Category: Credit card application


0% APR Credit Cards – Tips & Tricks

Filed Under: Credit card application
Feb.17, 2012

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Credit cards can be considered to be one of the many basic necessities of the modern world. Credit cards are available nowadays in abundance. One type of credit card specifically is the so-called 0% APR credit card. 0% APR credit cards were introduced in the late 1980s and to this day has still proven to be one of the most sought-after credit card types available anywhere. As with all credit card types, there are a certain tips and tricks surrounding 0% APR credit cards that all potential card applicants should be made aware of.

With the help of a 0% APR credit card, it means that you need not only pay the outstanding balance; and what more you could even charge up to the limits without having to sustain any monthly interest charges. However, sometimes, one tends to think just how these credit card companies can afford to provide 0% APR credit cards, and make a profit out of it?

Although 0% APR credit cards may not comprise any monthly charges, it is sure to come with annual fees which you are obliged to pay for the privileges of a 0% APR credit card. These annual fees usually run from $15 to $20 or sometimes, even higher. Having a 0% APR credit card doesnt mean that you can pay your dues whenever and whichever way you intend to. It IS necessary to make your payments on time, or else, you will have to pay for high overdue fees. For each late payment, the 0% APR credit card holder has to pay fees that may range from $20 to $40. With habitual late payments, these meager amounts may accumulate to a hefty total!

It should be remembered that 0% APR credit cards are usually offered for only a stipulated period of time. This credit card interest may hold good for only a fixed period of time, usually ranging from 3 up to 15 months. On the completion of this period, a higher rate of interest may come in vogue, usually 12% or higher. You could easily transfer any existing credit card balances to a new 0% APR credit card to get 0% interest on the transferred balance. In this way, the credit card holder has to pay less interest for a stipulated period of time, and thus get a chance to clear outstanding balances as quickly as possible.

When applying for a 0% APR credit card, it is always better to read the terms and agreements of the credit card. Not to overstate an obvious question, but why should one do so? Simply because many credit cards may come with a default rate wherein late payments not only incur a late payment fee, but it would also include a default rate that will be added to the annual percentage rate. This in turn doubles the figures on the existing balances and on the new purchases made on the card moving forward. Ouch!

One very important point to take into account when applying for a 0% APR credit card is to read all paragraphs of the agreement, otherwise known as the fine print. This is because though it is illegal for a credit card company to hide their fees and charges, it is nonetheless legal for them to mention these points in small print! The 0% APR credit card companies thus usually announce in large and bold print about their 0% APR but hide the facts that this is only for a limited period of time and any extra fees which might be included are done so in very fine print.

Another trick that is up the sleeve of 0% APR credit card companies is to install sky-high APRs right after the amount of 0% APR balance transfers are paid down. In other words, the money you first pay to the credit card company is applied to the transfer, and any other purchases you make will be charged a high APR. Sometimes, credit card companies may also go to the extent of sending you a different card than the 0% APR credit card you had initially applied for. In this way, you are not allowed the 0% APR but a different card offer with different terms and conditions. The card issuers typically rationalize this behavior based on the card issuer determining that you do not meet the qualifications for a 0% APR credit card. Qualifications for a 0% APR credit card is usually found in the small print of the agreement, and is usually overseen by applicants!

It can thus be seen that though 0% APR credit cards do seem to be rather inviting, there are some loopholes and tricks to their use. As always, it is highly recommended to read the terms and conditions on the card application agreement for the 0% APR credit card, or any type of credit card application, thoroughly in order to avoid any future problems, headaches or financial surprises.

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7 FAQs When You Apply for a Credit Card

Filed Under: Credit card application
Feb.03, 2012

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There are so many credit cards out there to choose from that deciding which one to get can feel really daunting. What makes one offer better than the hundreds of others youve seen? Here are top 7 FAQs to finding the right credit card:

1. Are You a Student?

If you are, then youll be better off with a student card. Your application is likely to get accepted without problems. It would be best to contact the bank where you have your student account before you do anything else.

