Best UK Credit Card Interest Rates

By: Derek Smiley

Whether you have plenty of plastic or you are applying for your first one, one thing that you have to be aware of is the interest rates. Finding the best credit card interest rates in the UK and worldwide can at first seem daunting. When you use plastic there is a rate of interest that applies for however long the amount charged remains unpaid.

While there are many reasons to pay your credit card bill as soon as it becomes due, there are many situations where you might find yourself in a situation where the interest rate becomes very important.

Credit card interest rates in the UK and the United States are on the up, the rate that companies offer their clients varies wildly. Typically, it can be anywhere from 7 percent to as high as 36 percent. There are many factors that affect the interest rate that you are given. Some banks and finance companies merely have higher interest rates than others, which is something that you can check out when you are applying. It is always recommended that you take a look around for the best interest rate.

The thing that most affects your interest rate is your previous credit history. If you have bad credit, your current company will consider your risk of nonpayment higher. In an effort to make sure that they will recoup the money, they will impose a higher interest rate on your account.

How do you find the best credit card interest rate in the UK well interest rates in the UK are not written in stone. There are a few things you can do to lower a high interest rate on your existing account. The first thing that you can do is call your credit card company. Before you do so, try to make sure that you have a good history with them before this, that you've paid your bills promptly. Politely point out your good credit history and request a lower interest rate. Credit rates are a good deal more fluid than most people think and there's a good chance that your interest rate will be lowered then and there.

If you cannot secure a lower interest rate with your own company, it is time to start looking around for a institution that is better for you. Armed with a history of good credit and prompt payments, you can easily find a credit card company that will give you favorable rates.

One thing to keep in mind at this juncture is to read all of the fine print. If the interest rate is too good to be true, it often is. If you see a company that offers a 3 percent interest rate, make sure that this is not merely an introductory offer, that is, one that expires over a certain amount of time. After a few months at a 3 percent interest rate, you might find yourself with an interest rate of 10 to 20 percent if you're not careful!

If you can get a line of credit through a credit union, they also tend to have better deals and interest rates, but you usually need to be related to whatever hosts the credit union, like a university or a corporation.

One thing for sure, finding the best credit card interest rates in the UK and the USA will always be full of surprises! There are many things you can do to lower your interest rate, so don't delay! Find a company that will give you the low interest rate you deserve.

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