Plain English Credit Cards: Understanding Credit Card Jargon

Credit card offers seem to be everywhere, on TV, radio, online and in your mail. So how do you cut through the marketing spin and actually figure out the difference between the credit cards and pick the best credit card for your needs?

In order to compare credit cards you should understand the main features found in most credit card offers.

Balance Transfer APR: APR stands for annualised percentage rate and is the equivalent annual interest rate. In this case it represents the rate you will pay on balances transferred from other credit or store cards for the duration of an introductory period such as six or twelve months. Look out for transfer fees which are upfront fees calculated as a percentage of the balance transferred.

Introductory Purchase APR: This is the interest rate that you will pay on purchases for a promotional period once you take out the card. Don’t get caught out by these intro offers, check out the small print to see that you won’t get stung if you still have balances owing when the offer period expires.

Purchase APR: This is the standard credit card APR charged on purchases. If you don’t think you will pay your bills off in full each month then a low interest credit card rate will be important while if you will pay your bill in full each month then you may not pay any interest so the rate is less of an issue.

Interest free days / grace period: You may see claims such as ‘up to 44 days interest free’ advertised. This is the time period from making a payment until the bill is due. Look for cards with a long grace period as this will give you a longer period between making a purchase and the due date each month to avoid any interest charges. If there is no grace period the you’ll be paying interest from the day or purchase and you’ll be hit even if you pay your bill in full and on time each month.

Annual Fee: most cards have now dropped their annual fees but you may find that some premium cards do still charge an annual fee in exchange for extra features. Alwats ensure that the value to you of extra features such as insurances are greater than the annual card costs.

Rewards scheme: Rewards schemes come in all different shapes and sizes such as cash back, shopping rebates, points, airline rewards and much more. Do some basic math before you apply and calculate if the rewards your liekly to earn will be greater than the interest and fees. Also choose a card that offers rewards that you want. Most rewards programs offer rewards that average around one cent in value per dollar spent so don’t spend up just to earn some extra points, it’s simply not worth it.

Next time you’re looking for a new credit card you should have a good understanding of how to compare credit card offers side by side before you apply. There is no card that is the best for everyone; you just need to pick a card that will work for you.

This article is by Richard Greenwood a keen consumer advocate helping consumers getting a better deal. Richard runs www.compareyourbank.com.au