We explain why choosing a credit card with a low standard interest rate is so important
Standard interest rates relate to the typical APR a card provider charges on both balances and purchases. It is important to check the standard interest rate of a card before you sign up, especially for those that offer an introductory period of interest free credit as it is at this rate that you will be paying interest after the initial deal expires.
By choosing a card that offers a low standard APR on both balances and new purchases you can reduce the amount of interest you pay and help to manage and pay off the amount you owe. Credit cards with flexible standard interest rates are becoming more popular as they reward you for making more than just the minimum payment each month by lowering the standard interest rate the more you pay off.
If you pay the balance on your credit card off in full each month, the standard interest rate is not that important as you avoid paying interest at all. Instead you should choose a card that offers benefits such as air miles and cashback or gives donations to charity each time you use your card.
