low interest credit cards do not necessarily need to be cheap credit cards. In other words, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality in a credit card for a low interest rate. When at one of the credit card comparison Internet sites, be sure to look at the other benefits provided by the card. Once you have narrowed your choices down to the cards with the lowest interest rates, compare the benefits offered by the card (such as travel insurance, purchase protection, fraud protection, and extended warranty services) and choose the one that gives you the most perks at the lowest rate.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Canada duty tariff

Low interest credit cards are one of the perks of having a good credit history. For individuals who do not have a history of bad debts, possess good financials and can show a steady income over a period of time, cards with low APRs are the most cost-effect credit card alternative.

Though credit card companies issue cheap credit cards with discretion, it is possible for individuals with so-so credit to find credit cards that are a good deal. With usage of the card and good credit history, their APR can be lowered as their credit worthiness improves.

The key factors to look into when weighing the benefits of two cards that are competing for your credit are:

1) Introductory APR

2) The Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

3) Annual Fee

4) Offers, rewards, bonuses etc

The APR or the yearly rate of interest on the card is one of the prime determinants of the financial benefit that your card offers you. Some low interest credit cards offer an introductory APR of zero. In such cases you need to analyze the length of the introductory period and the regular APR charged after that. The best low interest credit card offers are those with a long introductory period and a low regular APR on your low interest credit card.

Credit card companies usually charge an annual fee. However if your credit history is good enough, some card issuers will waive the annual fee for the first year. The ideal low interest credit card for you is one which aggregates the cost and benefits in a manner that gives you the maximum financial advantage. Having a cheap credit card with low/no APR, and low/no annual fee that also offers customer rewards is like owning a luxury car that guzzles little or no fuel!

Just Before You Get Your Low Interest Credit Card

Most importantly, remember to do your comparison shopping to find the right card. For instance, is your low interest credit card a fixed rate or variable rate card? Cheap credit cards that are variable rate can be billed at different rates without notification. But remember, a low interest credit card rate, like all other credit cards, can be increased only after a 15 day notice when interest rates go higher. A little homework before you apply can save you a lot of dollars later.

Cheap Credit Cards: How Cheap Are They?

Is a cheap credit card really cheap? There are precautions that must be observed in looking at the cost of your low interest credit card over time. Sometimes credit card issuers offer low interest credit cards with an initial APR of zero. After the introductory period, the interest rate rises to negate the potential financial benefit obtained from the initial offer. Also be aware of the method your credit card uses to charge interest. Some rate calculation systems like the two cycle system may be costlier than you bargained for.

Low Interest Credit Cards: A Take-Home

1) Low interest credit cards are optimal for those with good credit

2) Find out which credit card is in sync with your needs, taking into account the carrying cost (APR) as well as rewards

3) Be aware of hidden details in your low interest credit card to avoid getting surprised

4) Use good financial sense once you have acquired your card.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Make PCB Assembly

Credit cards can be considered to be one of the many basic necessities of the modern world. Credit cards are available nowadays in abundance. One type of credit card specifically is the so-called 0% APR credit card. 0% APR credit cards were introduced in the late 1980s and to this day has still proven to be one of the most sought-after credit card types available anywhere. As with all credit card types, there are a certain tips and tricks surrounding 0% APR credit cards that all potential card applicants should be made aware of.

With the help of a 0% APR credit card, it means that you need not only pay the outstanding balance; and what more you could even charge up to the limits without having to sustain any monthly interest charges. However, sometimes, one tends to think just how these credit card companies can afford to provide 0% APR credit cards, and make a profit out of it?

Although 0% APR credit cards may not comprise any monthly charges, it is sure to come with annual fees which you are obliged to pay for the privileges of a 0% APR credit card. These annual fees usually run from $15 to $20 or sometimes, even higher. Having a 0% APR credit card doesnt mean that you can pay your dues whenever and whichever way you intend to. It IS necessary to make your payments on time, or else, you will have to pay for high overdue fees. For each late payment, the 0% APR credit card holder has to pay fees that may range from $20 to $40. With habitual late payments, these meager amounts may accumulate to a hefty total!

It should be remembered that 0% APR credit cards are usually offered for only a stipulated period of time. This credit card interest may hold good for only a fixed period of time, usually ranging from 3 up to 15 months. On the completion of this period, a higher rate of interest may come in vogue, usually 12% or higher. You could easily transfer any existing credit card balances to a new 0% APR credit card to get 0% interest on the transferred balance. In this way, the credit card holder has to pay less interest for a stipulated period of time, and thus get a chance to clear outstanding balances as quickly as possible.

