How To Compare Airline Credit Cards

APR (Annual Percentage Rate)

Most airline credit cards will start off with 0APR or very low APR, but you will need to compare how long this introductory APR last. Some credit cards offer 0 APR on transfers and balance for a period of one year while others do not.

Airline limitations

Some airline credit cards limit you to traveling on only certain airlines. So when comparing cards make sure the airline you fly on frequently is allowed. You also need to check and compare cards to see which airline card offer the best rewards or rebates.

Miles

Points and rewards on airline credit cards are dependent on the number of miles traveled. Most airlines allows one mile per dollar spent, but a few airlines have different rates.

Blackout dates

Blackout dates are times when you cannot earn points if you fly. These are generally times of high volume such as holidays when many persons travel by air. This is an important factor to use when comparing credit cards. If your main time of traveling is during peak travel season selecting a card with blackout dates will earn you no points.

Ways to earn points

Credit cards that are airline specific generally offer users more ways in which to earn miles and rewards, so this should be looked at when comparing cards.

If the credit card is a frequent flyer card, different issues may come into play such as, annual fee (which is sometimes absent from regular airline credit cards). Despite this however, if you travel with a particular airline more often than not, getting an airline specific card may prove to be the best choice overall.

To compare airline credit cards, Eric Wasselman recommends Find Credit Cards. Please see www.findcreditcards.org/type/airline.php for more information.

How To Compare 0 Apr Credit Cards

Not all 0 APR credit cards are equal. Actually, in the long run, 0 APR credit cards can turn out to be pretty expensive. Most of these cards offer this low rate for a short period of time, usually for six months to twelve months. Once the introductory period is up, the rate goes up. Based on this, be sure to find out if the APR rates that will chip in after the introductory period is a fixed rate or not. A fixed rate APR will remain the same, while one that isn’t will change over time.

To make a decision on a 0 APR credit card, you need to compare the following:

• The introductory period for which the 0 APR runs
• The regular APR after the introductory period ends
• What are the annual fees applied to the card
• If you are able to transfer balances, and
• The type of credit rating you need to apply for and receive a 0 APR credit card.

The grace period before any penalties are applied to your 0 APR card should be taken into account when comparing different credit cards. Some 0 APR cards attract higher interest if bill is unpaid beyond the grace period.

Another feature that should be compared is the fees that are attached to your card, since these can really add up and your 0 APR will mean nothing.

You will also want to see what other member's benefits you get with this card before making a final decision. For instance, if you are the type of credit card holder who does not pays off your balance each month, a 0 APR credit card may be just the thing for you.

To compare 0 APR credit cards, Eric Wasselman recommends Find Credit Cards. Please see www.findcreditcards.org/type/0-apr.php for more information.

The Lowdown On The Pulaski Credit Card

Currently, the interest rate for the Pulaski Credit Card is fixed at 7.99% for new purchases, balances transfers and cash advances. This makes the card an attractive option for individuals who plan to bring forward a revolving balance. Although the annual fee of $35 is a significant cost, but upon closer inspection, you will realize that this is indeed a low and reasonable rate for credit cards with low interest rates.

In addition to the low interest rates on all transactions, this card also does not impose fees for balance transfers or cash advances. What’s more, there is also a six-month 0% introductory rate. The credit limit is set to a maximum of $15,000, with which the exact credit limit is dependent on an individual’s income amount.

Due to the overwhelming response to this card’s low interest rates, the application process can take quite a while, with 30 days being the average high. Also, more detail in personal information is requested by the Pulaski & Trust Bank for applications processing as they exercise greater diligence in their credit approval process.

On the flip side, this card does not provide much in terms of extra perks. But in view of the really low interest rates and charges, who would need all these perks when you can already save on finance costs?

To sum it up, this card would really be applicable for credit card users who plan to bring forward a large portion of their outstanding balances to the following month, or even to utilize a revolving balance. In fact, with the really low costs, the Pulaski Credit Card would also be ideal for those who are seeking for a credit card to transfer their balances to. Yes, in these cases, consumers need not look any further once they have found the Pulaski Credit Card.