2. Are You Transferring a balance from another credit card?

If you are, then you need to be looking for a card with a low APR on balance transfers. APR is the acronym for Annual Percentage Rate. APR is the cost of credit, expressed as a yearly interest rate. However, do be careful of credit card offers that promise 0% introductory rates for say 6 to 9 months. There may be a catch somewhere!

3. Do You intend to Make New and Large Purchases?

If so, then pay more attention to the APR for purchases, which is usually entirely different to the one for balance transfers. You should also look at what kind of grace period different cards offer, so you dont end up paying interest on your purchases straight away.

Also called a “grace period,” a free period lets you avoid finance charges for a specified time before you are required to start paying your balance. Without a free period, the card issuer may impose a finance charge from the date you use your card or from the date each transaction is posted to your account. If your card includes a free period, the issuer mails your bill at least 14 days before the due date so you’ll have enough time to pay.

4. Do You Pay Off Your Balance In Full Every Month?

If you have a lot of money or you only keep a credit card for emergencies, then you might just pay it all off each time you get the bill. If you do, then youre in a position where you obviously dont need to worry about the interest rate much at all, since you wont be paying any interest (make sure theres a grace period, though).

5. Do You Need to consider Other fees?

Many issuers charge annual membership or participation fees. Some issuers charge a fee if you use the card to get a cash advance, make a late payment, or exceed your credit limit. Some charge a monthly fee whether or not you use the card.

6. Need Good Customer Service Support by the Issuing Bank?

This can be an important factor especially in situations of lost card or a charge that you wish to dispute. You want customer service support that is friendly and helpful. Choose a reputable bank that has excellent call center help.

7. Which Reward Program is suitable?
You may wish to consider the card that offers you the best reward programs or frequent flyer points for your needs.

In conclusion, there will be plenty of offers of credit card deals and “pre-approved” credit card application forms in your mail. However, do take the time to shop around for the right credit card for yourself.

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Applying for Instant Approval Credit Cards Online

Filed Under: Credit card application
Jan.24, 2012

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Instant approval credit cards are convenient ways in which to get you some instant credit. Apply for an instant approval credit card online and you can find out, within a few minutes if you are eligible for one or not. So an instant approval credit card is fast, its simple, and really a boon if you want some instant credit extensions. The key for getting an approval lies in making your application correctly and wisely. Here are tips that will help you get an instant approval credit card online.

Find the Right Instant Approval Credit Card

You will be spoilt for choice when you go shopping for an instant approval credit card online. It is easy to advice you to research each one of them thoroughly, but you need to know the precise factors to consider during your research. In order to give you immediate credit, the credit card company will take its pound of flesh with the following annual fees, interest rates, and other miscellaneous fees. A simple Google search will show you a quick comparison of the best rates of interest, annual fees, etc in your local area. If you have good credit, negotiate for a lesser interest rate or for zero annual fees. If you have a less than perfect credit history, find cards that offer a lower interest, less annual fees, etc

Secured Instant Approval Credit Cards

However, in case your credit history is really bad, find an instant approval credit card which offers a secured advance. You need to pay cash upfront in order to get credit. Ensure that the card reports this to the credit bureaus so that it helps you build a better credit history. Clear this point even before you apply for the card or you will have wasted your cash and your time.

Online Formalities for Instant Approval Credit Cards

You will see the online form you are required to fill out is pretty much the same as a regular credit card application form. Generally, the higher your household income, the better your chances of getting an approval. Avoid lying, as this information is useful for avoiding bankruptcy. If you inflate your household expenses, then the credit company will offer a higher credit limit. Anyone will be tempted to use up that credit limit. And if your income does not allow you to pay back your debts, you will find yourself falling quickly into the debt quicksand.

Applications for a secured instant approval credit card does not requires such details – as long as you have the money and the facility to transfer the amount from your bank account, you will be able to get yourself an secured instant approval credit card. Just ensure the site is secure you can see a small lock appearing on the bottom right side of your browser window. This prevents hackers from accessing and misusing your credit card details.

Status of Instant Approval Credit Card Online

Generally, you will know the status of your application within a minute or two. If your application has been approved, then you can immediately start spending a limited amount. However, if the company needs to have a closer look at your accounts, they may defer their decision for a few days.

