CREDIT CARD COMPARED 

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Credit cards are one of the most popular financial products in the world and most people will have one at some point in their lives. With this in mind the credit market is huge and it can be very overwhelming finding a good deal. However, Which Way to Pay offers you independent, impartial advice on a range of available credit cards. There are a variety of different types of credit cards that you can consider. To make sure you make the right choice when researching cards, we compare the most widely available credit cards, all offering different advantages and benefits. Whether you're looking to earn airmiles, make your money ethical or simply get a great transfer deal on your credit cards; Which Way to Pay gives you the facts in a simple and straight forward way. The table outlines the representative APR, Balance transfer rates, Purchase rates and other costs, rates and fees on a variety of credit cards. Get the right card for your needs and your finances.

Search Report: ALL  0% Purchases  0% Balance Transfers  Life Of Balance  Cashback

If you wish to speak to someone: Contact Us or Enquiry Line: +44 (0) 207 386 5300

CARD NAMEISSUER

ISSUER

Card issuer

REPRESENTATIVE APR

REPRESENTATIVE APR

A Representative APR is a financial service concept in which interest rates quoted through advertising media is required to take into account all charges associated with a product, in addition to the interest rate

BALANCE TRANSFER RATE

BALANCE TRANSFER RATE

A credit card balance transfer is the transfer of the balance (the money) in a credit card account to an account held at another credit card company

MONEY TRANSFER RATE

MONEY TRANSFER RATE

The time period over which you can transfer your balance at a special rate

PURCHASE RATE

PURCHASE RATE

A purchase rate is the interest rate charged on regular purchases put on a credit card. It differs from a cash advance rate in that it is lower because banks and issuers view regular purchases as less risky

PURCHASE PERIOD

PURCHASE PERIOD

Period of time in which there is a special offer on the purchase rate

CREDIT LIMIT

CREDIT LIMIT

The limit of credit offered to you by the credit card provider

CASHBACK

CASHBACK

Is cashback available on purchases

MORE INFO

Capital One Classic
Capital One Classic

Visa Card34.9%
Representative Example

Representative Example

34.94%0 months34.94%0 monthsAsk On ApplicationNoCapital One Classic
This credit card is ideal if you are attempting to rebuild your credit rating. It has the fun bonus of being able to pick your front of card design. With the low £1500 credit limit, it is easy to see why this card would suit someone working on their credit rating. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria


Advantages

Advantages

1. Low, easy-to-manage credit limit from £200
2. Choose your own credit card design
3. Register for email alerts to help you stay in control
4. Identity Theft Protection available
5. Online account management with paperless statements
6. Purchase protection insurance as standard
7. Free Equifax credit reports
8. Fast Online Application & Response


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. You must have some history of managing your credit even if you have had CCJs or defaults in the past.
2. You must be on the electoral roll.
3. High APR 34.9%
4. Balance transfer handling fee of 3%

Post Office Credit Card
Post Office Credit Card

mastercard16.9%
Representative Example

Representative Example

16.9% APR
Representative (variable)
16.9% APR Purchase rate (variable)
£1,200  Assumed credit limit
Credit is subject to status

0%14 Months0%3 MonthsAsk On ApplicationNoPost Office Credit Card
Get 0% on balance transfers for the first 14 months with the Post Office Credit Card With the card’s great 0% on balance transfer offer for the first 14 months, you could make saving. Extras are: Free purchase protection for up to 90 days for almost all of your purchases, which covers you if purchases are lost, damaged or stolen. There’s no annual fee for the Post Office Credit Card plus you can have up to three additional cardholders.The card is hassle-free with online account management DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

1. To qualify for their Platinum credit card, you must earn over £15,000 a year. A gross annual income of £8,000 a year may qualify you for their Classic card.
2. Credit checks will be carried out


Advantages

Advantages

 
1. 0% on purchases for the first 3 months 
2. No fees on purchases overseas 
3. No cash fee if you purchase Post Office Travel Money


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. Cash advance charges
2. Late payment fees
3. Over credit limit charges

Santander 123 Cashback Credit Card
Santander 123 Cashback Credit Card

mastercard22.8%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Not available

0%1 month0%1 month£1,200.003%Santander 123 Cashback Credit Card
With the new Santander 123 Cashback Credit Card, getting rewarded for the things you buy everyday is easy. Whenever you shop at the supermarket, spend in department stores, or fill up at a petrol station†, you'll earn a generous cashback reward, making the Santander 123 Cashback Credit Card the smart way to pay. An annual fee applies. Before you apply for a credit card it is important that you consider your financial circumstances carefully. Work out which credit card is best for you. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

Before starting your application please ensure the following apply:
 
1. You are at least 18 years of age;
2. You have had a permanent UK address for at least the last 3 years;
3. You do not have a history of bad credit (in other words, county court judgements or bankruptcy);
4. You have an income in excess of £7,500.
 
