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How To Apply For Gas Credit Cards

By: Elizabeth Nelson

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you drive a lot, you may want to learn how to apply for gas credit cards in order to save money when you fuel up. Gas credit cards usually give a person a cash rebate when they purchase gasoline. In some cases, the credit cards offer smaller rebates on other purchases, such as groceries, as well. If you want to apply for gas credit cards, make sure you will be able to pay down the balance in full each month. Otherwise, any savings you get from the rebates will just go to paying the extra interest charges.

  1. Research card offers. Read the fine print on any gas credit card offers you come across. Some cards may only give you a rebate if you spend a certain amount at certain gas stations. Others may offer you an introductory rebate that drops after a few months. Check the interest rate on the gas credit cards as well before applying. Getting five per cent back isn't much if you wind up with an interest rate of 24 per cent.
  2. Check your credit. You may not be able to qualify for gas credit cards and their benefits if you have a history of bad credit, including late or missed payments. Eliminate the chance of any surprises by checking your credit through a reporting company before applying. If there are any mistakes, report them.
  3. Fill out the paperwork. Find a website that lists offers for gas credit cards and apply for the one you like. You can also fill out a paper application if offers for gas credit cards are mailed to you or complete an application at a gas station.
  4. Wait for a response. You'll only need one gas credit card. Wait for the card to approve you before applying for another. If you do need to apply for several gas credit cards, wait a few months between applications so that you do not hurt your credit score too much.
Posted on: Aug. 29, 2010