However, an instant approval credit card online is still the fastest way for getting a credit card or at least, some credit extension. Instant approval credit cards have their pros and cons and if you are aware the basic formalities of getting such a card, then there is no reason why your application should be rejected. But remember, an instant approval credit card may give you increased credit and may gratify your needs immediately, but they are double edged swords ensure that your credit history is not wounded in the process of acquiring too many credit cards.

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Business Credit Cards – Providing Advantages for Small Business

Filed Under: Credit card application
Jan.15, 2012

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Personal credit cards are the most carried credit cards found today. But the benefits of business credit cards are largely misunderstood by the general public. The advantages of a business credit card are numerous and can include access to car insurance, free travel, higher credit limits and much, much more. Another advantage of some business credit cards is that they will allow you to keep your personal and business expenditures separate while simultaneously enjoying the benefits of the corresponding reward programs.

Small businesses, in particular, have discovered that maintaining a company credit card can help in expensing daily purchase items very easily. With the advent of the Internet, applying for a business credit card, whether you are a small business owner or an employee of a large corporation, is very easy.

There are a number of advantages that are found in business credit cards today that often times personal credit cards will not offer.

Business credit cards offer additional benefits that include expense management reporting that small businesses in particular find very useful. When comparing business credit cards side by side, several of the very best cards allow cardholders to create customized reports with online expense managment tools. This gives business owners the ability to login to their accounts at any time to review and download expense activity anywhere that Internet access is available. You can view recent account activity, pay your bill online, check on reward points, and even receive account alerts by e-mail, cell phone, PDA or pager notification. Accounts can be setup to pay expenses and ongoing bills automatically with a commonly used Bill-Pay option offered by a few of the leading card issuing companies. Several card offers also feature the ability to download and integrate card statement information directly into QuickBooks, a commonly used accounting program for small business owners. If cardholders ever need to dispute a questionable charge, it can be done online or over the phone with no paperwork. Lastly, many business credit cards offer the ability to access credit lines from their existing account that provides significant financing flexibility for short-term cash requirements that will not require collateral as would a traditional bank loan.

In addition to this, many small business credit cards also offer significant reward programs that include cash back rebates, office supply and merchant discounts and air & travel rewards.

Applying for a business credit card can be done in 3 easy steps. First, applicants should take the time to search and compare the variety of business credit cards online utilizing the Internet where consumers can find a vast array of resource and comparison sites to aid in the selection process. After thoroughly comparing offers and selecting a card based on your specific criteria, cardholders can simply and easily apply for the selected credit card by filling out an online credit card application. Credit card issuers offer a safe and secure environment for cardholders applying online, which also allows cardholders to expedite the application process without any significant delays.

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Business Credit Card – How to Find The Right Card

Filed Under: Credit card application
Jan.08, 2012

Business Credit Card – How to Find The Right Card

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Depending upon the type of business you have should dictate what type of business credit card you get. Just like the needs of people vary so do the needs of various businesses. Depending upon whether or not your business is in sound financial shape, or not, should affect your credit card requirements as well. Your personal bank will regularly send you applications for their line of credit cards that might include very attractive features and benefits. Each time you get that letter it will get better.

Other companies will send you additional business credit card applications as well. Most small businesses and even large companies will take the credit card they receive first based entirely on the fact that it came from their banking institution specifically. Before even attempting to compare business credit cards, business owners, many times, end up applying for these offers because of the recognition and comfort level that the local institution provides them. Although this sounds great, it is not usually the best method. Yes, as a business, you will want a credit card as soon as possible while other card companies may not know of your existence. While your first business credit card application will typically come from your bank, once you have established yourself with the State and Federal agencies, however, the applications should start pouring in.

A new business will have a non-existent credit history and it will also have different needs that established businesses. The business credit card companies know this, and they properly anticipate that new small business owners will be seeking a business credit card sooner than later. This is where the problem comes in – when you want one as soon as possible instead of waiting to properly research and select one. But there is a much better solution to acquiring a credit card for your business.