When applying for a 0% APR credit card, it is always better to read the terms and agreements of the credit card. Not to overstate an obvious question, but why should one do so? Simply because many credit cards may come with a default rate wherein late payments not only incur a late payment fee, but it would also include a default rate that will be added to the annual percentage rate. This in turn doubles the figures on the existing balances and on the new purchases made on the card moving forward. Ouch!

One very important point to take into account when applying for a 0% APR credit card is to read all paragraphs of the agreement, otherwise known as the fine print. This is because though it is illegal for a credit card company to hide their fees and charges, it is nonetheless legal for them to mention these points in small print! The 0% APR credit card companies thus usually announce in large and bold print about their 0% APR but hide the facts that this is only for a limited period of time and any extra fees which might be included are done so in very fine print.

Another trick that is up the sleeve of 0% APR credit card companies is to install sky-high APRs right after the amount of 0% APR balance transfers are paid down. In other words, the money you first pay to the credit card company is applied to the transfer, and any other purchases you make will be charged a high APR. Sometimes, credit card companies may also go to the extent of sending you a different card than the 0% APR credit card you had initially applied for. In this way, you are not allowed the 0% APR but a different card offer with different terms and conditions. The card issuers typically rationalize this behavior based on the card issuer determining that you do not meet the qualifications for a 0% APR credit card. Qualifications for a 0% APR credit card is usually found in the small print of the agreement, and is usually overseen by applicants!

It can thus be seen that though 0% APR credit cards do seem to be rather inviting, there are some loopholes and tricks to their use. As always, it is highly recommended to read the terms and conditions on the card application agreement for the 0% APR credit card, or any type of credit card application, thoroughly in order to avoid any future problems, headaches or financial surprises.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: PCB Prototype & Manufacturing

Low interest credit cards are essential tools for the frequent credit card user. Because many people cannot pay off their credit cards entirely when the bill arrives each month, enrolling in a low interest rate credit card program can help you keep your interest rate fees to a minimum. There are a variety of highly feasibly strategies available for shoppers that are in the market for low interest credit cards.

Background

Before you begin shopping for the best available low interest credit card, it is important to understand how rates are set. You probably know that all people wishing to obtain any sort of credit in the U.S. must go through a “credit check.” A credit check is essentially a survey of your past credit transactions that will help to determine the degree of liability that a credit card company may have to assume if you are going to be a client. Because there are so many credit card users representing a variety of backgrounds, individuals are assigned a unique “credit score.” In general, the higher your score is, the better chance you have of obtaining a low interest credit card.

Balance Transfer

While no credit card company can readily offer an interest-free card (at least for the long-term), you may be able to frequently transfer your credit card balance to a company that offers so-called “cheap credit cards.” Cheap credit cards are, essentially, credit cards that offer a limited-time-only promotion whereby individuals that enroll to receive a special low interest credit card will benefit from a 0% interest for a pre-determined amount of time. Buyers: beware. Often, when a company offers a 0% introductory rate, they make up for the generosity by drastically increasing the rate once the trial period has expired. For this reason, many individuals that use these cheap credit cards frequently migrate their balances from one low interest credit card provider to the next.

Be a Long-term Client

While migrating your balance from one company offering cheap credit cards to the next may seem like a strategic move, the frequent moving actually has a negative long-term effect on your credit score. Each time you open and close a credit card account, your credit score is threatened. The more you open and close the less stable you will appear. Therefore, your credit score will necessarily be lowered. However, there is hope for long-term clients wishing to obtain a low interest credit card. No matter how low or high your interest rate is when you initially enroll in a program, if you can establish a strong history with a credit card company, you will be in a good position to negotiate a low interest rate.

Shop Around

It may seem intuitive, but many credit card users neglect to shop around for the best rates. Instead, they sign up with whichever low interest credit card company that offers an appealing rate on the direct mail campaign. However, with a little research, you will likely find that there is a huge disparity between the rates that various credit card companies are prepared to offer. Also, if you are a member of any professional organization, you may qualify for an additional discount on the interest rate. Do your research; you will find that education will be your finest asset when selecting a low interest rate credit card.

Everyone wants to shop using a low interest credit card. No matter how affluent you are, many people bulk at the idea of paying high interest rates month after month. Regardless of your existing credit score, if you combine strategy and research, you can certainly find a slew of low interest credit cards that will make your purchasing experience much more pleasurable. Remember: cheap credit cards not only soothe any shopper’s conscious, but they allow shoppers to retain some extra cash that they can put towards more important purchases.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Programmable Multi-cooker

Low interest credit cards are an ideal choice for those who are looking for the much needed financial flexibility to become debt free. Many of you many wonder how low interest rate credit cards can help get you out of debt, when it appears on the surface, that most credit cards seem to help get people into debt. But if used wisely and with discipline, these type of cheap credit cards can provide the right kind of financial assistance during any tough financial crisis.

How Can I Get Out of Debt with Low Interest Credit Cards?

