Student Credit Cards

In today’s world, having a credit card is a luxury.  Credit cards are a great convenience, meaning that you don’t need to worry about cash when making a purchase.  Although some credit cards have strict requirements, there are a lot of manufacturers that are giving both high school and college students the chance to get their own credit cards.  Student credit cards can be used the same way as a traditional credit card, although they do come with certain restrictions and limitations that other credit cards don’t normally have.

A lot of companies and banks that offer student credit cards will normally need a co-signer as a form of insurance or collateral.  This person will sign on the loan with the student, and will be the person the company falls back on if the student is unable to pay the bill.  Normally a parent or guardian, the co-signer is considered to be back up and a peace of mind for the issuer of the student credit card, as they can always count on the co-signer with good credit to pay if the student can’t.

Normally, the APR or interest rate is higher with student credit cards, which helps to minimize the risk for the company.  The spending limit is also different with these credit cards, as most are between 250 - 800 dollars.  The reason for this, is because most students have established any credit, and therefore won’t have a great credit rating.  Although the spending limit is obviously lower with these cards than other credit cards, they will still help students establish credit.

Students who plan to make a large purchase, can greatly benefit from using student credit cards.  To make large purchases, you’ll need good credit - which is where a student credit card can really help out.  You can use these credit cards as a stepping stone to building credit, and establishing a good credit rating.  If you can get your credit rating high with your credit card, you’ll then be able to be approved for much higher loans in the future.

Student credit cards can also help students gain a sense of responsibility.  The card works just like any other credit card, although the spending limit is much lower.  Once the student has mastered usage of the card, he or she can manage money much better later on in life.  These cards are great for students to have, and can teach them money skills that will last a lifetime. 

Just like traditional credit cards, students should also know that student credits cards can be dangerous.  Although they are great to have, there are pitfalls such as overspending.  If students spend more money than they having coming in, they will be unable to pay their credit card bill, which will then affect their credit.  If the company goes after the co-signer to pay the bill, it could also affect their credit as well.  Therefore, students should always have a budget in mind before they start using their credit cards.

All in all, student credit cards are great to have.  For high school students or college students, these credit cards are a means of freedom, and a way to teach responsibility.  They can come in handy during emergencies, which is reason enough to invest in them.  If your son or daughter is in school right now, you should look into student credit cards.  They can help your child to establish credit - which will take them farther wherever they go in life.

The Air Mile Credit Card

Air mile credit cards give you points or miles with every purchase you make, which you can redeem for traveling related expenses.  In most cases, you can use your points or miles to get a free airline ticket to travel to a destination of your choice.  Frequent flyers can use those very miles or points to redeem your reward faster.

There are a lot of companies out there that offer air mile cards.  You can choose to get one online, through a bank, or even a credit card company.  Each one is unique, and offers it’s own unique set of features.  Before you select your card, you should always look at different companies and compare them as well.  Normally, you will get a point or mile for every dollar you spend.  You’ll also want to look at blackout dates as well, as many companies have decided to drop them and their expiration dates completely.

You will also want to find out what type of purchases you make with your card give you reward miles.  Some purchases that you make may not be included in your reward incentives, which is why you’ll want to find out what purchases are and aren’t included.  The bigger purchase items, such as televisions and furniture may have more miles included, which is why you’ll want to inquire.

Another area of importance is the interest rate.  You should look deeper into the air mile credit card that you are interested in and find out how much the interest rates are and if there are any annual fees to using the card.  Although your rewards may sound great, you don’t want to pay too much in fees or an annual rate just to reap the benefits.

Even though they have been around for many years, air mile credit cards are very popular for those like to travel.  These cards can also help you with rental cars and hotel expenses as well, as long as you use the points you have accumulated by using your card.  The get the most out of an air mile credit card, you should use your card on a frequent basis.  You can really rack up the points if you purchase everything with your credit card - instead of using cash.

