What You Should Do Before Applying For An Australian Credit Card

By Author: John Matthew
Total Articles: 428
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Australia has enjoyed a fruitful economy for the past several years. No wonder when it comes to Australian credit cards, they are literally everywhere. You can see the offers while you surf the Internet, find it in your mailbox and almost all shopping places.

But before you pick your next Australian credit card, it would be your best interest that you do a little homework. You can literally save bucket loads of money just by using the right card for your needs.

To start off, here are some tips that you should know before getting an Australian credit card.

Compare annual percentage rage, also known as APR. Basically this is the rate you are going to pay when you are exceeding the grace period. The higher the annual percentage rate, the more money you have to pay for your credit card charges. Annual percentage greatly varies from bank to bank. You might also check the rates for balance transfers and cash advance rates, you might need them just in case.

Compare grace periods of Australian credit cards. If you have used your credit card to make some purchases, you are not legible to pay finance charges ...
... if you have paid back the amount in full during the grace period. Usually, they start the grace period after presenting you the billing date. Naturally, you want to get that card with a longer grace period. This will give you sufficient amount of time to have the money for you to pay off your current balance. If you have a tight schedule, having longer grace periods will definitely help to fit the debt paying activities to your schedule

Compare also credit limits. Australian credit cards have different credit limits. A credit limit is the allowable amount you can borrow from the bank using that specific credit card. Credit limits also affect your budget or financial planning both short and long term projections. If you are new to the whole credit card business, it is advisable that you start with a low credit limit. It is wise that you develop first the right experience and discipline before opening your account to higher credit limits. It may be true that higher credit limits may give you more purchasing power, but to an undisciplined person, it will also give you the opportunity to dig yourself in a deep credit hole.

One more thing, it is best that you do your business with reputable and well-established Australian financial institution to avoid possible complications. These established companies have already the experience in their belt to iron out common consumer problems.

For more information regarding Australian credit card, credit card applications and credit card comparison please visit: www.lowerbills.com.au