As you may already know, the Internet is an invaluable source for information. I do not suggest applying for one until your business is registered with the state and federal agencies; however, you can surely pick and choose those that would be right for your business before those papers are registered. Once you have all your paperwork in hand, apply for the business credit card offer that most closely fits your type of business. Sounds easy enough, right?

There are some things to be aware of however. If you are a new business the credit card company will look at your personal credit history first. If you are an established company, the credit issuers will draw upon the credit history of the business entity itself, not your personal credit history. One flaw in your business’ credit history could stop the application dead in its tracks.

If you are the only one in your business or company that uses the business credit card then I would recommend a business reward credit card. A business reward card can be difficult, but not impossible, to manage when you have several cards floating around among different employees. Employees holding cards might want the reward points for their own personal use and might not be willing to use the card as often as you’d like them to. This makes it harder to claim who gets what from the incentives. Do you separate out the reward points or will you use the points yourself, and if so, will others feel bad about you getting the rewards? Of course, you will not have to deal with this issue if it is only you using the card.

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Choose A Credit Card Based On Its Terms And Conditions

Filed Under: Credit card application
Dec.25, 2011

Choose A Credit Card Based On Its Terms And Conditions

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Almost everybody receives numerous credit card offer letters in their mailboxes at least once a week if not every single day. The envelopes usually contain some sort of wording like, “This is the last chance!” or, “Offer Expires Soon!”

With so many pieces of mail arriving on a frequent basis, all written with similar “rush” tones, it’s hard to figure out which one is really a genuinely good offer. It can be tough to compare the differences between potential credit card accounts because they may seem exactly the same at first glance, but may be very different once the fine print is read and understood.

So, before blindly filling out the application for a credit card that looks good at first glance, make sure to carefully go over the details of the card, and make sure it’s really the best one available.

Fees
Are there fees associated with the credit card? Many credit cards offer “no fees” for the first few months that the account is open, but then begin charging fees for making purchases, using the card for cash advances, and sometimes there are even annual fees for owning the card! Different credit card companies charge different fees for the same services, so comparing the fees on all potential credit card offers can help determine which card is the best deal.

Annual Percentage Interest Rate
The annual percentage interest rate, or “APR,” on credit cards is one of the details of the card that is easy to determine. Obviously, a card that charges 2.9 percent on balances is going to be a better deal than a credit card that charges 15.9 percent on balances. However, one thing to consider is whether or not the APR is a variable rate. If it’s variable, that means that the credit card company can raise the interest rate. So, read the fine print on the back of the credit card application to determine whether or not the APR is fixed or variable, and if it’s variable – find out the terms of possible raises in rates.

Interest rates can also vary depending on the type of charge on the card. For example, purchases may be at a 2.9 percent interest rate, but cash advances may be at a much higher rate. For anyone who truly believes that they will never use their credit card for cash advances, this difference in interest rate percentage may not be a concern.

“Miles” or “Points” Cards
Besides credit cards that can be simply used for purchasing goods and services, some credit cards offer frequent flyer miles on designated airlines or “points” that can be used in a specific store when dollars are charged to the card. Most times, for every dollar charged, a mile or a point is earned. These types of credit cards usually have steep annual fees associated with them – usually between $50 and $100 per year. However, many times the annual fee is worth the cost if enough points can be earned to actually earn some sort of reward, such as a round-trip airline ticket.

Making Payments
Different credit cards are on different monthly payment schedules. Some require that payments be made every 30 days, and others are slightly different. It’s important to choose a credit card that has a billing cycle compatible with when money will be available to make the payments. Also, all credit cards will charge late fees if monthly payments are made late. Make sure to choose a credit card with the least severe penalties for late payments (although it’s best to NEVER send a payment later than its actual due date).

With so many credit card choices and so many potential offers arriving practically daily in the mailbox, it’s not a good idea to jump on the first one. Gather a few that look good and carefully compare all of the cards’ terms and conditions, fee structures, interest rates, and payment schedules, and use that to determine the very best one.

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Choosing Your Credit Card Based On APR

Filed Under: Credit card application
Dec.14, 2011

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If you expect to always pay your monthly bill in full–and other features such as frequent flyer miles dont interest you–your best choice may be a card that has no annual fee and offers a longer grace period.