Air mile credit cards are great to have, as long as you don’t end up paying an arm and a leg in fees, and the annual rate isn’t that high.  If you check into what each manufacturer offers, you can normally get a great deal.  Also, make sure that find out what other rewards are included with the air mile credit card you get as well - as this can help you to make your decision when you finally decide to get the card.

Small Business Credit Cards

In today’s economy, small businesses play an important role.  These days, it is easier than it ever has been to start a new small business.  There are all kinds of new businesses popping up all over the United States, from department stores to gas stations.  With new businesses on the rise, the owners should be looking into small business credit cards - for numerous reasons.

The best reason to get a small business credit card is for separating your personal finances from any business related finances.  Once you have a small business credit card, you can start making all of your purchases via Internet, phone, or in person.  Business credit cards are accepted virtually everywhere, which is great for those who need equipment or supplies in a hurry.

If you own a small business, you’ve probably experimented with using your personal cash for company purposes.  This can get ugly in a hurry, which is why you should invest in a credit card for your small business.  You can make purchases without having to worry about cash, then pay it back later.  You won’t need to keep track of everything either - as you statement will be mailed to you at the end of the month, letting you know exactly how much you spent.

A small business credit card is also a great way to establish some credibility with your business as well.  When you pay with your credit card, it looks a lot more professional than using cash to make your purchases.  It will gain the respect of financial companies, and help your business build some credit as well.  After you have had a credit card in good standing for a few months, you’ll be able to apply for a small business loan and get the best rates - along with the higher amounts.

Even though your business may not have a 6 figure income or budget, small business credit cards can still help your business grow and prosper.  Credit cards are always great to have, simply for the fact that you never know when you need money.  Your office equipment may crash and need replacing, or another emergency may come up.  If you don’t have a credit card for your business, the financing alone could shatter your daily operations.

Small business credit cards will also give you plenty of rewards as well.  Most cards will give you cash aback and certain rewards on just about anything you purchase.  From gas to equipment, you can get rewards simply for using your credit card.  You can increase your profit margin as well, which is always a great thing.  If you have other workers who are authorized to use your credit card, you’ll get more rewards - and much faster as well.  This is also easier on your business, as your workers will be able to get what they need, when they need it.

All in all, small business credit cards are always great to have around.  They will provide your business with rewards and convenience, eliminating the need to use cash with each purchase you make.  These cards will also protect the future of your business, and allow it to grow.  If you own a small business, you shouldn’t hesitate to look into these credit cards.  Once you have found the best credit card for your company, you shouldn’t hesitate to apply.  Credit cards are always great to have around - even if your business is just getting started.  Before you know it, your small business credit cards will more than pay for themselves.

The Cost Of Credit Cards

Although some choose to rush into getting a credit card, they normally do so without being aware of the costs.  A lot of credit cards out there come with hidden costs and charges, and you should always be aware of this before you apply.  In most cases, these fees and charges won’t get noticed by the user until it is too late.

Credit card holders who aren’t aware of any hidden costs could easily end up paying possibly thousands of dollars at the end of the year - and not even realize it.  If you have a reward credit card, your rewards could easily be destroyed by these hidden costs.  Although some credit card users may realize it, there are many out there who aren’t aware of these costs at all.

The first factor for hidden costs is found in the grace period.  The grace period is the extra time you have to pay your bill without having extra fees added to your bill.  Even though this can be great for paying your bill, it can quickly lead to a pitfall if you let it.  To avoid any type of costs or hidden fees, you should pay your bill as soon as it arrives.  This way, you won’t have to worry about your grace period or the interest that can accrue from letting your bill get later and later.

The late fee is another factor with credit cards that is often overlooked by credit card users.  Late fees are common with credit cards, although their potential for costs is often overlooked.  Some people choose to pay it and be done with it, unaware of the fact that these costs can indeed add up in no time at all.  To be on the safe side, you should always know what the late charges are and how fast they can add up.

The easiest way to avoid any type of hidden fees or costs is to pay your bill on time - as soon as you receive your bill.  You should also pay more than the minimum, as this helps to pay your bill off faster and ensure that you pay the bill and not just the interest.  Paying your bill late is never a good thing, as it can easily destroy your credit report.  If you continue to make late payments, your company or bank can increase your interest rates.

