Ask the card issuer for the terms and conditions for the following: Repayment grace period Interest rate charges for outstanding balances Minimum monthly payments Late payment charges Cash Advance charges Lost/Stolen card liability Also ask about Membership Fees When will the promotional free membership period, if any, expire? What is the fee I will have to pay after that? Payment What is the minimum amount I have to pay each month? How much interest do I have to pay on the outstanding amount? If I do not make the minimum payment for one month, what are the interest and other charges that I will have to pay? What are the charges I will incur if my payment, either by cheque or GIRO, is returned for whatever reasons? Cash Advances If I take a cash advance from my credit card line, what are the charges that I will have to pay? Loss of Credit Card If I lose my credit card, what must I do? If I lose my card what are my liabilities for unauthorised purchases? Credit Limit What is my credit limit? Changes in Terms and Conditions If there are changes in the terms and conditions for the use of the card, will I be informed of these changes? If so, when will I be informed? In addition, ask yourself the following questions when applying for a credit card: Why am I applying for this card? Am I able to pay for the purchases in full each month? If I rollover my payments, do I have the capacity to pay the accompanying charges? Do I understand the terms and conditions for the use of the card? What action can the bank take if I fail to settle my overdue payments? |