Whenever I receive a [tag]credit card pitch[/tag] in the mail, it always emphasizes the wonderful [tag]credit card interest rate[/tag] on the cover. 3%, 2%, 0% APR! Wow!
Ahem. Contrary to what they always display across the front of these envelopes, only a handful of these credit card offers are worth looking into. You always have to read that fine print. It generally covers the back side of the offer.

This is where they give you a dose of reality. Yes indeed, it’s time for the real deal. That fabulous 0% credit card interest rate is actually only for the first year, and it probably only pertains to balance transfers.

Ah ha! They thought they were clever. The true [tag]interest rate[/tag] is generally something less savory. And while a company may pitch a perfect credit card interest rate for the first year, it will sadly go way up to around 15-20% at the end of the introductory term. No one wants that garbage.

If you are not currently aware of your credit card interest rate, then I suggest you do some checking. It’s imperative because these things will change and you may not even notice. That’s how sneaky those guys are. Ever miss the due date on your card payment? Watch what it does to your interest rate.
With the turn of a new year, or at the end of the term, you can bet that they’re going to raise that credit card interest rate to new heights. When this happens it may be time to search for a new card or call the company and have a serious talk.

Since the credit card companies actually want to have you as a customer they will listen to what you have to say, though they may not do anything. You may be able to get a point, or a few points, knocked off your interest rate. IF you’ve been a good customer and have been making all your payments ontime and haven’t gone over your limit.

Give it a try. The worst thing that can happen is that they’ll say they can’t do it at this time. They may even give you suggestions so that they can do it.
KM