Credit Cards: How to Capitalize Owning One? | Credit

By StevenJ.Talrechi
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Word Count: 534

Credit cards are a completely different ball game than they were in the 80's. It was once the case that the only use for a credit card was simply to be able to buy something and pay for it later. Now though, competition between the credit card companies is so stiff that they are offering all sorts of rewards to try to attract more clientele.

The credit card companies try to get new clients by offering rewards and perks, like cash back programs and free airfare for new customers. Low interest rates as an introductory offer are also common. These rewards usually are dependent on how much you charge on your credit card. However, there are ways to maximize what you can get out of these offers; read on to find out how to take full advantage of your credit card with these incentives.

Rewards cards: You should shop around for the best deal you can find if you decide to go with a card which comes with rewards. Find rewards which you will actually use; for example, free flights as a reward makes little sense if you don't fly often or do not plan to charge a lot on this particular card - these cards often require a lot of spending to actually get the rewards.

Shop around a little and find a reward that works for you. Cash back rewards are very popular. Be sure to read the fine print before you apply for the card. Ask the rep if there is a limitation on the amount of rewards you can claim. Some card companies will only allow you to claim a specific amount and once you get there, the rewards disappear.

You should also ask the rep about time limits. A lot of these programs either have a limit to the amount of rewards you can claim or a time limit in which you can claim the rewards, with an expiration date.

In the case of a gasoline reward card, make certain that there is an affiliated gas station in your city/town.

Low introductory rates: This is an interesting one. Say you have a credit card that carries a rate of 19% per annum (yearly). You have a small balance on it that can be easily paid off in say 180 days. In your shopping, you find a card that offers a 9.9% rate for new card clients for the first 12 months with no annual fees. In this situation, you could essentially take that card, transfer the balance to it and pay it off with less interest in less time. This could literally save you hundreds of dollars very quickly. The old card could be canceled or, if you have held it for some time, saved for emergencies.

Keep this in mind - when the credit card companies compete, you come out on top. Don't be afraid to shop around for the best offer - the credit card companies want your business. You might be surprised by the deals you find!

Do your research before you sign up for any cards - you stand to get some great rewards and perks this way; just don't rush into anything, there might be a better deal right around the corner.

About the Author

Steven J. Talrechi is an expert on credit reporting for more than 10 years. He writes about various topics on said field, including applying for a credit card, and different credit card offers.

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