Balance Transfer Credit Cards: Get the

Most From Your Balance Transfer

Author: Stephanie Andrews

Do you have a nagging balance on one of your credit cards? Did you know you can pay it off, and save hundreds of dollars at the same time? A balance transfer credit card will help you do just that. This type of card lets you bring over an existing balance or loan and pay it off at a lower interest rate. Here’s how to get the most out of a balance transfer credit card.
Transfer the Balance
Before applying for a balance transfer card, you’ll want to check out your options. First look at the fees involved, as these may vary from card to card. Many companies charge a certain amount to bring over an existing balance. The usual rate is around 3 percent of the total amount, and some cards include a cap of $50 or $75. In most cases, the money you save in interest will outweigh the cost of transferring.
Also compare the interest rates. Balance transfer cards usually come with a 0% APR period. This means that you will have a certain time, usually between six and twelve months, during which you will not be charged any interest. You can use this time to pay off the balance.
Get the Most from it
Once you’ve found the best balance transfer card to apply for, it’s time to pay off the debt. Ideally, you will want to pay it off within the initial zero percent interest timeframe. Say you transfer a balance of $2,400 and you have twelve months of 0% APR. All you need to do is put $200 toward the debt each month for twelve months. Pay that amount at the beginning of each month, or every time you receive a paycheck.

Think about it: if you pay off the $2,400 balance on the card within a year, you will save hundreds of dollars. If your previous card charged 18% APR, and you carried the balance for a year, you would have to pay $432 in interest! That is a significant savings.

If it becomes difficult to pay $200 each month, reduce the amount you pay to $150. Then keep paying that amount until the entire balance is paid off.
Use the Card
Many experts recommend paying off credit card debt before using a new card. This rule of thumb applies to balance transfer credit cards too. Some cards are set up so that if you make new purchases, the amount you pay each month will first be applied to those, and then to the transferred balance. This can make it hard to pay off the balance in its entirety. To avoid problems, don’t use your new credit card right away. Put it in a drawer until you have paid off the balance.
Once the debt is paid off, you can begin using the card. Many balance transfer cards come with additional perks such as rewards programs or cash back options. So when you start shopping with the card, you will receive even more benefits. Try to pay off the amount on the card each month to avoid interest charges and late fees.
A balance transfer credit card can help straighten out your finances. Apply online for one today and you’ll notice the difference right away. Soon you’ll be debt-free, thanks to your credit card.

About the Author:
Click Here to Find Balance Transfer Credit Card Offers

Stephanie Andrews is a contributing editor of the website http://www.creditcardcity.com/ , a credit card directory where you can apply for a new card with online applications.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/balance-transfer-credit-cards-get-the-most-from-your-balance-transfer-506995.html

0% APR Credit Cards - Are They Right For You?

Author: Stephanie Andrews

As you look for a new credit card, you'll find that many offer a feature known as 0% APR. This means you will not be charged interest for a certain period of time after you sign up for the card. Is this condition worthwhile? Or should you be searching for other benefits? Read on to learn what's involved in 0% APR offers, the advantages of them, and whether or not they are the right pick to add to your credit card collection.
A Look at 0% APR
APR stands for "annual percentage rate." It is a term that refers to the interest rate that will be applied to the balance on your card. It is usually expressed in a yearly rate.

Many credit card issuers offer an initial 0% APR, or interest-free, period. This usually lasts between six and twelve months. It can apply toward new purchases, balance transfers, or both. After the 0% APR period expires, a regular interest rate sets in.
What to Look For
Before you apply for a 0% APR card, you'll want to check some important details. First, find out what the 0% APR applies to. If it can be used toward balance transfers, you may want to bring a balance over from a card that has a higher interest rate. You can pay off what you owe during the introductory period. By doing so, you'll save a bundle in interest charges.

You'll also want to look at the time period involved. 0% APR offers are only valid for a certain amount of time before they expire. The exact amount can vary, depending on your credit history and score. In some cases, you may find a card that offers 0% APR for "up to 12 months." Take careful note of the phrase "up to." It usually means that only those with very good credit will receive the longer time frame.
More to Consider
In most cases, the 0% APR feature is very beneficial. It gives you a chance to bring over an existing balance and get rid of it, or make a new purchase and pay it off, interest-free. It can save you hundreds of dollars in interest in just a few months.

The 0% APR feature is not the only item to look for in a credit card, however. Be sure to consider the regular APR. When the initial interest-free period ends, this rate will set in. You'll also want to take note of any annual fees involved, other rewards offered, and the various finance charges.

If you plan to pay off your balance each month, the 0% APR feature may not mean as much. If you do regularly carry a balance, you might want to consider a credit card that has a regular low fixed interest rate. This will ensure that over a long period of time, you will not get bogged down with high interest payments.

For many consumers, the 0% APR credit card offers excellent benefits. Before applying for one, make sure that all of the card's features fit your needs and lifestyle. Once you get the card, take advantage of the initial interest-free period. Pay off an existing balance, or make a large purchase and pay it off over the next few months. You'll come out ahead, with plenty of change to spare.

