Tag Archives: prepaid
Why a Free Prepaid Card May Be Right for You
There are many reasons why a free prepaid credit card may be the card for you. Perhaps you would like to teach your college kid good fiscal responsibility. Maybe you are having trouble obtaining a normal credit card due to poor credit score and would like to work on improving it.
A prepaid credit card has its fair share of advantages and disadvantages. In fact, they function more like debit cards, except there is no savings or checking account tied to the card. With a prepaid credit card, your credit limit is determined by the amount you pre-pay to the credit card company. Once the balance has been depleted, you will then be required to purchase more credit in order to continue using the card.
One of the greatest advantages of prepaid cards is the low application requirement, where a good credit score is unnecessary. In fact, you dont even need to have a credit score, or even have an income to qualify. You just need to be at least 18 years of age.
Also, most prepaid credit cards do not impose APRs on the amount you have deposited with the credit card company. This makes sense, since youre not actually obtaining credit from them. Another feature of prepaid credit cards is their ability to let you deposit your check directly onto the card balance. Not only will this save you trips to the bank, its also a great convenience if youre the type who charges everything to the credit card.
While prepaid credit cards are generally a good bet, they are not without their downsides. Like regular credit cards, they may have fees attached to them such as a monthly maintenance fees, transaction fees and ATM fees. These are costs of using your prepaid credit card, and can be significant if you dont choose the right card.
In conclusion, prepaid cards function truly well for those who do not wish to spend more than what they own, but at the same time require the convenience of a credit card. This way, you wont get carried away with your expenses or find yourself drowning in debt.
Bad Credit Credit Card Offers
Having less than perfect credit does not cancel out your credit card options. In fact, just the opposite is true. These days, credit card lenders issue plastic for every need under the sun. This includes cards designed specifically for those with poor credit. By taking advantage of bad credit credit card offers, you can get back on your financial feet in no time. Read on to learn more about bad credit credit card offers.
Prepaid Debit Cards
If you have trouble getting approved for a traditional credit card, a prepaid debit card is a smart alternative. With this option, you first deposit money into your account. You can then use your card to make purchases. To help you stay on track, your line of credit is limited to the amount you have deposited. By putting money into your account and making purchases, you will rebuild your credit. For two great prepaid options, check out the All-Access Visa Prepaid Card and the Wired Plastic Prepaid Visa Card.
Secured Credit Cards
Another option for those with bad credit is a secured credit card. This type of card requires you to open a savings account. The account serves as security for the line of credit. The credit available to you is a percentage of your deposit. This usually ranges from 50 to 100 percent. If you pay off your balance consistently, over time your line of credit will increase. A secured credit card usually includes an annual fee and high interest rate.
First Premier and Orchard
Perhaps you plan to occasionally carry a balance on your card. If this is the case, there are various bad credit credit card offers available. First Premier Bank issues cards designed for those with poor credit. First Premier Bank credit cards offer low interest rates and the chance to improve your credit rating. You can be approved instantly for one of their cards. Check out the First Premier Bank Gold MasterCard/Visa to get you started.
Orchard Bank also caters to those with a poor credit history. The Orchard Bank Platinum MasterCard offers a low interest rate on purchases. It also regularly reports to credit bureaus. This gives you a chance to use your card, pay off balances, and have creditors take notice.
Both First Premier and Orchard Bank cards include a number of fees. First Premier Bank charges initial fees of $29 and $95, as well as a monthly participation fee and annual fee. Orchard Bank requires a high annual fee.
These expenses may seem high. However, it is important to remember that these companies are offering cards to those with poor credit. Most bad credit credit card offers include extra fees due to the risks involved. Yet these cards are designed to help you improve your credit rating. Once you show that you can handle these cards wisely, you can apply for other offers.
Don’t let poor credit get you down. There are many bad credit credit card offers available. Choose the option that’s best for you and then apply online. With careful planning, you can improve your credit score. Soon you’ll be in good standings once again with lenders. This can open many more financial doors in your future.