Online Credit Card Offers – Should You Apply Online?

admin — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 17:27:31 +0000

Online Credit Card Offers – Should You Apply Online? If you want a new credit card, you don’t have to send in an application through the postal system. Thanks to the Internet, you can now apply online for. Applying online will give you more options to choose from, and it’s fast and easy. Here are just a few of the benefits you’ll receive from applying for a card online.

A Wide Variety

You may get an offer or two for a card each week in your mailbox, but if you search online, you’ll find many more options to choose from. There are plenty of websites that specialize in credit cards. They are designed to help you find the best offer for your lifestyle.

Most of these sites divide card offers into a number of different categories. So if you’re on the hunt for a low interest card, you can click on that section and find various options. The same is true for rewards cards, balance transfer ones, and others – simply select the category that interests you and then sort through the options.

Security Features

Once you’ve found the right card, the next step is to fill out an online application. You’ll need to provide some personal information, just as you would be asked to do if you were filling out a paper application. You may have to include information about your income, job status, or housing situation.

When you fill out an online application, there is really no need to worry about security. Credit card companies are aware of the importance of offering secure applications, and work hard to provide you with the latest technology possible. To make sure a site is safe, check for a small padlock on the screen, or look for the words “SSL technology.” These are indicators that the applications linked to the bank’s website are secure, and that your information will not be seen by others.

Fast Response

When you send in an application through the mail, you may have to wait a few weeks to hear a response. When you apply online, however, you will receive your answer much faster. Some banks offer a feature known as instant approval, which lets you know within a minute whether or not you have been approved. Others take a little longer to respond, but overall the waiting time is much less compared to the mailing system.

In most cases, you’ll receive an email notification from the card company, which will let you know whether or not you have been approved. Once you have been approved, an actual card will be sent to you in the mail. In most cases, the card will arrive within a week. All you’ll need to do then is activate it and it will be ready to use.

These days, everyone is used to having things come as fast as possible, and card issuers are aware of this. The online application is designed to make your life easier. You simply fill it out and wait to receive approval. Once the card arrives in the mail, you’ll be ready to use it. And when you need another one, you’ll know where to go.

Tags: offers, online credit card

Balance Transfer Credit Card Offers – What You Need to Know

admin — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 07:50:36 +0000

Is a balance transfer credit card your ticket out of credit card debt? It can be. If you’re having trouble paying off a steep balance and the high interest that goes with it, these cards could be the right solution for you. But before filling out an application, take a few factors into consideration. Educate yourself on the transfer process, and you’ll get the most out of your credit card experience.

What Balance Transfer Credit Cards Are

These credit cards have a certain appeal that separates them from other forms of plastic. They offer applicants the chance to shift a balance from a high-interest card to a low-interest one. In fact, most of these cards come with an initial 0% interest period. This means you can make payments that are directly applied toward the balance. As you pay down the debt, you can save hundreds of dollars on interest expense.

How to Compare Balance Transfer Credit Cards

Many appear to be the same, but in reality they vary quite a bit. Check the following details as you sift through the options:

Length of introductory period – The initial period of no interest may be as short as three months, or as long as fifteen months. If you aim for at least 12 months of 0% interest, you’ll have ample time to pay off the balance.

What the 0% APR applies to – Some credit cards offer you 0% APR only on the transfer amount. This means that you will be charged a higher interest rate when you make a purchase. Moreover, all the payments you send in will first be applied to the balance, and then to the purchases. While you pay down the balance, the new purchases and their attached high interest rates will sit and accrue on your statements. Eventually, you could pay more in high interest than you planned on. To avoid this, look for a card that offers 0% APR on both balances and purchases. Or limit the use of your card until you pay off the transferred balance.

Check the fees – Most balance transfer credit cards charge an initial fee for bringing over the new balance. This is sometimes a certain percentage of amount transfered. Banks often include a cap, such as $50 or $75, on the transfer fee. The savings you receive on interest usually outweighs this expense.

Additional benefits – While they offer you a chance to pay off nagging debt, many come with other features as well. Some balance transfer credit cards include a rewards program. Others have a low interest rate that kicks in after the introductory period. Think long-term before you apply. Consider what benefits you’ll want after you are debt-free.

Using your Balance Transfer Card

These can be a solid solution if they are used properly. Think about creating a payment plan to get rid of the debt. Set aside money each month for card payments. If at all possible, pay off the balance before the introductory period runs out. As the balance dwindles, you’ll gain control of your finances. You’ll also begin to build a stronger credit history. When the balance is gone, you’ll be able to enjoy the card’s additional benefits.

Tags: balance, credit cards, offers, transfer

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Online Credit Card Offers – Should You Apply Online?

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