No matter what you do, you should always pay your credit card bill on time.  Hidden fees and costs are out there - it’s up to you to avoid them.  Credit card companies and banks won’t tell you what the hidden fees are, unless you ask them.  To protect yourself and your credit - you should always be aware of the costs - and how to prevent them from happening to you.

Vacation And Credit Cards

Each and every year, many of us go on vacations.  Vacations are a great way to relax, and get away from the everyday pressure of life.  Over half of all American families take their vacation between April and September, meaning that they spend a lot of money on travel.  Whether it’s international or domestic travel, you can spend a fortune before you actually realize it.

As we all know, traveling with cash or checks isn’t always a wise decision.  Renting cars, flying in airplanes, or checking into hotels is a much easier task if you have a credit card.  Even though you may decide to use your credit cards for big purchases only, you’ll find that the traveling experience will be a much smoother process. 

Unlike cash or checks, credit cards make handling your documents and receipts much easier.  If you purchase something, records from that purchase will be made with your credit card manufacturer, which you can always fall back on if something happens.  Things can go wrong without notice, so you’ll always want a backup plan or something to have as proof in the event of a disaster.  With a credit card, all you need to do is look back at your statement and you’ll find everything that you purchased in one easy to find location.

Credit cards are also much easier to handle and keep track of than cash.  If you decide to go to a theme park or a resort, you’ll find that cash can be a bit bulky to handle.  Carrying a large amount of cash can be hard to keep track of, even though it isn’t recommended.  Credit cards use up less space, and you can keep them in your pocket.  When you need to pay for something, you don’t need to count through your cash, simply hand over your credit card and sign your receipt.

If you don’t have any credit cards, you can always get them for vacation purposes only.  There are many benefits to having credit cards, besides the fact of them being easier to keep track of.  There are many different credit cards out there to choose from, including those that will give you cash back or rewards when you make a purchase.  Cash back is normally a small percentage of what you spend, and is given to you at the end of the month.

Some credit cards will give you reward points for every dollar you spend, which can be redeemed with several merchants offering a variety of products.  Although cash back is always a great thing, many people find reward cards to be just as good.  You can enjoy your vacation, buy just about anything you want, and know that the money you spend will help you to buy other things that you may need when your vacation is over.  Actually, can you think of this as having your cake and eating it to.

All in all, credit cards can make your vacation easier than ever before.  You can earn rewards and cash back with purchases you make using your card.  Although you may think cash is the preferred way to go, there are several merchants who actually prefer credit cards.  They are more professional, and easier for you to handle than cash or checks.  They are easy to obtain as well, providing you have good credit.  If you don’t have a credit card, you should look into getting one before you take your next vacation.  All you need to do is look for your favorite company online and apply through their website - you’ll normally receive a response in a matter of minutes.

Credit Cards For High School Students

Students in high school that are looking to start building their credit early can get high school student credit cards.  These credits cards can help teach high school students responsibility, and how to manage their credit at an early age.  These types of credit cards are issued to high school students, with a parent or guardian co-signing with the student.  Students who have these credit cards also have a sense of responsibility as well.

Before applying for a high school student credit card, both students and co-signers should always look at their available options.  There are a lot of banks and credit card companies to choose from, which makes it in your best interest to look around.  Some cards will come with high APR and a high annual fee, while some are more reasonable.  With high school students not having any credit, some banks and companies will try to charge unreasonable rates - which is reason enough to do your research and know the best deal.

Co-signers can normally help students to make the best decision.  The co-signer will be going on the application with the student, and will be the individual that the bank or company will come to when the student is unable to pay the bill.  Parents and co-signers will know the best deals for credit cards, which is students should always ask them for help when picking out the ideal credit card.

For some students, prepaid credit cards can be an ideal investment.  These cards hold absolutely no risk for students, while they help to teach financial management as well.  With these high school student credit cards, the prepaid amount you have put on the card is your spending limit.  To ensure that the application for is filled out correctly, students should always have a parent or guardian assist them with filling the information out.

