When it comes to looking for a gas credit card there are many things you will want to keep in mind. First of all, a gas credit card is very similar to any other credit card as far as what you should look for. So, keep this in mind as you begin your search. Remember that there are many benefits to gas cards and you should keep these in mind while you are comparing different cards. The following points are just a few things you will want to keep in mind when it comes to choosing a gas card.
Introductory Rate
You will want a gas card with an introductory rate of 0% for at least three months if not a year. This is great for you because it allows you to save on interest the entire first year. Of course, you don't want to get in the habit of not paying your credit card bill in full each month, but it is really nice to have a good introductory rate. Look for cards that offer them because there are many that do!
Interest Rates
You also need to keep interest rates in mind. Whether you have an introductory rate or not you will eventually have a regular interest rate to contend with. Keep this in mind because it is really important. You don't want a gas credit card with a high interest rate. Gas is already too expensive as it is and if you can't pay your card in full one month you don't want to have to deal with really high finance charges. That means you need to evaluate the interest rates in conjunction with introductory rates to see what makes the most sense to you. If you have one card offering a 5% interest rate, but no introductory rate, and you pay your card in full each month then that is better than a card offering a 0% interest for a year then 12% afterwards if you don't pay your card in full. Evaluate the whole picture when making a decision.
Benefits
Some gas cards offer great benefits just to use them. For example, you could get cheaper gas by a couple cents per gallon by using your gas card. Or, you may receive points for every dollar you spend that can be traded in for airline miles, gifts, and even cash back! Compare the benefits offered by the gas cards, compare them with the interest rates, and this will help you find the right card for you.
Card Use
Some gas cards are for gas only while others act as full credit cards. Consider which of these options is in your best interest and would work best for you. Some people find they prefer a gas only gas card because they can only use it for gas while others like the flexibility of having a gas card that can be used for multiple purposes.
When it comes down to picking out a gas credit card, make sure that you take your time when you do your research. You will find sooner or later that there will be a card that suits your needs!
Valero Gas Credit Card
1. Pay Less for Gas
With the way gas prices have been lately, who wouldn't love constant discounts? Many gas cards offer just that with generous rebate programs. Some cards offer up to five-percent back in the form of rebates. If gas is $3.00 a gallon, that's a discount of 15 cents. If you drive an SUV like me, that's a savings of $6 a tank! That can really add up over the course of a year.
2. Shaky Credit?
If you've got a tarnished credit history but want the convenience of charging your gas purchases, then a gas credit card may be just what you need. Many of these cards have more lenient credit requirements, which means that you may qualify for one even if you don't have the best credit standing and have been turned down for other cards in the past.
3. The Fleet Deal
Have a business with multiple vehicles? A fleet card may be a valuable tool. With fleet cards you can manage your business's fuel expenses and some cards even offer volume discounts on the gas you purchase. When it comes to your business's bottom line, every penny counts and fleet cards can be priceless.
4. Easy Budget Management
If you manage your gas credit card properly, it can be a very valuable analysis tool. If you use your card to purchase gas only, you can see exactly how much you're spending on fuel each and every month.
If you notice a drastic increase in fuel consumption and you know the increased spending isn't due to price hikes, you'll know something is awry with your vehicle. If you try to change your driving habits to reduce the amount of fuel you use, you'll be able to see if the changes are really working.
5. No Temptation
For those who just can't resist the temptation to spend when they have a major credit card in their wallet, gas credit cards can be a problem-solving solution.
You can use the card to build up your credit history and pay for gas purchases without having to fight the temptation of "impulse" shopping at the local department store.
It's true that the gas credit cards of yesteryear had their problems. Ridiculous interest rates and unfavorable terms abounded. Nowadays, however, this segment of the financial industry has changed and these cards have much more to offer. If you've avoided applying for a gas credit card in the past, you might want to rethink that decision.
Both Tom Tessin & Max Anderson 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.
Tom Tessin has sinced written about articles on various topics from Mileage and Fuel, Education and Finances. Get and find more of Tom's work at FINDgascards.. Tom Tessin's top article generates over 673000 views. to your Favourites.
Max Anderson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Credit Card Offers, Credit Cards and Business Credit Cards. For more tips on , saving money and avoiding getting taken, check out CreditCardTipsEtc.com, a website that specializes in providi. Max Anderson's top article generates over 49500 views. to your Favourites.
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