How do credit cards work?
With credit cards you are borrowing money when you make purchases and then pay back what you owe, either in whole or monthly, until the balance has been repaid. Credit cards work by charging you interest on any balance on the card. Normally, there is a grace period where you are not charged interest. After this period you are charged interest, so the sooner you can pay off any outstanding balance in full, the better.
What is the purpose of a credit card?
Credit cards can be used for purchases that would be too expensive to buy in one go but are too small to take out a loan for (such as a package holiday). There are more choices available for credit cards now, so it is easier to find one to suit your requirements and circumstances. These include 0% balance transfer cards, 0% purchases, or interest-free cards, rewards credit cards, cash back credit cards, credit-builder cards and overseas credit cards.
Additionally, you get credit card purchase protection if you use your card to buy goods or services over £100 and up to £30,000 - for more information see "Am I protected when I spend using a credit card?"
What is a cash advance on credit cards?
A cash advance on a credit card allows you to borrow money from your credit card provider, much like a short term loan. Examples of cash advances include withdrawing money from cash machines (local and international), buying physical currency and electronic cash transfers using your credit card. Most credit card providers cap the amount you can get with a cash advance.
A fee for credit card cash advances will likely apply. In most cases, you will pay a higher interest from the day you make the cash advance transactions (even if you have a grace period for other transactions), and the advance will show on your credit report. You can find more information in our guide:Cash advance on credit cards - what you need to know.
How do I find the best credit card for me?
It is essential to do your research before applying for a credit card. You can use a comparison site to compare different available offers and ensure that your credit rating is up to scratch. Check your credit report before applying for a credit card; if it needs improving, read our 10 simple steps to increasing your credit score.
What do I need to know about credit cards?
Credit cards are a convenient lending method but can also be an easy way of getting into debt. Avoid maxing out your credit card, and aim to pay off the balance in full every month to avoid interest charges. Spending wisely on your card can help you manage your finances and potentially improve your credit rating. However, missing payments, carrying over large balances from one month to another, over-spending or using too many credit cards can cause debt to get out of control.
What else should I consider when choosing a credit card?
Always make sure that you can afford to make the repayments each month. Ask yourself why you are applying for a credit card and do you really need one. Credit cards can be a great way of building a positive credit history, but they can also be a slippery slope to credit score disaster if you don't use them responsibly.
How can I be accepted for a credit card?
There is no guarantee that you will be accepted when applying for credit. To improve your chances, check your credit score and ensure it doesn't hold any nasty surprises before applying. Always try to pay debts on time and don't miss payments especially if you are trying to improve your credit score.
Am I protected when I spend using a credit card?
Thanks to legislation called Section 75, when you purchase more than £100 (and up to £30,000) using your credit card, you are covered if the item is not delivered or defective, if the seller goes bust, or if the product is not as described. However, if you make the payment through a third-party payment processor (such as PayPal), your purchase is unlikely to be covered under Section 75 legislation. Additionally, certain items are not covered under Section 75, so always check with your credit card company, especially when considering buying an expensive item.