Making Your Money Work Harder

There are hundreds of different credit card options to choose from in the United Kingdom, and indeed across the globe. Standard credit cards come with features and benefits that help with everyday purchases but if you want your credit card to work that little bit extra for you then investigating platinum options may be just what is in order.

Gold or platinum credit cards are generally used by those who have a higher level of income in addition to a good credit score, the latter being a vital factor for anyone applying for any type of credit card.

If pays to do your homework when it comes to matters of finance and the better informed you are, the less likely you are to make the wrong decision about which credit card to opt for.

Platinum credit cards usually offer more generous cash withdrawal limits and higher credit limits than their standard counterparts, both handy features for anyone who makes large purchases. Having access to larger sums of credit gives you the flexibility to use your card as and when you need it, no matter what you are buying.

You will also find that most platinum credit cards offer additional benefits to their card holders, such as travel insurance or payment protection. Some offer 0% interest on balance transfers for a specified time period whereas some offer 0% on purchases. You may find some credit card companies even offer both benefits at the same time meaning a double bonus for you.

When looking at different credit cards check the amount of APR offered. This is the annual amount of interest you will pay on purchases and balance transfers and if you are comparing credit cards then make sure you use the APR for each so the comparison is fair.

Take a look at the number of interest free days you get to pay off purchases before incurring interest. This may vary between different providers and is a useful factor to check before going ahead with your application. The more interest free days you receive the better as this gives you more time to settle your balance without having to pay to do so.

Platinum credit cards offer additional benefits but should also provide you with the features associated with a regular credit card. For example, you should be able to add additional cardholders to your platinum credit card, as long as they are aged eighteen or over.

Most platinum credit card providers also offer various ways to manage your finances so you can choose the method that suits your lifestyle best.

Online banking means you can manage your money from the comfort of your own home and can keep on top of your finances anywhere with an internet connection.

Telephone banking is also handy and sometimes you might just want to call into your local branch, all of which should be possible for platinum credit card holders.