Understanding the Different Types of Credit Cards

Are you one of the 84% of U.S. adults who own a credit card? With such a significant portion of the population using credit cards, it’s crucial to choose the right one for your financial situation. Let’s explore the world of credit cards and understand how to navigate it successfully.

The Appeal of Reward Credit Cards

Reward credit cards have taken the financial world by storm. In 2019, these cards accounted for 60 percent of all new credit card accounts, a testament to their popularity. But what exactly are reward credit cards, and why is everyone so keen on them?

Reward credit cards offer incentives for every dollar spent. These incentives, or rewards, can take many forms – from cashback and travel miles to points that can be redeemed for merchandise. It’s no surprise that these cards have become a hit, considering the global value of consumer credit card rewards is expected to exceed $108 billion by 2026, rising from $92 billion.

Rewards also influence credit card usage significantly. 70% of cardholders with an average household income of $50,000 per year say benefits and rewards have a significant impact on their credit card usage. Put simply, the more enticing the rewards, the more likely people are to use their credit cards.

Types of Credit Cards: An Overview

Below is a quick overview of the different types of credit cards available:

• Standard (or Plain-Vanilla) Credit Cards: These are basic credit cards that don’t offer rewards or perks. They’re best for those who want a simple credit card without any frills.
• Reward Credit Cards: As discussed earlier, these cards offer incentives for spending. There are various types like cashback cards, travel rewards cards, and points cards.
• Secured Credit Cards: These cards require a cash deposit as collateral. They’re a great option for those with poor credit or no credit history.
• Student Credit Cards: Designed specifically for college students, these cards often have low credit limits and perks that reward good grades and responsible credit usage.
• Business Credit Cards: These cards offer perks that are beneficial for business owners, like higher credit limits and rewards on business-related expenses.
• Balance Transfer Credit Cards: These cards allow you to transfer balances from other credit cards, often with a lower interest rate. They are useful for consolidating debt.
• Subprime Credit Cards: Aimed at those with poor credit scores, these cards often have high-interest rates and fees.
• Limited Purpose Cards: These cards can only be used at specific locations, like a particular retail store.
• Charge Cards: These cards require the balance to be paid in full each month.

Understanding these types can help you choose a credit card that best suits your financial situation and spending habits.

Delving into Reward Credit Cards

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive deeper into reward credit cards. As mentioned earlier, these cards offer rewards for every dollar you spend. For example, a cashback card might offer 1% cash back on all purchases, while a travel rewards card might offer 2 miles for every dollar spent on travel and dining.

Maximizing your credit card rewards involves choosing a card that aligns with your spending habits. If you frequently travel, a travel rewards card could be beneficial. If you spend a lot on groceries and gas, look for a card that offers higher reward rates in these categories.

Interestingly, a surprising 23 percent of cardholders leave money on the table by not redeeming credit card rewards. To avoid this, make sure to stay on top of your rewards and redeem them regularly. After all, these rewards are a major reason why people opt for these cards in the first place.

The Redistribution Impact of Reward Credit Cards

While the benefits of reward credit cards are captivating, it’s important to understand their broader economic implications. A study concluded that the rewards credit card system creates an estimated annual redistribution of more than $15 billion. This redistribution effect refers to a shift in wealth that occurs as higher-income individuals often receive more benefits from rewards, while lower-income individuals bear the cost indirectly. It’s a complex dynamic that underscores the need for responsible credit card usage and awareness of the wider financial ecosystem.

Choosing the Right Credit Card

With a multitude of credit card options available, selecting the one that best aligns with your financial situation can be overwhelming. However, it’s a critical decision that can greatly impact your financial health. 53% of rewards cardholders say they compared multiple credit cards before applying, emphasizing the importance of meticulous comparison and consideration.

When choosing a credit card, consider several key factors:

• Interest Rates: Look at the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) to understand how much you’ll be charged for carrying a balance.
• Fees: Be aware of annual fees, late payment fees, foreign transaction fees, and others that may apply.
• Reward Structure: If you’re considering a rewards card, understand how the rewards are earned and redeemed. Look for a card that rewards your most common purchases.
• Credit Limit: Check the maximum amount that you can charge to your card.
• Secured or Unsecured: Decide if you’re willing to provide a security deposit for a secured card, or if you prefer an unsecured card.
• Other Benefits: Some cards offer additional benefits like purchase protection, travel insurance, or extended warranty coverage.

Here’s a quick comparison: