Credit cards
What is a credit card?
A credit card is a payment instrument that allows you to make purchases or withdraw funds using a credit limit set by the bank. The amount used must be repaid according to the terms of the card.
Why is it used?
Credit cards are used for payments in stores, online or while traveling, offering financial flexibility and the ability to make purchases without immediately using your personal funds.
What should you compare?
When comparing credit cards, pay attention to:
Credit limit.
Interest rate.
Grace period.
Annual fee of the card.
ATM withdrawal fees.
Foreign payment fees.
Choose the card according to how you use it:
For everyday purchases, focus on the interest-free period and fees.
For travel, focus on international transaction fees and additional benefits.
For rewards and offers, focus on cashback, loyalty points and promotions.
For financial flexibility, focus on credit limit and repayment terms.
What you need to know?
Using a credit card does not always have interest costs. If the obligation is repaid within the interest-free period specified by the bank, interest is usually not applied to the purchases made. If the obligation is not repaid in full, the bank may apply interest on the unpaid amount.
Frequently asked questions
What is a grace period?
It is a period during which you can repay the amount used without paying interest, according to the terms of the card.
Is a credit card the same as a debit card?
No. A debit card uses the funds you have in your account, while a credit card uses a credit limit made available by the bank.
Can I withdraw money from an ATM?
Yes, but usually cash withdrawals can have different fees and interest rates than purchases.
How is the card limit determined?
The credit limit is set by the bank based on its financial assessment criteria.
Should I compare only the interest rate?
No. In addition to the interest, it is important to compare the fees, interest-free period and additional benefits that each card offers.