Types of Credit Cards
Types of Credit Cards
There are five major types of credit cards available to American consumers, some which can be made available to people regardless of credit. A credit card, when used wisely, is a great way for people to make purchases and pay them off over time. It is important to remember that the credit limit on a card, which could range from $200 to $25,000, is not a gift. To keep your card and a good credit rating, it is essential to pay the bills on time. To save money on interest, making more than the minimum monthly payment is always a good idea.
- Visa is a major credit card issuer worldwide. There are cards available through companies, such as Citibank and First Premier, and people of all credit types can normally get a card.
- MasterCard is slightly less accepted than Visa outside the United States, but still is a good all-around credit card bet. People with good credit can receive cards through lenders, such as Citibank, while people with credit problems are best served by applying through companies like First Premier and Orchard Bank.
- American Express used to offer only charge cards, which had to be paid in full each month. Now they offer a number of credit cards to people with excellent credit scores, and allow these accounts to have the capability to be paid back over time. American Express is especially noted for its travel rewards programs, making their credit cards a good bet for people who want to earn special privileges while charging purchases.
- Discover is not accepted everywhere in the United States and beyond, but is a credit card available for people with good to excellent credit. They also are particularly known for offering generous starting credit lines to students through their college credit card program.
- Most retailers, whether a department store or a gas station, offers credit cards. These products can only be used at that store, and many times offer special discounts and bonuses to cardholders. Department and specialty clothing stores also tend to sometimes offer coupons just for applying for a credit card account, even if your application is ultimately denied. Retail credit cards also tend to have “instant credit,” where you can apply in the store and if approved start using the new account right away.
- Carrying a credit card is a lot safer and more convenient than cash. It also enables you to make purchases on the Internet, pay for gas at the pump, and reserve airline tickets and hotel rooms. In addition, it is essential to have an actual credit card to rent a car or other vehicle. Some banks also require a credit card as a second form of identification when cashing a check.
- Immediately report a lost or stolen credit card to ensure that you are not held liable for any unauthorized purchases. Remember that you must pay a minimum payment each month on your credit card to keep it open. If you constantly max out your cards or pay late, your card could be canceled. In addition, it is bad for a credit rating to not pay cards on time or place them over the limit.





Etiquette for Leadership Leisure, LLC
Our Blog
Questions about repairing your credit? Want to improve your score LEGALLY and PERMANTENTLY?
TaxesAndMoney.com