What Types Of Credit Cards Are Available?

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There are credit cards today that suit every lifestyle. It takes time and knowledge, though, to find out which one will be best for your needs. So as always, be sure to read and understand carefully the terms and conditions of each type you are considering before choosing a credit card.

Credit Cards How they Work

Credit cards are offered on multiple levels depending on an applicant’s financial situation and credit score. They offer a range of interest rates, fees and rewards programs that are truly an attraction to an individual wanting to have the convenience of using credit instead of cash in various financial transactions from purchasing products and services to paying utility bills. 

The most common type of credit card is the standard credit card which can be availed of from banks and financial groups. This type is usually unsecured requiring no security deposit and with varying annual percentage rate (APR).

Low interest cards offer a low introductory APR but for only a certain period of time. It may also offer a low fixed-rate yearly percentage rate. This is ideal for people who need to make a large purchase as they can pay it for several months to a year with little or no interest. 


Cash back credit cards are also the trend these days. With this type, a user can earn cash rewards for making purchases. Frequent use of the card means more cash rewards. A cash back card lets users earn one percent of total purchases or sometimes higher depending on the issuer. This card is ideal for people who make it a point to pay off their balances every month. 

Credit cards with rewards programs enable consumers to earn incentives or points when making a purchase using the card. They are similar to cash back cards as they allow for the accumulation of points to earn rewards. Points are earned depending on the minimum amount specified by the issuer and cardholders can then redeem the points for rewards in the form of products or gift certificates. 

There are also cards that provide travel or hotel points when used regularly. Some of them are co-branded with specific hotels or airlines. Examples are Cathay Pacific Visa and Marriott Rewards Visa. By using this card during hotel stays or air travel, users get corresponding points. Other types offer broader rewards such as free or discounted travel via air or sea, free or discounted admission to theme parks, rental car use and free or discounted stays at major hotel chains. Annual fees may apply as these offers can be costly for credit card issuers. 

Gas rewards or rebate cards are ideal for frequent travelers. This type can be general which provides equal treatment for all gas companies or brand-specific which is exclusive only to one gas firm. The rebate gas card normally lets a user earn one percent cash back for general purchases and a higher percentage rebate for gas purchases or auto maintenance services. Loyal users of a single gas company should go for a brand-specific card. 

Jetsetters should avail of the credit card that gives them airline miles or frequent flier rewards. This type allows point accumulation which can be redeemed for plane tickets. Use of the card in specific establishments lets a user earn mile credits. 

Balance transfer credit cards are used when you to consolidate one credit card balance to another credit card. If you can benefit from a period of zero interest on your transferred balance for a set period of time, normally between 1 year and 18 months, you will often save a lot of money.

So there, it’s really up to you which card will be of great use in your life.  An important reminder is to always review the terms and conditions.  Before applying for a credit card online read up on identity theft.

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