Credit Cards Guide

For easy to understand guidance on the different types of credit card and other issues, have a look at our product guides

0% Balance transfers

Some lenders offer credit cards with a 0% balance transfer fee and an interest-free introductory period

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0% Purchases

A 0% purchases offer allows for interest-free purchasing for a set period which is often up to 12 months

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Cashback Credit Cards

A cashback card will literally pay you for spending money. It sounds great doesn't it? Well, essentially, it is.

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Choosing a card

Getting a card from your bank is the easiest option and it is tempting to just go for it

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Coping with bad credit

If you are deemed by credit card issuers as a bad risk and are struggling to get a credit card then your credit rating

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Credit card jargon explained

If you have a debt on a credit card you can often save money by shopping around for a card with a lower interest rate

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Credit card pitfalls

It was touched on in the previous section that you are responsible for your own spending, and furthermore

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How to apply for a credit card

It is not too tricky to apply for a credit card. However, it is definitely worth being patient, making sure that the offer

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Low standard interest rate

If you are not interested in the hassle of chasing offers and constantly switching to ensure that you are benefiting from the very best deal

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Prepaid credit cards

A prepaid credit card is similar in principle to a pay-as-you go phone. It allows you to load your card with cash

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Reward and loyalty schemes

A card with this type of scheme is attractive for the same reasons as a cashback card, spending money equals rewards

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Student credit cards

Student credit cards are offered because standard credit cards are only available to those with a stable income

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Supermarket credit cards

Credit cards that are offered by supermarkets such as Asda, Tesco, Marks and Spencer and Sainsbury's

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Using a credit card

It is mentioned in the first two sub sections of this guide that credit cards are a tool of convenience and no apologies

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Using your credit card abroad

If, for whatever reason, you frequently use your credit card overseas then a badly chosen card could lead to you constantly shelling out

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What are credit cards?

The first credit card in the UK was launched in 1966 by Barclaycard. Initially credit cards worked the same way as charge cards

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What is a credit report?

Information on your credit report is used by lenders to determine whether or not they would like to grant you credit

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Speak to an adviser

Our trained expert advisers have access to the UK’s leading lenders and using their knowledge and skills will place you with the most suitable leader and product for your needs.

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