Saturday, October 11, 2008

0 APR Credit Cards

With 0 APR credit cards, cardholders accrue no monthly interest charges for any purchases they make for the duration of the card's introductory and promotional period. This introductory period typically lasts for around twelve months, but can last anywhere from six to over fifteen months.

0 APR credit cards are one of the favorite financial instruments of many consumers. Over the years, credit cards with 12 month or more 0 APR terms have served many well, netting the users substantial balance transfer arbitrage profit in the way of high yield bank interest income, and cushioning them during difficult financial times by providing a way to get quick interest free loans.

During tough economic times these credit cards may be able to help you bridge temporary budget shortfalls, saving you from having to turn to high interest, high risk alternatives like payday loans. Be sure to read the application in its entirety. It is often in the credit card provider's best interest if you skim over and miss things. That's why they call it "the fine print."

All providers have their own application form, and they are almost always for the exact kind of card you are applying for with that provider. There is basic information that you will be expected to provide. This includes your name, contact information, social security number, address, and date of birth. Many 0 APR credit card offers also require more in depth information including job status, salary, driver's license, length of time at your current address, whether you own the home you live in, and more. Some questions will refer more to the card itself such as what persons are authorized to use the card. Credit card offers don't typically ask you to list your bank account number or balance.

Each month's minimum payment, typically quite small, must be paid in a timely and regular manner to avoid any unintended late payment fees or penalties. During the promotional period, cardholders can continue to make free 0 APR purchases up to the maximum credit limit available on the card in question. However, as always, credit card users need to be responsible for their credit card usage.