For more information or to apply for the Pulaski Credit Card, Eric Wasselman recommends Find Credit Cards. See www.findcreditcards.org/card/pulaski-bank-visa-mastercard.php

Financial Planning Guide - Credit Card Debt Consolidation

The simplest way to do debt consolidation with credit and other cards is to transfer the combined balances onto another credit card with low interest rates and one low monthly payment. Most card companies do offer special introductions with low rates for this type of consolidation just for trying their card. However, though obvious, make sure the balance on your new card will cover the outstanding balances of your other cards.
Look for low interest transfers to allow for successful consolidation. Many cards offer these transfers at just 0% interest over an agreed to time period, making them perfect for consolidating your credit and store card balances. However, before taking the plunge you should understand your own situation and how much you can afford for monthly repayments. Never transfer any further balances onto a card when the introductory period is over and the transfer rates have risen to regular high levels. You could jeopardize your situation and ability to pay. What would you do at this point if your personal circumstances suddenly changed? Fact – you would be facing the same spiraling problem of accruing interest and no way of extending your time period.

Another way to consolidate your credit and store cards is simply to ask your family and friends for help. You will have to swallow your pride and embarrassment. However, family and friends have no service charges and don’t charge interest. They are much more likely to offer the lowest payment plans around. You are also definitely guaranteed to make your payments on time and talk to them if one month your finances are tighter than expected. They are much easier to negotiate with. but be wise and get everything in writing so that neither party can default on their agreement. Misunderstandings can happen. Hedge against them ahead of time.

Finally, you may wish to look into non-profit groups. They can renegotiate with your creditors to lower payments and help you avoid having to borrow money through loans or from other sources. Look at all the options now and decide what is best for you.

Johnathan Bakers writes articles principally for www.debtania.com , a web page on personal finance . His contributions on how to negotiate debt settlement are published on his site .

How To Protect Yourself From Pre-approved Credit Card Offer?

The best way to keep credit card debt down is not to use a credit card. But if you do receive a pre-approved card that intrigues you, at least know what you are getting into before signing on the bottom line:

What interest are you paying? Make sure you understand the interest rate you will be paying for. There are two types of interest rates, fixed-rate annual percentage rate (APR) and variable rates that swing according to the market rate. A better option would be APR because credit card companies have to notify you before raising rates.

The low interest rate being offered is usually only an "introductory rate" which means the rate can - and probably will - increase significantly at the end of the introductory period. This means that balances transferred from higher interest rate credit cards to the new, low introductory rate card could, over the long run, actually cost you more in interest payments. So, be aware of the terms and conditions before you sign to accept the card.

Know that a credit card may carry more than one rate. You may not aware that most of credit cards carry more than one rate. The balance transfer and cash advance normally have higher interest rate. Interest rate shows in the offer normally is the interest rate of your purchases with credit card. Hence, at the end you probably pay higher interest rate if you have balance transfer or withdraw any cash advance with your credit card.

Credit card companies may raise the interest rate if you have late payment. Some credit card companies will immediately raise your interest rate from introductory teaser rate to the regular rate if you are late just one time.

Don't accept the new credit card offer if fee involved. If there is fee involved with your new credit card, don't accept the offer. Why pay a fee for a credit card when, with good credit, you don't have to? If you have good credit, there are many other better offers which you can choose from.

Many of these cards are just preliminarily approved. This means that when you actually apply, the credit card company will reviewing your credit report in full as well as verifying information provided on your application. Terms and conditions may change according to your qualification, such as higher interest rate or smaller credit line. And if your application is rejected, it could cause at least minimal damage to your credit report.

So, in order to protect yourself, you need to carefully read all of the fine print in the offer and, if you don't fully understand and like everything you read, throw the credit card offer away. Even if you fully agree with the stated terms and conditions, do some calculations to be sure that the lower introductory rate, especially in the case of balance transfers, will actually save you money over the long run.

He is the Author from www.studykiosk.com This site is an informational website on credit basics, debt consolidation and bankruptcy. Visit her "Money Matters" blog for more credit related information.

Are You Allow To Keep Your Credit Cards In A Bankruptcy?

