Standard
Standard Credit Cards Standard credit cards are the most typical type of credit cards. These are unsecured credit cardsthat are readily available from most banks and financial groups. These types of cards vary in how the annual percentage rate (APR) is offered or calculated. Here are several examples:
Balance Transfer Credit CardsBalance Transfer Credit Cards are designed to allow consumers to transfer a higher interest credit card balance onto a credit card with a lower interest rate, thus saving them money in interest charges. For example, if you transfer a balance to a credit card with a low introductory APR of 0%, the APR for this balance will typically stay at this 0% interest level for a specified period of time, thus potentially saving the consumer hundreds of dollars in interest charges. The terms of balance transfer credit cards can vary between offers, so be sure to thoroughly read the terms and conditions for each specific card.
Low Interest Credit Cards Low Interest Credit Cardsoffer either a low introductory APR that changes to a higher rate after a certain period of time or a low fixed rate APR. For example, you may get an introductory APR credit card with an interest rate of 5% for the first six months and 10% thereafter. Then, for the first six months, any purchases or balances you carry will be only charged a 5% annual interest rate. However, any new purchases or balances that carry over after the six-month period will now be subject to a 10% APR.
Many people take advantage introductory APRs to make larger purchases, so that they can take several months to pay them off. Low APR Credit Cards can help save consumers a lot of money on interest charges. However, be sure to read all the terms and conditions of the reduced introductory rate, so that you will not be penalized by fees or accumulated interest. |