How to Compare Gas Cards

It's not surprising how the use of gas cards has increased recently. Gas prices have hit record levels. Actually, they are twice than last year. Using gas cards can actually reduce the pinch at the gas pump. If you aren't a gas card user yet, don't miss out on this great opportunity t stretch your gas money. But before you start using one, take time to choose the right card for you. Explore your options; compare gas cards.

The first criteria you must consider in choosing a gas card is the cash pay out. According to this criterion, there are two types of gas cards: prepaid and credit. Using the prepaid card will mean no hassles of paying your balance at the end of the billing period however, you loose your card balance in the event that you misplace or loose or card.

If you go for the credit type, then your next criteria in choosing your card should be the annual percentage rate. This is the rate that is charged against the balance of your card-if you maintain a balance. Gas cards have higher rates than the average credit card so it will be best to choose a card that has the lowest rate. However, it will be best not to maintain a balance on your card if you want to maximize your gas credit card.

The third most important thing is the percentage rebate. Actually, this should have the same importance as the APR. The percentage rebate is the rate that is charged against your gas purchases. In short, this is your gas savings. Normally, percentage rebates are between 2% and 5%. The highest percentage can be easy to find but they usually carry high APRs. This won't be a problem for you if you do not plan to maintain a balance on your card. Cards with low APRs usually have lower percentage rebate, so, you should weigh your options carefully. Interests can undermine your savings.

Explore your options well and don't miss out on this great opportunity to stretch your gas money!

Want to start saving using gas cards? Visit http://www.GasCardsGalore.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_F_Smith

Get the Best From Gas Cards

With the recent gas price increases, motorists are all the more keen on using gas cards. Using gas cards offers motorists the opportunity to earn rebates, usually from 2% to 5% or even more during introductory periods. But rewards or rebates are not limited to this rate. Here are some of the best tips on how to get the best from gas cards.

1. Use gas cards to purchase prepaid gas cards at gasoline stores. Most cards offer rebates on gasoline store purchases. Therefore, you get to earn two discounts. One from the prepaid gas card purchase and on gas purchases from the card.

2. Use gas cards that can be used at any gas station. Station exclusive cards may offer higher rebates or more rewards but you miss out on savings in situations when you may need to pump gas at other stations.

3. Do not maintain a balance on your gas credit card. When you do, you will need to pay the annual percentage rate that is charged against it. Basically, this rate is higher than the average credit card rate and may easily undermine your savings.

4. Take note of expiration dates especially on redeeming rewards points. You earn rewards points on gas purchases with gas cards. Make sure that you redeem them; don't watch your savings go down the drain.

5. Use cash back rewards for gas purchases only. If you receive your cash back via a credit to your card and use it for gas purchases, you earn rebates too. In the long run, your savings may reach 20%.

Using gas cards is a good way to stretch gas money. But don't just be content on the percentage rebate. Get the best from your gas card with the tips above and you will be guaranteed of more savings and rewards.

Want to start saving using gas cards? Visit http://www.GasCardsGalore.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_F_Smith