Monday, October 5, 2009

Choosing a Low Interest Rate Credit Card

By Bob Jones

If a credit card is managed properly, it can be one of the most powerful financial tools. But not everybody can afford to pay the expensive interest rates that most credit card issuers charge. This is where low interest rate credit cards can assist people who plan to keep a balance on their account and not to pay the full amount monthly. But, what does interest or APR stands for when talking about low interest rate credit cards?

Basically, APR is the cost of credit as a yearly interest rate. APR stands for "Annual Percentage Rate" and can be used to compare various credit and loan offers. The APR on credit cards is usually calculated monthly based on the current amount on the credit card.

The monthly interest is worked out as if the current card amount would stay the same over a year; the interest on the balance over a year (APR) is calculated and divided by 12 to get the monthly interest. It is a requirement that all lenders tell the client what their APR is before signing any agreement.

Although the arrangements and terms do differ from one lender to another, it is better for people to get low interest rate credit cards because the lower the APR, the better the deal for them to spend more money shopping.

Why choose low interest rate credit cards? Low APR credit cards are a good choice for those people who are into stricter financial budgeting. Being the most important attribute of a credit card, APR determines the balance over a period of time.

With regard to low interest rate credit cards, the amount of interest one must pay on his or her credit card balance depends on its APR. Therefore, the lower the APR is, the better it is him or her because it means they have to pay less interest. APR's on low interest rate credit cards can either be 'fixed' or 'variable'.

If you plan on getting low interest rate credit cards, there are many cards that offer low APRs to be found on the Internet. These low interest rate credit cards are selected using a factoring scheme that ordered these cards by computing a number of their attributes to place the best deals at the top.

One of the questions one should to pose when looking for low interest rate credit cards is about the charges: whether they vary or are fixed. If these charges are variable, they might affect the repayments and if these rate are fixed, the repayments stay the same. Searching for low interest rate credit cards may also include inquiries on the possibility of any charges that are not included in the APR like optional payment protection insurance or an annual fee.

If there are any, make sure that you understand what they are and when you must pay them. Lastly, looking for low interest rate credit cards should include questions on the conditions of the credit and how these conditions suit you.

If you are looking for low interest rate credit cards, you could begin seeking for a credit card that could save you hundreds in interest with a low interest credit card and low cost processing. Most low interest rate credit cards offer 0% APR for the first few months on purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers.

Low interest rate credit cards can offer rebates on certain items purchased. They also offer $0 liability on unauthorized purchases, and no annual fees. Some low interest rate credit cards have very good introductory rates for purchases. They also offer good deals if one carries high amounts on other cards and need to transfer the balance.

Indeed, having low interest rate credit cards can be useful and convenient, and can even assist create a strong credit history that will help you with future activities like home-buying, paying for higher education, and even finding a job. But, before you apply for low interest rate credit cards, consider the advantages and disadvantages especially with regard to the current financial situation you are in.

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