If you sometimes carry over a balance from month to month, you may be more interested in a card that carries a lower interest rate (stated as an annual percentage rate, or APR).

If you expect to use your card to get cash advances, youll want to look for a card that carries a lower APR and lower fees on cash advances. Some cards charge a higher APR for cash advances than for purchases.

What are the APRs?

The annual percentage rate–APR–is the way of stating the interest rate you will pay if you carry over a balance, take out a cash advance, or transfer a balance from another card. The APR states the interest rate as a yearly rate.

Multiple APRs
A single credit card may have several APRs:

One APR for purchases, another for cash advances, and yet another for balance transfers. The APRs for cash advances and balance transfers often are higher than the APR for purchases (for example, 14% for purchases, 18% for cash advances, and 19% for balance transfers).

Tiered APRs. Different rates are applied to different levels of the outstanding balance (for example, 16% on balances of $1$500 and 17% on balances above $500).

A penalty APR. The APR may increase if you are late in making payments. For example, your card agreement may say, If your payment arrives more than ten days late two times within a six-month period, the penalty rate will apply.

An introductory APR. A different rate will apply after the introductory rate expires.

A delayed APR. A different rate will apply in the future. For example, a card may advertise that there is no interest until next March. Look for the APR that will be in effect after March.

If you carry over a part of your balance from month to month, even a small difference in the APR can make a big difference in how much you will pay over a year.

Fixed vs. variable APR
Some credit cards are fixed rate–the APR doesnt change, or at least doesnt change often. Even the APR on a fixed rate credit card can change over time. However, the credit card company must tell you before increasing the fixed APR.

Other credit cards are variable rate–the APR changes from time to time. The rate is usually tied to another interest rate, such as the prime rate or the Treasury bill rate. If the other rate changes, the rate on your card may change, too. Look for information on the credit card application and in the credit card agreement to see how often your cards APR may change (the agreement is like a contract–it lists the terms and conditions for using your credit card).

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Compare and Find the Best Deal on Business Credit Cards

Filed Under: Credit card application
Dec.03, 2011

Compare and Find the Best Deal on Business Credit Cards

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The internet search engines are making it increasingly easier to obtain relevant information about financial products such as business credit cards. By opting to compare the different options you have at your disposal online, you are saved from the trouble of physically having to request or even worse, having to fetch the different brochures and leaflets from business credit card issuers.

You will come across a number of available websites, each containing a broad selection some for specifically for small business credit cards and some for corporate business credit cards. A couple of web sites are purely informational, offering reviews about the many brands of business credit cards, and providing the pros and cons of each. There are also sites that allow you to compare up to four business credit cards side by side, making it possible for shoppers to juxtapose the corresponding business credit card features.

Among the features of business credit cards, you should consider comparing the business credit cards annual percentage rate (APR). Although it may not be your intention to carry a balance on the business credit card bill from one month to the next, good sense will in all likelihood dictate that you may have to if your business gets into an unexpected cash flow squeeze. It is essential that you look for low or zero percent APR business credit card offers, in case circumstances only allow you to pay partial amounts as opposed to the full balance due on your business credit cards.

Another thing you may want to take into account is the fees related to obtaining a business credit card. At the time you do your comparative shopping, you should make sure that the business credit card companies do not cancel out the rewards and bonuses they offer with their products after you have filed your business credit card application.

In case you still do not find the right business credit cards to match your business needs, you may consider approaching the banks that issue business credit cards. You can call your own local bank, where you keep the deposit accounts and maintain the line of credit for your business, first. Then compare their business credit card offers with the business credit card products of the big national banks. Most banks would be happy to keep you as one of their valued business clients and may offer special rates on business credit cards.

Comparing different types of business credit cards may be tedious and time consuming, but it is time worth spent. You should be able to locate a business credit card that does not only provide substantial savings but also maximum benefits for your business. Business credit cards can help you gain an edge over your competitors: Your business should be more able to take on larger deals, and subsequently expand due to the guaranteed credit line and other financing features of your business credit cards.