You will need the following information when filling in your application:
 
1. All the addresses you have lived at for the last 3 years (including postcodes);
2. Employers address and postcode;
3. Details of your yearly income and monthly outgoings.


Advantages

Advantages

1. 0% for 1 months from account opening on new purchases
2. 0% for 1 months from account opening on balance transfer
3. 56 days interest free period for Purchases
4. 1% cashback on your supermarket
5. 2% cashback at your favourite department stores
6. 3% cashback when you fill up at major petrol stations


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. A maximum spend of £300 on fuel purchases will be eligible for cashback each month (the period between your monthly statements). Once you have reached this maximum amount, any further fuel purchases that you make during that month will not qualify for cashback.
2. Purchases of financial services products (which include travellers' cheques, foreign currency, gift vouchers and insurance) made at a supermarket, department store or petrol station may not qualify for cashback.
3. You must have an income in excess of £7500
4. After one month 18.9% on new purchases and balance transfer

AA Balance Transfer Credit Card
AA Balance Transfer Credit Card

Visa Card17.9%
Representative Example

Representative Example

17.9% pa (variable) on card purchases Equivalent to: 17.9% APR representative (variable) Based on a credit limit of £1,200 Credit limit will vary based on your individual circumstances

2.9%Ask on application17.9%Ask on application£1,200.00NoAA Balance Transfer Credit Card
The AABalance transfer Card offers the longest balance transfer period and lowest balance transfer fee of 2.9% plus a rich rewards scheme.Earn 1 point for every £1 spent on fuel/motoring, and 1 point for every £2 spent on everything else. 2,000 points can be redeemed for £40 worth of AA products (ie. breakdown renewal) or £10 cashback. AA Members earn reward points twice as fast. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

You have to be 18 years old or over and a UK resident


Advantages

Advantages

1.0% for 16 months from the date your account is opened on balance transfers made in the first 60 days, with a fee of just 2.9%
2.Also comes with our generous Rewards scheme, so you earn reward points every time you spend
3.0% on all card spending for 3 months from the date your account is opened, whatever you buy
4. 0% for 16 months from the date your account is opened, on all money transfers made within just 60 days (4% fee).


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

Detailed information after application only

Barclaycard Business Credit Card
Barclaycard Business Credit Card

mastercard21.9%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Representative Example: If you spend £1,200 at an annual interest rate of 21.9% (variable) with a £32 annual Fee your Representative APR will be 21.9% (variable).

NoN/A0%3 MonthsAsk On ApplicationNoBarclaycard Business Credit Card
A Barclaycard business credit card gives you 0% interest on purchases for 3 months from date of account your opening. That’s on top of up to 56 days of interest-free credit when you pay off your balance in full and on time each month . When it comes to supporting your cashflow, it all adds up to a lot of extra breathing space. Before you apply for a credit card it is important that you consider your financial circumstances carefully. Work out which credit card is best for you. Please read the terms and conditions carefully. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

1. You, in the past 5 years, have not been declared bankrupt, been refused credit or have any county court judgments outstanding
2. You are not more than two months in arrears with any payments or you have been part of any repayment plan in the last 5 years
3. Your expected gross income in the next 12 months is more than £10,000


Advantages

Advantages

1. 0% interest on purchases for 3 months¹ gives you extra cashflow and maintains your spending power
2. 21.90% APR Representative (variable) Barclaycard business credit card is subject to application and status
3. Flexibility to carry your balance Option to carry your balance over from one month to the next
4. Up to 56 days of interest-free credit from the date of transaction when your balance is paid in full and on time – which gives your cashflow even more breathing space
5. 25% off training with Reed Learning
6. 15% of stationery with Ryman
7. Up to 55% off usual membership rates with The AA


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. £32 annual fee per Gold Card payable on opening the Account and on each anniversary of your Account opening.
2. £32 per annum for each additional Gold Card.

