The credit card market has grown significantly over the years, and today, there are many different types of credit cards in India. Although each credit card category's core function is similar, each card type has unique features and benefits.
If you are shopping for a new credit card for your financial portfolio, it is essential to understand the many types of credit cards in India to make an informed choice. Check out the options available to you and what they each entail.
Basic credit cards provide a small credit limit based on income, allowing you to make purchases and transactions. They are beginner-friendly and lack additional benefits or rewards. These cards suit those wanting to try them before expanding their credit portfolio.
Key features of this basic credit cards:
It may be challenging to get a credit card if you have a poor credit history or no credit history. However, secured credit cards can help you here since they are typically issued against deposits made with the issuing bank. It makes them ideal choices for people trying to build a credit score. In some cases, you can also earn interest on your bank deposit simultaneously.
Key features of secured credit cards:
These credit cards offer rewards for eligible transactions, such as earning 2 reward points for every Rs. 100 spent online. Points can be redeemed for products or services from a curated catalogue. Earn while you spend.
Key features of rewards credit cards:
As the name indicates, cashback credit cards tend to offer a percentage of the expenses made as cashback for eligible spends and transactions. The cashback may only be offered on specific 'spend' categories — so check the details before you apply for this type of credit card. The percentage of money gained also varies from one card to another and from one spend category to another.
Key features of rewards credit cards:
Travel credit cards are ideal for frequent travellers, offering benefits like air mile rewards for flights. Accumulated air miles can be redeemed for tickets. These cards also come with additional advantageous features.
Key features of travel credit cards:
As the name indicates, these credit cards are select financial products with strict eligibility criteria. They offer premium, top-of-the-range benefits. Due to the nature of the rewards, premium credit cards are typically only provided to people with a certain income level.
Key features of premium credit cards:
Banks issue co-branded credit cards in partnership with top brands in different industries and sectors. Banks may often tie up with industry leaders to issue co-branded credit cards, which offer exclusive rewards and discounts when you make transactions for purchases from the brand partner.
Key features of co-branded credit cards:
Banks typically issue Business credit cards for companies who want to make it easier for their employees to pay for business-related expenses. Usually, these cards get used for work-related flight bookings, accommodation expenses and regular commuting costs. Not all employees receive such cards — mainly offered to employees who travel for work regularly.
Key features of business credit cards:
Well, now that you know the different types of credit cards in India, you can make a more informed choice about the kind of card that you need. Remember that you can have more than one kind of credit card in your financial portfolio, so if you are eligible for multiple cards and benefit from them, you can always apply for them. Just remember to pay the dues on time, so you can avoid the high-interest charges and make the most of the rewards and features on your credit card.
If you're looking for a credit card that gives you the best bang for your buck with multiple benefits, the Fi-Federal co-branded credit card is what you need. With this card, you're assured of a 2% valueback through rewards. But it doesn’t stop there! You'll also get 5x on your top 3 brands, 2x on all partner brands listed in the Fi Catalogue (including Amazon, Netflix, etc.) and 1x on everything else, including rent and fuel. You'll also enjoy airport lounge access, 1% forex, the freedom to choose your billing cycle, and personalised reminders. With consolidated spending insights, you can easily track your spending and make informed financial decisions. The welcome offer includes exclusive vouchers from top brands worth ₹5,000!
There are several different types of credit cards available in India. Some of the common credit card categories that you can choose from include the following:
There is no universal, one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It all depends on what your financial needs and goals are. For instance, if you travel frequently, a travel credit card may be your ideal choice. Alternatively, getting a secured credit card may be easier if you have made a deposit with the issuing bank. Similarly, if you shop a lot online, a cashback credit card or a rewards credit card may be suitable options to consider.
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