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Incentives your Credit Card Company may be using to get your Attention

Credit Card Rewards

The credit card industry is gradually going through a number of changes as the economy begins to improve. In particular, credit card companies are extending credit to consumers with strong credit score and are rolling out the red carpet in terms of attractive offers. Here are some of the best incentives being offered to credit card consumers:

• Zero Percent Introductory Rates – The zero percent introductory rates were a thing of the past couple years, and many analysts these types of introductory offers would never make a comeback. However, it looks as if they were wrong, as credit card companies, over the last, few months, have really stepped up to the plate in terms of offering great zero-percent introductory rates and balance transfer rates. Before applying for one of these introductory offers, however, carefully read the terms and conditions associated with the zero percent introductory rate so you can be sure you are getting an attractive deal on balance transfer fees.
• Cash-Back Rewards – Cash back rewards are, perhaps, the most popular type of reward offered by credit card companies. In fact, it is quite common to find credit cards with very attractive cash back rewards features. When searching for a cash back rewards credit card, search for the card that best fits your spending style, and pay close attention to rolling rewards so you can maximize your cash back benefits.
• Travel Rewards – If you are a frequent traveler, it may be quite advantageous for you to apply for a travel rewards credit card. From airline rewards to gas perks and hotel rewards, a travel rewards credit card is ideal for business travelers or for those individuals who simply travel often on pleasure. Credit card companies are offering plenty of attractive travel rewards, so take the time to examine which one best fit your travel needs.
• Student Credit Cards – Credit card companies are offering up plenty of easy repayment terms for students, so using a student credit card to establish credit and to begin building your credit history is often a good move to make. Credit card companies, in response to scrutiny and legislation from the government, have included a number of features that help keep students on track in terms of their finances and budget.

An Overview of some of the Best 0% Credit Cards

Credit Card Rewards

We love 0% interest credit cards and it’s been great seeing their return to the credit card marketplace following a couple years of super-tight lending standards.

If you want a 0% interest credit card and you have the credit history to earn one, then you owe it to yourself to check out some of these credit cards:

• Citi Platinum Select Mastercard – This is the no-frills credit card you’ve been searching for. If you have flawless credit and you simply want a great credit card with a 0% interest rate then you need to check out the Citi Platinum Select Mastercard. Don’t expect rewards, airline miles or rebates with this card, though; you can, however, expect a 0% interest rate for a full year on all your purchases. In addition, expect an 18-mont, 0% interest balance transfer offer, as well. However, expect to pay a 4 percent service fee for doing so.
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards – Capital One isn’t giving their VentureOne Rewards credit cards out freely, but if you have the credit history to back you, then you can enjoy this prime credit card. The VentureOne Rewards credit card offers flexible travel rewards and loads of bonus opportunities. In addition, Capital One doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, thereby luring in many travelers. The 0% promotional rate for this card runs between nine to 12 months.
• Chase Slate – Chase’s Slate credit card offers a 0% balance transfer offer, along with a 3 percent service fee. In addition, this card offers 0% interest on purchases for 12 months.
• Citi Diamond Preferred – The Citi Diamond Preferred credit card offers just about everything for the consumer with excellent credit. From bonus points and a great rewards program to a 0% interest on balance transfers (along with a 3 percent service fee), Citi Diamond Preferred is a great choice. In addition, this card offers an incredibly low “prime plus” interest rate beyond its promotional period.

How to Find the Best Travel Rewards Credit Card

Credit Card Rewards

Travel rewards credit cards are a great perk for travelers; but all travel rewards credit cards are not created equal.

Don’t assume that your travel rewards credit card is just as good as the competition, as travel rewards credit cards can vary greatly regarding their rewards, terms and conditions.

So, how do you know if you’re getting best rewards credit card? Start by looking for a travel rewards credit card that offers the following features:

• An attractive sign-on bonus – Many travel rewards credit cards now offer fantastic sign-on bonuses that lure customers to their card. Many sign-on bonuses include free companion flights or a large number of bonus points or miles when you make your first purchase. Because so many travel rewards credit cards offer great sign-on bonuses it only makes sense to find a particularly attractive sign-on bonus.
• Look for extra perks – Many travel rewards credit card companies encourage consumers to use particular retailers by offering double or even triple rewards points. Other travel rewards credit card companies also offer bonus rewards points for shopping at certain retailer categories, such as home improvement or travel-related companies, for example.
• Terms and conditions – Aside from the obvious travel rewards points and perks, it is important to pay close attention to the card’s terms and conditions. Often times, credit card companies offer great travel rewards upfront, but catch the consumer on the back end by charging high fees or interest rates. There is no reason why you can’t find a travel rewards credit card that has both attractive rewards and competitive terms and conditions – it is just up to you to find the card that best works for you.
• Weigh the card’s benefits – if you are a big spender then a travel rewards credit card is probably right for you, as you are likely to earn travel rewards more quickly. If you pay off your card in full each month then a travel rewards credit card is also probably beneficial for you. However, if you don’t spend much or if you are often unable to pay your card in full each month then you may want to consider a standard credit card with a low, fixed interest rate.