RBS Platinum Credit Card
RBS Platinum Credit Card

mastercard18.9%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Ask on application

0%26 Months0%6 Months£1,200.00NoRBS Platinum Credit Card
Royal Bank of Scotland Platinum Mastercard for those over 18 and earning over £10,000 a year. 0% on balance transfers for 26 months (2.65% fee, min £5). There is no annual fee. Before you apply for a credit card it is important that you consider your financial circumstances carefully. Work out which credit card is best for you. Make sure that you read the terms and conditions carefully so that you understand your financial obligations before you apply. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

You must be aged over 18 and earning at least £10,000 to apply.


Advantages

Advantages

0% on balance transfers for 26 months
0% on purchases for 6 months


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. 18.9% APR is fairly high
2. Only available to existing RBS customers
3. You must be aged over 18 and earning at least £10,000 to apply.

British Airways American Express Credit Card
British Airways American Express Credit Card

Amex Card50.1%
Representative Example

Representative Example

50.1% APR variable. Based on annual fee of £150 and assumed credit limit of £1200. Interest rate for purchases: 19.9% p.a. variable.

27.9%N/A19.9%N/AAsk On ApplicationNoBritish Airways American Express Credit Card
Transform your everyday spending into British Airways flights. The British Airways American Express® Credit Card gives new Cardmembers the opportunity to earn 3,000 bonus Avios points (when they spend £1,000 in the first 3 months). Or they can apply for the British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Card and earn 18,000 bonus Avios points (when they spend £3,000 in first 3 months). Offers expire on 29th February 2012. Please read the terms and conditions carefully. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

1. I am aged 18 or over
2. I have a current UK bank or building society account
3. I have a permanent UK home address
4. I have a household income of at least £30,000
5. I have no history of bad debt
6. And if self-employed, I have been working for more than one year


Advantages

Advantages

1. 3,000 Avios points (when you spend £1,000 in your first 3 months of Cardmembership)
2. Collect 1 BA Mile for virtually every £1 you spend
3. Automatic enrolement into the British Airways Executive Club - priority on flight waiting lists, your seat and meal choices on flights and the chance to earn more Avios
4. Spend £20,000 on your Card in a year and redeem your BA Miles on a British Airways flight and you?ll receive a complimentary ticket for a companion for the same flight and cabin
5. Travel accident benefit up to £75,000


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. Check fees and charges that apply

Amex Platinum Cashback Credit Card
Amex Platinum Cashback Credit Card

Amex Card18.7%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Representative 18.7% APR variable. Based on assumed credit limit of £1,200. Interest rate for purchases 14.0% p.a. variable

15.9%N/A0%56 DaysAsk On Application3%Amex Platinum Cashback Credit Card
American Express Platinum Money credit card gets you a 3% Moneyback standard rate - and 5% MoneyBack for the first three months. These charge cards are great for those who can afford to pay back their full balance each month. Before you apply for a credit card it is important that you consider your financial circumstances carefully. Work out which credit card is best for you. Make sure that you read the terms and conditions carefully so that you understand your financial obligations before you apply. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria


Advantages

Advantages

1.3% Moneyback
2.Online fraud guarantee and purchase and refund protection
3.Travel Accident Benefit - up to £150,000 when public transport travel tickets are charged to the Card


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1.Annual fee of £300
2.No Free Balance Transfer

The Express Rewards Credit Card
The Express Rewards Credit Card

Amex Card17.9%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Assumed borrowing of £1,200; Representative 17.9% APR (variable); Standard interest rate for purchases: 17.9% p.a. (variable)
Address: Belgrave House, 76 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 9AX

17.9%N/A0%6 monthsAsk On ApplicationNoThe Express Rewards Credit Card
With the Express Rewards Credit Card, you earn more points in the places you use your card the most. Earn up to 3 points for every £1 spent at major UK supermarkets, 2 points for every £1 at UK department stores and 1 point for every £1 elsewhere. Virtually every time you use your Card, you'll earn points, which you can save up and exchange for £25 vouchers from a selection of leading retailers, both on the high street and online. Please make sure that you read the terms and conditions of these cards carefully before you apply. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

You must be over 18 and have a good credit history.


