Apply Online For Credit Card
From LoveToKnow Online
It's never been easier to apply online for credit cards. Make sure you're a safe and informed consumer when signing up for a new card.
Credit Card Companies Online
Sometimes it seems like credit card offers from the major credit card companies are everywhere you look online.
Some stores also have their own branded credit cards, like the Best Buy card. Some can only be used in-store, while others are MasterCard or Visa affiliates that can be used anywhere. One of the common advantages of store-specific credit cards is special financing offers for large purchases. You can find these store credit cards by searching for the websites of the gas stations, retailers and grocery stores you most frequently visit.
When you apply online for credit cards, read the terms and conditions of each offer carefully, especially in regards to finance charges. What is the card's interest rate? If they're offering 0% APR on balance transfers or some other promotional interest rate, how long does that rate last? Don't get an unpleasant surprise in your first bill. Just because it's so easy to sign up for a credit card online, doesn't mean you have to. Pass on any unsatisfactory offers.
Apply Online For Credit Cards Safely
Identity theft is a constant concern when you're submitting personal data online. Online security is even more important when you apply online for credit cards. If an account password is compromised, you can simply change the password. If the information you input into an online credit card application fell in the wrong hands, someone could easily request a credit card in your name at a different address. Only apply at sites using SSL technology. You can tell that a site is secure when the lock icon on your browser is closed and the usual "http" at the beginning of a website address is "https." Also be wary of credit card application offers that come in spam emails. They may be directing you to look-alike sites to apply, so they can gather your personal data. It's best to visit the credit card company websites directly when applying.
Credit Card Bonuses
With reward programs vying for your attention, it's hard to find a credit card that doesn't offer some sort of bonus for running up your monthly bill. What extras are you looking for in a credit card? Do you want to earn frequent flier miles, do you like the idea of earning points toward gift certificates and prizes, or would you prefer to simply receive a refund of a percentage of your purchases in cash? In addition to ongoing rewards programs, some cards offer a one-time bonus for new card users. This is especially true of cards that are linked to specific retailers where you might receive 10% off your first purchase or a similar incentive to apply for their card.
Don't be blinded by the promise of free stuff, though, when applying online for credit cards. If you pay your bill in full each month, then the bonuses will be just that, a nice bonus. If you choose a card with an exorbitant interest rate because you like the rewards it offers, but you carry a balance, you may be spending $100 to earn a $20 gift certificate to your favorite restaurant. Also watch out for yearly fees. It may be worth it if you earn a free flight after paying a $20 fee, but if all you gain is a $10 gas station gift card, then it wasn't. It depends greatly on your yearly credit card usage and the structure of the rewards program.
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This page has been accessed 940 times. This page was last modified 01:43, 29 September 2009.
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