Now that they gradually eliminated the annual fees, they've advanced the 'no annual fee credit card' into a marketing incentive. But that doesn't mean there are no fees at all. That is why you need to read the entire offer before signing for a new credit card.
If you don't pay the entire balance each month, you must pay a service charge on the unpaid balance. Then if you go over your credit card limit, you must pay an additional fee, perhaps in the $35 range. In addition, if you're late making any payment, not only are you charged a service charge and maybe an over-limit charge, you're assessed a late fee as well. These added fees more than make up for the annual fee that has been discontinued for most cards.
When applying for a new credit card, it's imperative that you plan on and handle your spending and bill paying responsibly. In addition to the added fees, missteps with a credit card can cost you dearly in other ways as well. It can be reflected on your credit report which in turn effects many aspects of your life from a job application, home loan, purchase of a new car, to the interest rate you're charged on new credit purchases. An unfavorable mark on your credit report can even have an effect when applying for insurance.
No annual fee credit cards are offered by most banks and financial institutions. Once you've found a credit card offer that doesn't charge a yearly fee, you can then look at the additional features of each offer.
No interest for an introductory time can enable you to consolidate debts interest free. Rewards programs for many credit cards include cash back, air miles, and numerous goodies too many to mention. Whatever your current financial situation or outlook, there's a credit card offer that will fit your needs.
No Annual Fee Credit Card
The better part of lending institutions now offer no annual fee credit cards to attract would-be consumers. Finding a card with no annual fee can save you a lot of cash. Don't accept the first offer you receive though. Finding the right card can be tricky and realizing the type of contract you are locking into is crucial.
Suggestions for Finding the Right No Annual Fee Credit Card
Everything you need to know about a particular credit card and its policies can be found either on the lender's website or in the pamphlet included with the card. As a responsible card-holder, you should be aware of the terms you consent to.
Read the fine print every time. Though the information printed about your card's account terms may sound like nonsense, it is crucial to read through it. The legal talk often contains the most important aspects about your credit agreement, including any additional charges you may otherwise not be aware of.
Lenders also update these policies now and then and send the new copy with your billing statement. Take the time to read about the changes in the agreement to avoid incurring additional charges.
Be aware that in the future the interest rate of your no annual fee credit card may go up by 10% or more. Introductory interest rates look good and work well to draw new in consumers. Understand that this usually means there will be a large rate hike in the future.
Make sure you know the policy on late fees. Some institutions charge as much as $39 for a late fee, which makes up for them not charging an annual fee. Many institutions also have a rule that the low interest rate is only locked in as long as payments are made on time. Payment deliquency could result in an increase in your interest rate.
Learn the lender's policy on over-the-limit fees; they can snowball if left unchecked. A late fee could be all it takes to put you over your credit limit and without making a purchase you could owe an additional $80 or more to bring your credit card below your credit limit again.
Take care to see if the institution offers any type of benefit like traveler's miles, merchandise perks, extended warranties on purchases, balance transfers, gas rewards or a cash back reward system for using the card.
Suggested No Annual Fee Cards
Every credit card has different agreements. Take care to look over each option to decide which one would work best for your fiscal situation and spending style. The right no annual fee credit card can help you save money.
Chase Bank offers a Platinum Business Card that has an introductory rate of 0% with no annual fee and the rate is only 12.24%.
The Discover Business Card offers a 13.99% APR, no annual fee and cash back rewards.
Citi Bank offers the CitiBusiness Card that has a low rate of 10.74%, no annual fee, merchandise discounts and a 0% introductory offer.
The American Express Simply Cash Business Card offers no annual fee, unlimited cash back bonuses for purchases made with the card, a 0% introductory rate and a low 8.25% APR.
Both Bradley Carson & Nick Bair are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Nick Bair has sinced written about articles on various topics from Credit Cards. Nick Bair is a long-time consumer advocate and the owner of , a credit card comparison site. Nick wishes to inform the public about their optio. Nick Bair's top article generates over 40500 views. to your Favourites.
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