The country have been continually hit with economic rain showers these past few months. We have seen gas prices rise to record levels and there seems to be no indication that these economic rain showers will stop from pouring. Motorists are keen on saving gas money and stretching it every way they can. The use of gas cards have considerably increased. Everyone seems to see this as the ultimate gas-saving device.

This increase in the usage of gas cards alone, would encourage you to start using one. But first ask yourself these questions. What are in gas cards? What do they have to offer?

There are several types of gas cards available out there- prepaid gas cards, gas credit cards, specific gas cards and general rewards card. Prepaid gas cards are cards whose available amounts you can control. This cards can be preloaded and used up to your desire amount. Loads for prepaid gas cards are usually sold at a discount so in buying the load alone, you already earn savings.

Gas credit cards on the other hand, are just like ordinary credit cards. You can use it to pay for any purchases only that you earn savings every time you use it for gas purchases. Every time you pump gas and use your gas credit card to pay, you earn rebates. The current percentage of rebates, are between 2% to 5% depending on the issuing company. Your rebates are in the form of rewards points that can accumulate during the billing period. These can be redeemed after the billing period or once it reaches its redeemable amount. Rewards can be converted into cash back which is usually credited to your existing card or are issued to you in the form of checks or gift cards. Rewards however differ, depending on the issuing company. Not all of them are in the form of cash backs. Some offer to convert rewards points into airline tickets, products and gift certificate to their affiliated companies.

When you think of credit cards, you usually also think of high interest rates. Gas credits do carry an annual percentage rate or APR which is charged against the card's maintaining balance. With gas credits cards however, you are given a chance to escape paying for this interest. Once you pay your bill in full and on time, you will not be charged with the annual percentage rate.

Specific gas cards can come in the form of prepaid or credit. This card also offers gas rebates only that they can only be redeemed if the gas purchase is done at their affiliated or specific gas stations. General rewards cards on the other hand, works just the opposite of specific cards. They can be used at any gas stations and you earn rebates for every purchase.

Gas cards really do offer you opportunities for savings and stretching your gas money. Now that you know how they work, go and get yourself a gas card.