Low Rate Credit Cards Guide

Key Benefits:

  • Lower interest rates
  • Reduced annual fees
  • Simple features
  • Interest-free days

Why Choose a Low Rate Card?

Low rate credit cards are ideal if you occasionally carry a balance or want to minimize interest charges. They typically have lower annual fees and simpler features compared to rewards cards.

Example Savings

On a $3,000 balance over 12 months:

  • Standard card (19.95%): $598.50 interest
  • Low rate card (12.95%): $388.50 interest
  • Potential savings: $210.00

Compare Low Rate Cards

CardInterest RateAnnual FeeFeatures
ASB Visa Light12.95%$0
  • 55 days interest-free
  • No annual fee
  • Purchase protection
ANZ Low Rate13.90%$35
  • 44 days interest-free
  • Low annual fee
  • Fraud protection
Kiwibank Low Rate13.95%$30
  • 55 days interest-free
  • Mobile payments
  • 24/7 support

Calculate Your Interest Savings

Credit Card Interest Calculator

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Results

Time to Pay Off

12 months

Total Interest

$103

Tips

  • • Paying more than the minimum payment saves interest
  • • Consider a balance transfer to save on interest
  • • Pay full balance to avoid interest charges

Key Features to Consider

Interest Rates

  • Purchase rate
  • Cash advance rate
  • Balance transfer offers
  • Interest-free days

Fees

  • Annual fee
  • Late payment fees
  • Cash advance fees
  • Foreign transaction fees

Low Rate Card Tips

  • Pay more than the minimum
  • Set up automatic payments
  • Use interest-free days
  • Avoid cash advances
  • Compare total costs

Common Questions

How do interest-free days work?

Most low rate cards offer 44-55 interest-free days on purchases if you pay your balance in full each month.

Should I choose a card with no annual fee?

Consider both the interest rate and annual fee. A slightly higher rate with no annual fee might cost less overall, depending on your typical balance.

Can I still get rewards with a low rate card?

Most low rate cards don't offer rewards programs, as they focus on providing lower interest rates instead.