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Credit cards add that bit of security in your life

Filed Under: Credit card application
Nov.25, 2011

Credit cards add that bit of security in your life

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Credit cards do add a bit of extra punch to your life. Nowadays you can apply for zero interest credit cards and pay all your bills and expenses with the card and then pay back within the stipulated time frame and pay no interest too. There are many that offer you low interest credit cards but they come along with a host of extra benefits and surprising offers. Your credit card could actually save a lot of money for you. Sounds amazing well, apply for a credit card and then reap the benefits and see how your credit card also saves money for you too.

You can get to your nearest bank or any of the financial institutions that offer credit cards. Give in your credit card application, read carefully what the credit card has to offer. Different credit cards offer you different kinds of benefits and offers. You need to choose the right one for yourself. Most credit cards charge you a nominal annual fee but generally the offers and discounts they offer hugely overweigh the annual fees that you have to pay to keep the credit card active. There are many low interest credit cards and they are very popular in all parts of the world.

There are a host of services that are offered by the credit cards. From exclusive lounges to airports and free car wash at the gas station while you fill your car up, credit card holders do really enjoy a host of free services just by making a credit card transaction. Imagine if you had to pay for the services, how much money it would have cost you. Well, is that not a saving for you? Zero interest credit cards really ease up your expenses for you. Buy something during Christmas and you can easily pay back the next month and no interest is charged, it is truly like borrowing money from a friend.

Before you fill up your credit card application, do take time to find out about all the services and billing dates that the credit card has to offer. Some of the credit cards also offer low interest credit and easy installments pay back. There are many that do not charge any fees and also offer you zero installment credit. It is for you to decide which kind of credit card would be ideally beneficial for you. You can take the help of the customer service personnel of the credit card offering bank or financial institute to access your needs and suggest you the best credit card that would allow you a comfortable credit and at the same time extra benefits for you.

Fill in your credit card application today and feel the comfort of having a zero interest credit card or a low interest credit card. Whatever suits your need a credit card would really add a pinch of security into your life. Start using credit cards right away and experience the fun of not having to carry cash and enjoy the free benefits and offers that come along with all credit cards.

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Credit Card Comparisons Guide

Filed Under: Credit card application
Nov.20, 2011

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Shopping around for a credit card can save you money on interest and fees. Youll want to find one with features that match your needs. This information can help you

  • Understand the features of credit cards
  • Compare credit card features and costs
  • Know your rights when using your credit card
  • File a complaint if you have a problem with your credit card

    How will you use your card?

    The first step in choosing a credit card is thinking about how you will use it.

  • If you expect to always pay your monthly bill in full–and other features such as frequent flyer miles dont interest you–your best choice may be a card that has no annual fee and offers a longer grace period.
  • If you sometimes carry over a balance from month to month, you may be more interested in a card that carries a lower interest rate (stated as an annual percentage rate, or APR).
  • If you expect to use your card to get cash advances, youll want to look for a card that carries a lower APR and lower fees on cash advances. Some cards charge a higher APR for cash advances than for purchases.

    Whats the APR?

    The annual percentage rate–APR–is the way of stating the interest rate you will pay if you carry over a balance, take out a cash advance, or transfer a balance from another card. The APR states the interest rate as a yearly rate.

    How long is the Grace Period?

    The grace period is the number of days you have to pay your bill in full without triggering a finance charge. For example, the credit card company may say that you have 25 days from the statement date, provided you paid your previous balance in full by the due date. The statement date is given on the bill.
    The grace period usually applies only to new purchases. Most credit cards do not give a grace period for cash advances and balance transfers. Instead, interest charges start right away.

    If you carried over any part of your balance from the preceding month, you may not have a grace period for new purchases. Instead, you may be charged interest as soon as you make a purchase (in addition to being charged interest on the earlier balance you have not paid off). Look on the credit card application for information about the method of computing the balance for purchases to see if new purchases are included or excluded. Information on methods of computing the balance is in the section How is the finance charge calculated?

    These are just some of the considerations you will have to be aware of when choosing a credit card. The bottom line is that you should always read the small print and think about what it is you are agreeing to and whether or not this is what you need.

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