The 9 amazing, powerful benefits of credit cards


A credit card offers great advantages and convenience! Have you ever REALLY compared credit cards with other methods of buying? They're one of the greatest money management tools ever invented. Look at this list of advantages that cardholders love:

1) convenience and speed, 2) ideal for internet and phone purchases, 3) your billing statement includes a permanent spending record with the place, time and amount of every transaction, 4) most cards include an interest-free "grace period" for making payments, 5) many issuers offer cash rebates or other rewards, perks & discounts, fraud protection, extended warranties, insurance on purchases, travel protections and other benefits, 6) good payment history builds your credit rating, 7) account payments are easier than ever with online checking-account-to-credit-card options offered by many issuers, 8) worldwide acceptance, and 9) credit cards can be a lifesaver in emergencies.

Try getting all that with cash, debit cards or check writing. Is it any wonder the credit card has revolutionized everyday commerce?

Best reasons to have a credit card? Among many, one stands out: safety. If you're far from home and calamity strikes, suppose you have minimal cash, your debit card has a low available balance, and "they" don't take checks? Credit card to the rescue. Thus, a cell phone and credit card are becoming standard travel gear. In a pinch, your credit card may be the only way to reserve a rental car or hotel room.

What are the most popular credit cards?

Budget-minded consumers like no-annual-fee credit cards; many of these offer cash rebates or other rewards. Numerous cards in the categories that follow have no annual fee.

There are credit cards for bad credit or limited credit, plus secured credit cards. Some of these are "guaranteed credit cards," issued regardless of past credit or with no credit check. They may have a setup charge plus an annual fee and not offer rewards, but with bad credit credit cards you can start rebuilding your credit – and enjoy other benefits as well.

Motorists like gasoline credit cards (also known as gas rebate cards, gasoline cards or simply gas cards) which offer gasoline rebates and other goodies. Gas credit cards will likely become more prevalent as drivers look for ways to save on gas. Many have no annual fee.

Student credit cards (also known as student rewards cards) offer choices and rewards tailored to students' needs and lifestyles. Many have no annual fee.



Business credit cards (or "business rewards credit cards") demonstrate professionalism and stability for a company. If you're a business manager, consider a business credit card to build your firm's credit and expand its horizons. Many have no annual fee.

With rewards or cash back credit cards (or "cash rebate credit cards"), you get cash rebates, points, air miles or goodies. When you think of all the things you pay for with a credit card, your earned-interest and card rewards can really add up. Many have no annual fee.

Is air travel your lifestyle? Look into frequent flyer cards. Many have no annual fee.

Low interest credit cards, featuring a low or zero introductory interest rate, are obviously popular -- make sure you read the details and understand how long the introductory rate lasts.



How many credit cards should a person have? Most credit experts say two or three (a few go as high as five). "Major" credit cards with the logo of Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express have the widest usability.

Be prudent:

When you apply for creidt cards, read the fine print; understand the fees & schedules.

Don't be late or skip a payment, as this causes fees and penalties -- and hurts your credit score.

The biggest caution of all: protect your card and account number from theft (even though most cards offer zero liability for unauthorized charges). Write down your card issuer's toll-free number in a safe place. Immediately report a lost or stolen card.

Unsure where to start?

Here you can view top credit card offers in popular card categories and find the best credit card deals for you. Online credit card applications make it easy to apply, and offer a quick response.

Do your own credit card comparison and pick what's right for your situation. Even if you have financial blemishes, there are still crdit cards for bad credit.

The advantages and benefits of credt crads are undeniable. It's hard to say which are the best credit card offers -- numerous incentives are offered by credit card companies and there's a card tailored to every lifestyle. Use your card wisely and prudently. Good luck and good living!

Disclaimer: All financial decisions should be weighed according to one's individual circumstances. The content of this article reflects the opinions of the writer, and should not be construed as "financial advice."

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