Advantages

Advantages

1. Earn richer rewards.
2. Get you off to a great start with 6,000 bonus points (worth £30) when you spend £500 in the first 3 months of card membership.
3. Earn richer rewards with family and friends.
4. Purchase protection
5. Optional repayment protection can take care of payments on your behalf.


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. Additional charges apply.
2. £12 for late payments, returned payments or if you go over your credit limit.

Natwest Platinum Credit Card
Natwest Platinum Credit Card

mastercard18.9%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Ask on application

0%26 Months0%6 Months£1,200.00NoNatwest Platinum Credit Card
The Platinum Credit Card allows you to pay 0% on purchases for 6 months from account opening. Transfer your existing balances and pay 0% for 26 months transferred within 6 months. Before you apply for a credit card it is important that you consider your financial circumstances carefully. Work out which credit card is best for you. Make sure that you read the terms and conditions carefully so that you understand your financial obligations before you apply. It is important to make sure that this is the right card for you before you apply. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

To apply you should have an income of at least £10,000 p.a. and be aged 18 or over.


Advantages

Advantages

0% interest for 26 months on all balances transferred within 6 months. (2.9% fee, min £5)
0% on purchases for 6 months


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

Only customers with a Natwest current account, savings, loan, mortgage, credit card or insurance may apply

British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card
British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card

Amex Card56.4%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Representative 56.4% APR variable. Based on annual fee of £150 and assumed credit limit of £1200. Interest rate for purchases: 19.9% p.a. variable

0%Not available19.9%N/AAsk On ApplicationNoBritish Airways American Express Premium Plus Card
Before you apply for a credit card it is important that you consider your financial circumstances carefully. Work out which credit card is best for you. Make sure that you read the terms and conditions carefully so that you understand your financial obligations before you apply. Before you apply for a credit card it is important that you consider your financial circumstances carefully. Work out which credit card is best for you. Make sure that you read the terms and conditions carefully so that you understand your financial obligations. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

1. I am aged 18 or over
2. I have a current UK bank or building society account
3. I have a permanent UK home address
4. I have a household income of at least £30,000
5. I have no history of bad debt
6. And if self-employed, I have been working for more than one year


Advantages

Advantages

1. Roam the skies.
2. Fly with a friend.
3. Help getting off the ground.
4. Support 24/7
5. Rewards programme available.


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. £150 annual fee

Barclaycard Initial
Barclaycard Initial

Visa Card29.9%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Representative example Representative APR - 29.9% APR (variable)
Purchase rate p.a - 29.9% p.a. (variable)
Assumed credit limit - £1,200

29.9%N/A29.9%N/AAsk On ApplicationNoBarclaycard Initial
The Barclaycard initial has a sensible spending limit which can actually help you to improve your credit. Enjoy one single, simple rate for purchases and cash advances 29.9% APR typical (variable). This card could be right for you is you have a limited credit history and earn more than £10,000 a year. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria


Advantages

Advantages

1. Could be suitable if your financial situation has improved over the last 12 months, even if you may have missed payments or been affected by CCJs in the past.
2. Stay on top of your spending with free text reminders, five days before payment is due.
3. Start with a low, manageable credit limit that may be reviewed and increase.
4. Paperless statements: your new account will automatically be set up with paperless statements so that you can manage your account online.
5. With contactless payment technology, a new quick and easy way to pay for purchases of £15 or under.
6. 29.9% APR typical (variable)
7.For a limited time only there will be 0% interest on purchases for 3 months from the account opening date.
8. Receive £10 cashback when you spend a minimum of £200 in the first 3 months of opening your account (terms and conditions apply


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. You must be over the age of 18 years old.
2. You must earn more than £10,000 a year
3. APR 29.9%

The Starwood Preferred Guest Reward Credit Card
The Starwood Preferred Guest Reward Credit Card

Amex Card36.2%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Representative 36.2% APR variable. Based on annual fee of £75 and assumed credit limit of £1200. Interest rate for purchases: 19.9% p.a. variable

19.9%N/A19.9%N/AAsk On ApplicationNoThe Starwood Preferred Guest Reward Credit Card
Earn 1 Starpoint® for virtually every £1 you spend on the Reward Credit Card then use your points towards free nights, free flights, upgrades, instant awards and access to extraordinary events. Apply now and receive 20,000 Welcome Starpoints for first purchase when £1,000 is spent in the first 3 months-enough for up to five complimentary nights. Before you apply for a credit card it is important that you consider your financial circumstances carefully. Work out which credit card is best for you. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

You must be over 18 and have a good credit history.