You need cash immediately to get out of the debt created by high interest credit cards but you have no option to raise the money right? What if a company offers low interest credit cards as low as 0% APR as an introductory offer? And, what if they give the option of transferring your card balance from your high interest rate credit card to your low interest credit card? Yes! You would probably consider it a windfall because it can really help bail you out of your current financial situation.

If you are wise, you can make great use of such low interest credit cards to assist you in paying your outstanding debts. There are several credit card companies offering their service at unbelievably low rates. The truth of the matter is that these type of cards utilize different promotional offers in order to rope in new customers, but also to retain existing customers as well. You definitely should not need shy away from this type offer because of outstanding debts. In fact, these types of low interest credit card offers are tailored uniquely for your circumstance. The competition among credit card companies is so high that there will be several companies willing to do business with you irrespective of your financial situation, good credit or not so good.

The greatest advantage of low interest rate credit cards is obviously their low APR. It allows you to save a lot of money on interests. The savings from these types of cheap credit cards should be used to aggressively bring down your outstanding card balances. Remember, it is the balance on credit cards that gets you in trouble. So, you should try to get rid of it as quickly as possible. You might think that by making a small payment that you are at least paying something, however, it does not solve the problem as the principal amount actually grows if you only make small or minimum payments.

Financial Discipline

Some people use low interest credit cards as a license to overspend as the APR is so low and cheap. But nothing could be further from the truth. Low interest rate credit cards alone cannot get you out of debt traps. Strict financial discipline and proper financial planning is necessary for it. Low interest credit cards can then act as a booster or catalyst to solve your debt problems.

To avoid further debt traps, you should aggressively pay down the low interest credit card and utilize the card for additional purchases only if you can pay off both the new purchases as well as the existing debt payment. Remember, however, that if your card balance is large, it is best not to charge additional items on the card. You should focus on paying down the balance before incurring additional debt.

Things to Remember

Before applying for low interest rate credit cards, you should thoroughly assess your current financial situation. Keeping your personal financial situation in mind, you can mindfully search for the different types of low interest credit cards. Most people obviously want to transfer balances of high interest credit cards to low interest credit cards, and this is a very good option as it can save substantially on finance charges.

Make sure that transfer fees or other miscellaneous fees that might be involved do not negate the savings captured by a low interest card. Some cheap credit cards might have high interest rates that are applied to balance transfers, but lower APR’s on an ongoing basis, while some low interest rate credit cards only give introductory rates for a specific period of time. Before selecting any one of the low interest credit cards, get a clear idea about the introductory rate, balance transfer rate, cash advance rate as well as the ongoing long term APR.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: How Electric Pressure Cookers Work

A host of low interest credit cards is already in the e-marketplace favoring those with a revolving credit – in other words, those who carry a monthly balance. The interest rates on these cards tend to be around 10% while the rates on normal cards could be as high as 16% to 18%. The interest rates offered on these low interest credit cards could be fixed or variable. The fixed interest rate is relatively low in comparison to the variable interest rate. Fixed rate is advisable for those who carry a balance every month. Good credit history is required to get these low interest rate credit cards, which makes it difficult for many potential customers to acquire one.

How Do The Credit Card Companies Make Money?

Low interest rates charged on these cards are compensated in various ways by the credit card companies. Some of it includes, high annual fees, low introductory offer for only a limited period, and high transfer rates.

Searching For the Best Low Interest Credit Cards

The Internet is the best resource to evaluate various low interest rate credit cards. Since the credit card market is cluttered with various options, these low interest credit cards are marketed aggressively. A potential cardholder can negotiate the average interest rate from 10% to 6% if they have an exceptionally good credit rating. In case you have poor or low credit rating, you can negotiate with the credit card company for a better interest rate provided you give enough proof to substantiate steady income and a potential for your earnings to sustain in the future.

A cheap credit card, with low interest rates, helps you to maintain an increased credit limit at a lower monthly credit balance. You also need to consider the annual fee for such low cost cards as, in some cases, the actual interest rate of these cards could work out to be much higher than a regular card. Hence, it is advisable to choose a card that has low or zero annual fees. Most of these low interest credit cards offer 0% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for the introductory period. However, you need to be careful about the rates offered at the end of the introductory offer as they could escalate to phenomenally high rates after the introductory period is over.

Therefore, it is important to note the fine print in these offers because if various options are not evaluated carefully, it may defeat the basic purpose of obtaining these cards in the first place.

A Low Interest Credit Card Helps Saves Money

Low interest rate credit cards can greatly help in debt reduction and management of credit card expenses, provided care is taken to evaluate the various parameters.

* Balance transfer – Attractive interest rates of 5 to 9% are offered by many credit card companies, which enable you to pay off debt at a lower cost. It is wise to consider the 0% introductory offer, though it should not be the primary influencing factor in choosing the card.

* Debt Consolidation – Debt consolidation is best done with low interest rate credit cards. It is financial prudence on your part to consolidate your debt using a low interest credit card especially since so many offers are available with little or no transaction fees. Along with incurring lower interest rates, the savings on these transfers can be used to pay off the principal sum. In addition, debt consolidation with cheap credit cards helps to track all your credit card expenses.

* Cash Back Programs and Rewards – Many of these low interest rate credit cards in the market, in an effort to lure the customer, offer reward and cash back programs that allows you to earn reward points for every dollar spent on your card. In addition, these cards also collaborate with other merchants like restaurants, drug stores, shopping malls and offer good value for money deals.

So explore all such options before you sign up for the first low cost credit card that comes your way. If you want low interest credit cards to help reduce your debt burden, you must consider its annual fee, rate of interest etc. Low interest rate credit cards that offer rewards and cash back do not really help you reduce debts but they help save money in other ways. So cheap credit cards are only cost effective if you are able to exploit them to your own advantage.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Pressure cooker

If you are struggling with ever-increasing credit card debt, a 0% APR credit card could be the magic wand for you. There are a number of 0% APR credit cards in the marketplace. These 0% interest credit cards offer cardholders zero percent on new purchases and certain 0% APR credit card offers also allow balance transfers, lowering the interest burden even further.

The Truth About 0% APR Credit Cards

These types of 0% APR credit cards are offered by popular credit card lenders including American Express, Citibank, Chase, HSBC, and Discover. These cards have many benefits to offer if you have a good to excellent credit rating.

Keep in mind, that the zero percent offered with these cards is not permanent. It is an introductory rate and is typically offered for ninety days to as long as 12 months. At the end of the interest-free or zero percent periods, cardholders will have to pay a higher ongoing interest rate. Generally, these rates could vary between 10 % – 14% and sometimes can be as high as 24%.

A 0% APR credit card is ideal when you want to purchase something expensive but cannot find another way to finance it. There will be no interest charges for the in and you will have the introductory buffer period to pay off the expense. But buyer beware … make sure you can pay the purchase off before the introductory APR expires.

Most 0% Interest credit cards allow balance transfers from your existing higher interest cards and many will waive the transfer fees. This is one of the best methods to pay off debts at a faster rate, leading to substantial savings on the interest charges incurred.

It is possible that a single credit card can have multiple APRs including the following:

1) One APR for balance transfers, one for purchases, and one for cash advances the APR normally would be higher for cash advances compared to balance transfers and purchases.

2) Tiered APRs Different APR levels can be assigned for different account balance levels or tiers, e.g., 15% for balances between $1 – $500 and 17% for balances higher than $500, etc.

3) Introductory APR 0% APR as the introductory offer and a higher rate upon expiration of the introductory period.

4) Penalty APR A penalty APR rate may apply if you are late with your payments.

The Traps to Watch Out For:

A 0% APR credit card is an attractive proposition, and often is too tempting an offer to resist. However, it is essential to be informed about the often-untold catches in these lucrative offers.

1. The 0% APR is a Limited Time Offer In general, the 0% APR offered is only for a limited period. The period could vary from 3 months to 12 months. This implies that purchases made during this period will not attract any interest. You need to be cautious about the expiry period and remember to pay off before the period ends inorder to avoid hefty interest charges.

2. Once the introductory period is over, the 0% APR credit card may have a ridiculously high interest rate like 20% or higher.

3. On-Time Payment Most of these 0% interest credit cards require you to pay the minimum payment on time every month during the introductory period. Late payments will result in penalties that include shifting the remaining balance to a much higher APR.

4. Complete Payment Certain 0% APR cards require you to pay off the balance entirely before the expiration period of the introductory offer. If not, the default high interest rate could be applied to the entire balance. Ensure that you understand these credit card terms clearly.

5. Applicability of the 0% APR Most of the 0% Interest cards offer the 0% APR on new purchases and balance transfers in the introductory period. However, there are some cards that offer 0% APR on balance transfers only with higher applicable APR’s on new purchases.

6. Other Fees Some credit card companies compensate the 0% APR by charging high annual fees or transfer fees on balance transfers.

7. Cap on Balance Transfer Certain cards may have a cap or limit on the balance transfer amount. This means that the 0% APR will apply only for the amount within the cap limit and anything more will be charged the default higher APR.

While it may be an attractive offer to go for 0% APR credit cards, it may not be a wise decision in certain scenarios. So, before you seriously consider a 0% APR credit card, it is essential to compute credit balances, interest rates, and your pay off capability. Read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid credit traps. Understanding the fine print could have substantial savings apart from trouble free credit rating.

Author: Robert Alan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Guest blogger