There are some exceptions applicable only to chapter 7 bankruptcy filers. Some credit card's issuers will allow you to keep your credit card but with a sized down credit limit, and in return you need to repay them for some of your debts. In fact, some companies will automatically send you or your attorney a proposed reaffirmation agreement, a contract between you and your creditor that you will pay all or a portion of the money owed, despite the bankruptcy filing, in exchange for a minimal amount of new credit.
Beside the sized down credit limit, a chapter 7 bankruptcy filers may allow to keep their credit cards by some of their card issuers but the interest rate will be revised to a higher than the normal interest rate. But, if you can always pay your credit balance in full each month, you will never incur a finance charge, and the high interest rate won't hurt you.

Other than chapter 7 bankruptcy filers, all credit cards must be given up at the filling of bankruptcy. However, there are credit card holders who have maintained their credit cards at zero balance for a long period of time do not report their credit cards during the filing. This action can be considered illegal since in effect your preference on one creditor (your credit card issuer) over other creditors, because repayment ordination is a trustee job.

If you are not eligible to file under chapter 7 or even you are filling under chapter 7 but you didn't manage to get approval from your credit card issuers to keep your credit cards, the best thing is report all your credit cards and give them up. In most cases, your need to wait until the bankruptcy filing has cleared and then work with a debt management consultant to rebuilt your credit step by step. Of course, in the months and years after the bankruptcy filling, you may not be eligible for top-tier or even middle-tier credit cards.

But with some efforts and fiscal strategy such pay your monthly credit balance in full and on schedule will help you to rebuilt your good credit record and you can begin to erase the stigma of the bankruptcy; and eventually put you back in the realm of good to high credit score.

In Summary

In most cases, bankruptcy filers need to give up their credit cards. But, there are exceptions for bankruptcy filers in chapter 7, the debtors who file their bankruptcy under chapter 7 may allow to keep their credit cards with some terms and conditions.

He is the Author from www.StudyKiosk.com. "StudyKiosk-Credit Basics" is an informational website on credit basics, debt consolidation and bankruptcy. To see recommended bankruptcy attorneys, visit: Recommended Bankruptcy Attorneys

How To Take Advantage Of Rewards Credit Cards

How Rewards Credit Cards Work

Companies offer a vast array of reward plans. Yet the basic principle of all rewards credit cards is the same: you receive “rewards” for using the cards. For cash back cards, companies offer a certain percentage, such as 1%, return on all of your purchases. So if you spend $2,500 with your credit card, you can expect a check for $25. Some companies include a higher percentage, such as 5%, in cash back for shopping at grocery stores and gas stations. This way you earn more cash for regular household purchases. Think about it: the $2,500 you spend could bring in a $125 check – just for shopping!

Cash back cards are not the only type of rewards credit cards available; there are plenty of others to choose from. Some rewards credit cards offer a point system. You might receive one point for each dollar spent. You can then use your points to buy certain items. Others include rebates for gas purchases, discounts on hotels, and miles toward airline travel.

Do Your Homework

With so many options available for rewards credit cards, selecting a card can be a daunting task. To make sure you are taking full advantage of a rewards credit card, you first need to do some homework. Start by looking over your recent purchases. Do you always buy groceries at a certain store? Consider a credit card that offers a high percentage of cash back on grocery store purchases. Do you spend a lot on travel? If so, look into rewards credit cards that offer points toward free air travel. Do you have a long work commute? Rewards on a gas card will help you save on car travel. If straight-up cash is what you are after, a cash back rewards card can give you just that.

Besides considering your spending habits, think about your reward preferences. Perhaps you do not usually travel, but dream of taking a vacation to Hawaii. Sign up for a rewards credit card with travel benefits. You can take that fantasy vacation as a result of the reward plan. The bottom line: study your purchasing habits and lifestyle to find out which rewards credit card is right for you.

Make it Advantageous

While rewards credit cards offer great benefits, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. Some rewards credit cards include an annual fee or high interest rate. If you carry a large balance on your card, you may end up spending more on interest than you receive in benefits. However, if you use your credit card to make ordinary purchases, pay off the balance each month, or carry a low balance, then the rewards credit card can be very beneficial.

Enjoy the Rewards

By considering your spending habits and reward preferences, you can find the perfect credit card for your lifestyle. Apply for your rewards credit card today. Then start reaping the benefits. By next year, you could be flying for free – a great reward for using a credit card!

Click here to find Rewards Credit Cards. Ed Vegliante runs www.Credit-Card-Surplus.com, a directory helping consumers to compare and apply for credit cards.