Advantages

Advantages

1. Enjoy 20,000 bonus Starpoints when you spend £1,000 on your Card in the first three months – enough for up to five complimentary nights.
2. Earn 1 Starpoint for every full £1 spent, per transaction on your Card.
3. Receive a Free Weekend Night at any hotel or resort in categories 1-4 anywhere in the world when you spend £25,000 on the Card during each year of your Cardmembership.
4. Experience Gold Preferred Guest status when you spend £15,000 annually on your Card.
5. Share the benefits with friends and family and you will earn additional Starpoints for their purchases with Supplementary Cards
6. Complimentary flights


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. High APR 36.2%
2. A Balance Transfer fee of up to 3% of the balance transferred is payable for each balance transfer processed to your account.
3. A fee of £75 per year will be payable by you.
4. Need £30,000 household income to be eligible

Lloyds Advance Credit Card
Lloyds Advance Credit Card

mastercard11.9%
Representative Example

Representative Example

Assumed borrowing of £1,200; Representative 11.9% APR (variable); Standard interest rate for purchases: 11.9% p.a. (variable)
Address: 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN

4.9%12 Months0%6 Months£500.00NoLloyds Advance Credit Card
Our Advance MasterCard® Credit Card is your perfect shopping partner with an introductory offer of 0% on purchases for 6 months. Representative 11.9% APR (variable). This product is not available to existing Lloyds TSB credit card customers. Before you apply for a credit card it is important that you consider your financial circumstances carefully. Work out which credit card is best for you. Make sure that you read the terms and conditions carefully so that you understand your financial obligations before you apply. DETAIL INFORMATION >>Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance Criteria

This product is not available to existing Lloyds TSB credit card customers.


Advantages

Advantages

1. 0% interest on purchases for 6 months.
2. 4.9% p.a. interest for 12 months on balances transferred within the first 90 days (3% fee).
3. Special offer - 50% refund on your Balance Transfer Fee - apply and transfer £1500 or more before 30th June 2011.
4. Representative 11.9% APR (variable), interest charged from the date of the transaction.


Disadvantages

Disadvantages

1. This product is not available to existing Lloyds TSB credit card customers.
2. Default charges £12

If you wish to speak to someone: Contact Us or Enquiry Line: +44 (0) 207 386 5300

Compare Credit Cards

Credit cards are one of the most popular financial products in the world. However, you need to be careful.

Why should you get a Credit Card?

When you are given a credit card you are given a line of credit which is essentially a form of borrowing. The exact amount you can borrow is called a credit limit and this figure is based on your credit history. People take out credit cards because they allow you to pay for purchases in small monthly instalments and they give you more financial freedom.

People like spending with a credit card because they are convenient, easy to use and they have worldwide acceptance.

What are interest rates?

Credit cards have an interest rate, which is the annual rate you pay for borrowing the credit on your card. Interest rates are usually based on market interest rates, your credit history and the type of credit card you have. You will find that the better your credit history the higher your credit limit and the lower the interest. If you have a poor credit history you will be given considerably higher interest rates.

Credit cards may offer introductory rates that are lower than the standard interest rate for a specified term. This introductory rate is usually for purchases and balance transfers but it may also apply to cash advances.

Don’t fall into debt

Getting into debt with a credit card can be very easy. Do not abuse a credit card and always remember it is not free money. You will have to deal with harsh penalties for missing payments and exceeding credit limits not to mention damage your credit rating.

It can be all too easy to build up credit card debt that you cannot afford. The interest rate on credit cards can be expensive which means that they are not necessarily to most cost-effective method of carrying debt on an ongoing basis. You should at least pay the minimum amount due every month and where possible pay charges in full.

Getting the right credit card for you and your finances

Use the table above to compare different credit cards. Always make sure you read the small print fully and that you understand what the consequences are of missing payments.

As with any financial product it is important that you take the time to research the market and consider your options carefully. You need to make sure you get the right card for your personal finances.

There are a wide range of credit cards on the market from credit cards for students and cards for businesses. You can also find credit cards that come with some great rewards programmes such as cash back features, free airmiles and other discounts and offers. Some cards also come with additional features such as travel insurance so bear this in mind. To help you find the right card think about how you want to use the card.

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Capital One Aspire Elite Credit Card

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