When a student gets their credit card, they should be instructed on how to properly use the credit card.  Although some students will be tempted to run up their high school student credit card, they should save it for emergency situations.  At the end of the month, they should try to pay their whole bill, to avoid getting into debt.  If a student can pay the bill - it will also help boost their credit.

If you are interested in a high school student credit card, you can always apply for one online.  The applications are processed in a timely manner, normally giving you a response in a matter of minutes.  Although credit cards are great to have, prepaid credit cards are sometimes the way to go with students.  If you are unsure - make sure you look into all options available to you and compare what you find out.

Credit Cards Without A Bank Account

Having a credit card is a great thing indeed, although most are hard to obtain for those who have a less than perfect credit history.  The restrictions for getting most credit cards are so tough that those who have bad credit may find it nearly impossible to get a credit card, or they find themselves hit with extremely high APR rates, and find it hard to compete with the interest.

For those who have less than perfect credit or no bank account, there is hope.  There are credit cards known as no bank account cards, that can help those with bad credit.  These types of credit cards are quite easy to obtain, and they can actually help you to get your credit back and track and live the life you’ve always dreamed of.

Credit cards of this type are pre-loaded, meaning that the credit limit you have it what you load onto the card, by pre payment.  If you want to control your spending and know how much you have, this credit card is what you need.  They are also great for those who want to learn about managing money as well.  Another great thing about these cards is the fact that they will give you power and convenience of a credit card - yet they will allow you to live within the means of your income as well.

Before you rush and get one of these credit cards, you should first look around and find the best deal possible.  Most no bank account credit cards offer you same rewards and incentives of traditional credit cards, along with online access to your account.  The best cards are accepted across the world, and offer you ATM access for instant cash.  If a card doesn’t offer you these types of features, you should pass it by and look for one that does.

Other things to look for with no bank account credit cards include low APR rates, no annual fees, and excellent customer support.  Customer support is very important with these types of credit cards, as you don’t want a card that doesn’t offer you great customer support.  If you encounter a problem, you want a company that is going to be there when it matters the most.

If you take your time and research no bank account credit cards, you’ll find one that you can’t refuse.  There are many to choose from, especially if you look online.  You should always compare features and rates, and look for companies that offer you cards with excellent features and low rates.  This way, you can get everything you love from traditional credit cards - without having to worry about your credit or needing to have a bank account.

How to Get A Higher Limit On Your Credit Card

Nearly everyone who has a credit card always has the goal of a higher line of credit.  A higher credit card limit will enable you to make much higher purchases, normally purchases that you are unable to get with your current line of credit.  There are ways that you can get a higher credit limit.  Below, are some tips that will help you raise the limit of your credit.

The most important thing to do when improving your credit limit is to improve your overall level of credit worthiness.  This tells banks and lenders that you can be trusted with credit, and that you are little to no risk for them.  When lenders and banks look at your credit report, this is the first thing that they look for.

You can attract a lot of positive attention with a credit card company or bank with your finance purchases.  You should pay them every once in a while, although you shouldn’t go out of your way to make a habit of it.  Normally, this should be done as a last resort when all else fails to increase your overall chances of raising your line of credit.

Once you prove to a bank or credit card company that you can be trusted to borrow money, they may raise your line of credit.  You should be careful with this strategy however, as this could only apply to your bank or current credit card company.  Having a higher credit line may allow you to have more purchasing power, although it can also leave you with more fees and even an increase in your current interest and APR charges.

Another great way to increase your credit limit is to use your credit card every chance you get.  When you have a credit card, don’t use it just for emergency purposes.  If you save your credit card for emergency purposes only, you’ll rarely use it.  When this happens, your company will begin to wonder about your spending behavior and ability to pay it back, therefore they will start to think twice about giving you a higher line of credit.

When you send in your payment, always try to pay more than just the minimum amount.  If you can afford to, you should try to pay the whole outstanding amount.  Doing so shows credit card companies and banks that you are striving for better credit.  This way, you’ll show them that you deserve to have a higher line of credit. 

