How To Apply For A Low Interest Rate Credit Card

By: Elizabeth Nelson

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Stop paying more money than you need to by finding out how to apply for a low interest rate credit card. If you have credit card debt, you are probably paying high interest rates. You may be able to transfer your existing balance to a new credit card with a low interest rate. When you get a low interest rate credit card, you'll pay off your debt sooner and end up paying less money in the long run.

  1. Research card offers. You may get a bundle of new credit card offers in the mail each day. Quickly read through the offers, setting aside any that offer you a zero per cent APR for balance transfers or another low interest rate.  If you do not get credit card offers in the mail, check with your bank to see if you can apply for a low interest rate credit card with them or look at the websites of credit card companies.
  2. Call your current card company. If you don't have a high balance on your card and make regular payments, you may be able to call up your credit card company and request a lower interest rate. You'll have to come up with a convincing argument in order for the company to lower your interest rate. Point out that you are a good customer and that, while you would like to stick with your current card, other competitors offer much lower rates.
  3. Fill out an application. If your current company won't lower your interest rate, it's time for a new card. Printed credit card offers usually include a paper application for you to fill out and complete. If you apply for a card through your bank, you may have to go there in person to complete the paperwork. You can also fill an online application at the card company's website in most cases.
  4. Wait for a response. Don't send out more than one application at a time. Applying for several credit cards at once can hurt your credit score. Instead, wait to hear whether you are accepted or not before applying for a different low interest rate credit card.
Posted on: Aug. 29, 2010