Home  »News  »Finance News

Are credit cards worth it?

06/08/2010

Are credit cards worth it?Credit cards have become a staple part of our lives over the last few years and now most of us would be lost without that plastic in our wallets and purses. There are also some good arguments for credit cards. In fact, lots of experts recommend that you should always use plastic to buy trips away.

Consumers are also benefitting from renewed competition in the credit card market, which has seen promotions offering interest-free periods to people who switch their balance transfer, according to research from Moneysupermarket.com.

Yet, even with some promotions in place, people are still missing out on the best deals because credit card interest rates are continuing to rise. In fact, the average rate is now 17.32 per cent.

A spokesperson for Moneyfacts.co.uk advised people to think carefully before getting a credit card.

"Despite there being a slight return to a competitive market, credit cards are still considered a high risk."

The spokesperson added: "The first thing to do is to check your credit rating. Many credit checks can be made online, with companies such as Credit Expert, which will give you a good idea of whether you are eligible for credit."

Although the card may offer a good rate, people still need to consider whether they can meet the monthly repayments in the long term, she suggested.

"It is important for card holders to check that they can keep up repayments on their card in the event of a rate increase, and to always try to make more than just the minimum monthly amount."

If you work in an industry that has been badly affected by the recent economic downturn, a credit card might not be the best idea.

"The risk of unemployment is still high for many and credit card debt is always the first out of all debts which a person will default on, therefore providers are still cautious as to who they lend to," she concluded.

Posted by Jez Walters ADNFCR-2295-ID-800016148-ADNFCR

Related Finance News

William Hill Sports Free Bet

William Hill Sports Free Bet

Issue of Macuser

Issue of Macuser

Help Protect Children from Abuse and Neglect

Help Protect Children from Abuse and Neglect

Win £250 to spend online at REPUBLIC
Win 7 Night summer holiday in for 2 people in Majorca
Win a trip to Las Vegas
All offers are subject to our standard terms & conditions