subject: Best credit cards [print this page] Some people who find themselves unable to exhibit financial discipline when given the ability to spend money they don't necessarily have at their disposal, can quickly become immersed in credit card debt. For others however, who can manage to pay off their credit cards each month, within the interest free period, or who can generally stay on top of their payments, the ownership of credit cards can be quite rewarding in many ways. Some benefits of having credit cards can include the following:
Rewards are offered by most credit card providers. Every transaction (except cash out), made through card usage, attracts a prescribed number of reward points. These reward points can be claimed back to make purchases through a catalogue or through the redemption of frequent flier points with a specific airline. Some providers are including cash back programs which will return a percentage cash back on particular purchases.
No need to carry cash. Most major credit cards can be used in most parts of the world. This negates the need to carry large amounts of cash around with you, especially in areas where there is the potential of theft occurring. It also makes purchasing easier and more convenient. It is an ideal way to make easy purchases online.
Unexpected emergencies can happen at any time, anywhere. It could be a car breakdown many kilometres away from home, a sudden illness or injury. A missed flight which means an extra overnight stay. Many occasions when the need for ready cash suddenly arrives and the bank is not nearby or maybe closed. It is then that a credit card in invaluable.
Protection against theft. Most providers of credit cards offer their clients comprehensive theft and fraud protection. This means that if your credit card is stolen or your personal information is stolen and used to make purchases that you haven't authorized you will be protected against any personal loss. If of course your cash is stolen there is no such guarantee.
The need to have credit cards in order to make the paying of bills over the telephone or by internet is becoming more and more pronounced. Many companies even frown at being offered cash. For instance have you ever tried offering cash to obtain the services of car rental? As with anything else however, a high degree of discipline is required to use a credit card responsibly.
If used properly a credit card can make life much more enjoyable and its proper use can enhance your credit rating at the same time.
