Jumat, 29 Februari 2008

WHAT SETS A STUDENT CREDIT CARD APART FROM OTHER CREDIT CARDS

Today, most parents contend that it is okay to let college students obtain their very own credit card. Not only because they want to let their kids manage their finances alone but also because having credit cards or a credit history for that matter is extremely important.

With the advent of credit cards, most people would always be looking into someone’s credit history before they can approve anything.

They even insist that without a credit history, people tend to become a total outcast in the society, someone who is not worthy to enjoy anything and everything without a credit history. That is why most college students would struggle just to get one.

But what makes the student credit card different from the other credit card? Why is it that it is highly classified as “student credit card,” and not just any credit cards for that matter?

Basically, student credit cards do not make such big difference as compared to the other types of credit cards. However, because it is a student credit card, the benefits stated therein are completely focused on providing the student’s their basic needs.

Moreover, student credit cards are entitled to lower interest rates especially for students who have good grades. They can negotiate their interest rates for a lower rate provided that they pay their balance dues on time and that they maintain good grades.

On the other hand, student’s credit cards are actually secured credit cards. But the difference that sets the students credit card apart from the other credit cards is that their parents can set the credit limit.

Also, parents can let their child’s credit card to hook up with them so that they can keep track on their child’s credit transactions.

Another thing that sets the student cards apart from the other credit cards is that the student credit cards are mainly focused on and quoted for students only considering the fact that they have limited credit history.

Normally, student credit cards have no annual fees and have credit limits that are only set to $500. And according to some surveys of financial institutions, the average student credit card annual percentage rate is 17.66% for purchases and 19.67% for cash advances.

So, even if student credit cards are different from the other credit cards because of its considerable interest rates, it is still a credit card. Thus, students must really be responsible in handling them; otherwise, they are bound to suffer bad credit history in the end.

Jumat, 15 Februari 2008

"The Card Apart"

Southwest Airlines, one of the biggest international airlines, goes hand-in-hand with Chase, a big credit card company, to produce: Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Visa Card.

Southwest Airlines is known for their Rapid Rewards. Unlike most airline companies, count the roundtrips made and not the miles of every trip. Only eight roundtrips are required to be able to avail of rewards. This concept was combined with their credit cards so that the people may enjoy their services more.

Chase Credit Cards operates under Bank One and First USA brands and offers cards that are flexible, trusted and superb customer service.

Southwest Airlines together with Chase, produced two types of credit cards: Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Visa Signature Card and Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Visa Business Card.

Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Visa Business Card:

This is the card recommended for small businesses. It is ideal, because it can separate the personal expenses from the expenses of the business. Every time this card is used, the user has a chance to win a roundtrip Award.

Reward Dollars may be earned in all purchases.

-two Reward Dollars may be earned by spending $1 on Southwest Airlines.
-one Reward Dollar may be earned by spending $1 on all other types of purchases.

This will also entitle the applicant to an internet account that may be used to maintain and organize the expenses of the business. With the online help, quarterly reviews may be seen and reports may be downloaded by the card holder.

This card also gives up to a $100,000 limit even for small businesses. Grace periods are offered for easier pay.

This card also boasts low annual fee. It only has an annual fee of $59 dollars and is relatively less than other companies that go from $60 - $100.

Rewards are easily earned, because a reward may already be cashed in when the expenses reach $19,200. That is pretty low, compared to the $25,000 minimum of other card companies.

Additional cards do not have a fee, but a minimum amount is needed for it to be availed.

Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Visa Signature Card:

The Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Visa Signature Card offers all the Visa Business Card offers and more.

It does not have a credit limit. Also, it does not have a limit when accumulating Award points by using the card.

It offers zero liability on unauthorized purchases. In addition to that, it has purchase security, travel and emergency assistance and other offers from Visa.

Additional Benefits:

Get four (4) bonus credit cards upon purchase.

No Fuss Credit Card Application

Today's consumers want the least possible hassle, processing time and related fees when they make credit card applications.

One question that immediately comes to mind is acceptance. Credit card applicants generally should not worry if they comply with all the requirements set by their card issuer. Some of the things that are checked include income ranges, age and current addresses. For potential owners who have moved, they must make sure that they indicate correct information on their previous place of residence, including when and how long they stayed at their former address.

Individuals who want no fuss credit card applications should expect to have their credit ratings given a thorough review. This review will be conducted by issuers to establish if the applicant poses any risk. Such a check will include the individual's ability to remain consistent with monthly rental payments or repayments and mortgage or loan profiles. An application with a history of financially troubles will have problems having their applications processed, as this issue will have an impact on their credit rating.

Credit card providers will also check details such as delayed payments on recent or previous cards, utility bills or loans, and the number of rejected applications, if any. Companies can also probe deeper to the extent that they check the electoral register to verify an applicant's addresses and even the county court to find any judgments against or records on the individual.

Credit card applicants should realize that low interest providers are more likely to impose a higher number of restrictions and possibly accept only individuals with perfect credit histories. In such cases, the more likely option is for an applicant to consider cards with higher rates.

Since borrowing entails charges, a credit card applicant should make an exhaustive review of all terms and conditions related to their application, preferably across different credit or charge cards. Among the key terms potential card owners must consider are the annual percentage rate, the free or grace period, transaction and annual fees, and adjusted and previous balances.

Some individuals on pre-approved status will have their credit card application mailed at home, reflecting an attempt by the issue to verify that they have the right applicant. Other options that have made credit card applications more convenient are telephone and internet-based processing. As a security measure, applicants should exercise extreme caution in providing their social security number and other personal information.