If you follow the above tips, you’ll get your credit limit higher in no time at all.  Once you get your limit raised, you should protect it at all costs.  If you continue to strive for perfection - you’ll get a higher line of credit than you ever thought possible.

Credit Cards With Cash Rebate

Credit cards with cash rebate incentives give you cash rewards each and every time you make a purchase with your credit card.  Although there are many types of reward credit cards out there, more and more companies are leaning towards cash back incentives, as most people prefer to receive cash back over any other type of reward.

For many, getting cash back is far preferred over air miles, items, or any other reward.  If you like to use your credit card often, then you’ll find that cash rebate credit cards will give you a lot of money in return.

Normally, these types of credit cards entail higher fees and APR.  You don’t want to carry a high balance on these cards at any time, as it normally ends up very costly.  If you can off your balance at the end of the month, then your APR won’t affect you.  Paying off your bill will also allow you to take full advantage of the cash rebate reward.

The percentage of cash back will vary, although most normally have 1%, with 5% being applied with certain purchases.  For every purchase you make using your cash rebate credit card, you’ll get a small amount of cash back.  Using your credit card on a frequent basis will give you a lot of cash back at the end of the year.

If you make big purchases, you can get a lot of cash back by using your credit card, although some may have a limit on just how much of a rebate you get back.  If you plan to purchase large items such as furniture, you should check into your cash rebate credit card and find out what the rebate is on these types of purchases.  The better rebate cards will normally send a lot of rebate cash your way just for purchasing some of the larger items.

Before you get a cash rebate credit card, you should always find out how much of a reward you will be getting with each purchase, and what the limit may be.  Once you have reached the limit, some banks will either send you a check, deposit the reward into your bank account, or simply add the reward to your credit card.  All three are wise options, although most prefer to have the money added to their bank account - so it can help draw some interest.

If you research the rebate card and find out what other features are included, you’ll normally come out a winner.  Make sure you inquire about the credit limit, fees, and other things that you feel you should find out.  Once you have researched and found out what you need to know - you can get a cash rebate credit card and begin living life knowing you will be getting cash back for just about anything you purchase.

Credit Card Debt

In the world of credit cards, credit debt is all too common.  Debt from credit cards can be very stressful, and lead to a very crippling situation.  No one is immune to credit card debt, as even students can experience debt with their credit cards as well.  With people using their credit cards more these days, more and more people continue to take the plunge into debt.  Debt is never good, as it leads to bankruptcy and the destruction of your credit report.

Even though getting in credit card debt is simple to do, getting out of it is something that takes a lot of work.  Even if you go to an agency or company that specializes in helping people out of debt, it won’t happen overnight.  To get out of debt, it will take you quite a bit of time and effort as you get the debt under control and begin the long process of rebuilding your credit.

To properly defend yourself from credit card debt, you’ll need to know quite a bit about credit, managing your money, and finances in general.  Normally, you can stay out of debt by creating an ideal budget and saving money whenever you can.  If you stick to this plan and avoid steering away from it, you’ll normally have no problems staying out of debt.

If you have other credit cards that you don’t use, such as store credit cards that are known for high interest rates, you should dispose of them.  If you have a lot of open accounts, you should look into debt consolidation, which will combine all of your debts into one payment so you can get them out of the way quicker.  By using debt consolidation services, you will only have one bill to pay.

When you receive your credit card bill, you should always strive to pay more than just the minimum.  If you only pay the minimum amount, you could very well end up being in debt the rest of your life - as you could be paying nothing but the interest.  Every month, you should strive to pay the minimum amount and then some.  Paying more than the minimum amount will also help to pay offer your credit card bill faster as well.

No matter how much credit card debt you are in, you can always find debt management services and agencies that will help you fight back.  Credit card debt is very common these days, something many of us have experienced.  Although there are ways out of credit card debt, the best way to get out of it is to avoid it all together.  If you pay your bills on time and never miss a payment - you’ll always live a debt free lifestyle.