About the Author:
Click Here to Find 0% APR Credit Card Offers. Stephanie Andrews is a contributing editor of the website http://www.creditcardcity.com/ - a credit card directory where you can apply for a new credit card with secure online applications. Visit now to compare all of the best online credit card offers.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/0-apr-credit-cards-are-they-right-for-you-707750.html

Instant Approval Credit Cards

Instant Approval Credit Cards: For an

Instant Online Decision

Author: Stephanie Andrews

If you look online for a credit card, you'll find that some credit cards offer a feature known as "instant approval." The idea of getting something so soon can be very appealing. While this type of card has many perks, it's important to understand what's all involved before you apply for one. Here's the scoop on instant approval credit cards.
An Answer in less than a Minute
If you apply online for an instant approval credit card, you will usually find out in less than 60 seconds whether or not you've been approved for it. This is because credit card companies, when they receive your application, run a quick credit check. They then make a decision based on what they find.
In most cases, a credit card company will look at your FICO score. This is a score that is based on various factors, including your credit history and current standings. A FICO score can fall anywhere between 300 and 850. Higher scores indicate better credit.

If you're not sure what your credit score is, you may want to check before applying for an instant approval credit card. If you know that you have good or excellent credit, you have a very good chance of getting approved for a credit card. While better credit will help you get more cards, some companies have recently issued instant approval credit cards for those with low credit scores.
After the Approval
Once a company sends you its decision, it then does a more thorough check into your credit history. This means that the answer you first receive could potentially change when the company finds out more information. That said, this rarely happens in the credit card world. If you receive an email that states you have been approved for a card, it is very unlikely that the answer will change.
After the company grants approval, your card is sent to you through the mail. It usually arrives in five to seven business days. When you receive the card, you'll have to authorize it. Then you can use it however you want to.
Other Features
Many instant approval credit cards come with other benefits, so you'll want to look for one that fits your lifestyle. You may be interested in low interest rates, a rewards program, or the chance to transfer a different balance to the new card. Whatever the case, be sure to consider the other features attached to the card before you apply.

In today's fast-paced world, many consumers want to know right away whether or not they've been approved for a credit card. With online applications, you have the opportunity to receive an answer in less than a minute. This can help you as you shop for credit cards, and plan how you will use them.
Once you have the card, it is important to manage it wisely. Try to avoid carrying a balance whenever possible, and take advantage of any rewards offered. With a little planning, you can make your instant approval credit card last a long time.

About the Author:
Click Here to Find Instant Approval Credit Cards Stephanie Andrews is a contributing editor of the website http://www.creditcardcity.com/ , a credit card directory where you can apply for a new credit card with secure online applications. Visit now to compare all of the best online credit card offers.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/instant-approval-credit-cards-for-an-instant-online-decision-736023.html

Visa Or MasterCard - What is the Difference?

Author: Stephanie Andrews

Start shopping for a new credit card, and you'll quickly find that the vast majority carry the name Visa or MasterCard on them. Trying to figure out which of these names implies a better deal can be confusing. If you're struggling to sort out the differences between Visa and MasterCard, you're not alone. Read on for an inside look at these credit companies and what they mean for you.
imilarities between Visa and MasterCard
Most financial experts are quick to point out that Visa and MasterCard operate in almost exactly the same way. Both are major international companies. Both create and maintain payment systems for credit cards and carefully track transactions.

It should be noted neither Visa nor MasterCard actually issue credit cards. They work with banks and financial institutions, which are the companies that issue credit cards to consumers. Citibank, Bank of America, and Chase are just a few of the many companies that take care of this part of the credit business.

Both MasterCard and Visa work with retailers and merchants around the world. These places accept credit cards and, like the banks and financial institutions, use the systems created by MasterCard and Visa. Tracking these transactions is no small task: billions of dollars go through the system every single day.
Differences between Visa and MasterCard
While Visa and MasterCard operate in a similar way, there are still differences between the two. They are separate companies, and thus each of them has their own set of unique features. Some customers have a personal preference toward either Visa or MasterCard.

As you look for a card, it is wise to look at all of the different features that it offers. While many are backed by either Visa or MasterCard, they also list a variety of additional benefits. Some cards specialize in low interest rates, while others offer valuable deals on balance transfers. Rewards programs, introductory offers, and grace periods are other items to consider. You'll want to sort through all of these different characteristics as you search for your best option.

If you already have a Visa or MasterCard and are looking for another piece of plastic, you may choose to go with a card backed by the other company. While the risks are incredibly small, you'll have another option to use in case something happens to one of the companies. Similarly, if one of these cards is not accepted at a store, you'll most likely be able to use the other one.

By and large, there are few differences between Visa and MasterCard. Some of the biggest differences simply lie in personal preference. If you feel more comfortable with one, you may be inclined to stay with the company. If you want variety, consider getting a card from both of these credit card kings.

When you shop for a new credit card, you'll want to see which company's name is listed on it. Perhaps more important, however, will be looking for the other benefits included in the card. Find one that fits your financial lifestyle. It will most likely be your best option, regardless of whether it says Visa or MasterCard on it.

About the Author:
Click Here to Find Visa or MasterCard Offers. Stephanie Andrews is a contributing editor of the website http://www.creditcardcity.com/ a credit card directory where you can apply for a new credit card with secure online applications. Visit now to compare all of the best online credit card offers.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/visa-or-mastercard-what-is-the-difference-749271.html