Whether you want to spread the cost of your purchases, pay off debt or earn rewards when you spend, the right credit card can save you money.
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0% purchase cards offer lengthy introductory interest-free periods, which means that you can charge purchases to your credit card and then pay off the cost in monthly payments. As long as you pay off the full balance before the end of the interest-free period, you won't pay any interest on your purchases.
Balance transfer cards are useful if you want to pay off existing debt – especially as many of these credit cards come with lengthy interest-free periods. You can transfer the balance from one or more credit cards onto a balance transfer credit card, often in return for a small fee. Once the balance is on the new card, you can pay it off in monthly instalments.
Money transfer cards are similar to balance transfer cards. The only difference is that money transfer cards allow you to move money from your new card directly to your bank account. You can use the money you transfer to pay off your overdraft or loan, often over a long interest-free introductory period.
Credit building cards are aimed at individuals with no previous experience of borrowing or those with poor credit histories. These cards usually come with high interest rates and low credit limits. But if you use them responsibly and pay off the balance at the end of each month, they will help you improve your credit rating.
Many providers now offer different benefits and rewards to incentivise you to take out and use their credit cards. The rewards tend to vary from card to card, but some of the most common rewards offered include vouchers or in-store points and Air Miles. Some provide cashback every time you spend on the card.
These cards are aimed specifically at regular travellers. These are useful as they don't charge foreign transaction fees, so you can use them whenever you're travelling abroad. If you often find yourself in Europe or further afield, a travel credit card may be worth considering.
Discover how credit cards work and which credit card is best for you with our array of credit card guides.
Getting your first credit card is an important financial step, but knowing how to apply for a credit card can be tricky. This guide will steer you through the process and help you secure a useful resource in case of emergencies.
Find out moreAlways try to pay more than the minimum
Paying off more than the minimum amount on your credit card balance each month enables you to clear the balance more quickly and significantly reduces the total amount of interest you pay. Double win!
Pay your balance in full every month
In most cases, if you want to avoid being charged interest, always pay off the full balance of your credit card each month. This way you won't be charged interest on your spending, and any rewards or cashback you earn is an added bonus.
Use balance transfers to pay off debt
If you're paying interest on a balance that's built up on an existing credit card, it might be worth switching the debt to a 0% balance transfer card instead. Many have interest-free periods of 30 months or more. You can use this time to reduce the debt.
Never miss a payment
Missing payments is a cardinal sin when using a credit card. Not only will you be charged a fee, but it also leaves a mark on your credit file and means it is harder for you to borrow in the future. This is why it's important to make the minimum repayment every time it's due.
Don't make too many applications
If your application for a credit card has been rejected, don't apply for another one straight away. Making several applications in a short period of time can be interpreted as being desperate for credit. Wait at least six months till you apply again.
Avoid cash withdrawals
Withdrawing cash from your credit card is extremely expensive. The card provider charges a fee each time and charges daily interest that soon adds up. It also leaves a mark on your credit record that could affect future credit applications.
It is a record of your financial history, including details of when you have borrowed money and the repayments you have made. Here is what else it shows.
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Read MoreBelow you can find a list of our most popular credit cards:
Business credit cards
Credit cards for bad credit
Best credit card to build credit
Balance transfer credit cards
0% interest credit cards
Student credit cards
Comparing credit cards could help you save money or get more rewards from your spending. Our award-winning credit card comparison service makes sure you get our best deals for 0% periods and more. Our aim is to provide you with the most up-to-date information, as well as useful tools and calculators so to help you make life's most important decisions and take control of your money.
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Last updated: 7 June 2022