Credit cards

How do I choose the right credit card?

Start with what you want the card for — moving an existing balance, spreading the cost of a purchase, building your credit history or earning rewards — and compare cards of that type. Look at how long any 0% period lasts, the fees, and the interest rate that applies once the offer ends.

  • Choose the card type for your goal
  • Check what happens when a 0% period ends
  • Balance transfers usually carry a fee
  • Section 75 can protect purchases over £100

Last reviewed October 2026

Types of credit card

  • Balance transfer cards — move existing card debt and pay a lower rate, often 0%, for a set period
  • 0% purchase cards — spread the cost of new spending interest-free for a set period
  • Credit builder cards — lower limits, designed for people with a limited or poor credit history
  • Rewards and cashback cards — earn points or cashback on spending, best if you repay in full each month

Understanding the costs

Representative APR is the rate that at least 51% of accepted applicants receive — you could be offered a different rate. Balance transfers usually charge a one-off fee as a percentage of the amount moved. Using a credit card for cash withdrawals usually incurs a fee and interest from the day you withdraw.

If you only make minimum payments, it can take a long time and cost much more to clear the balance.

Protection on purchases

Under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, if you pay for something costing between £100 and £30,000 at least partly on a credit card, the card provider can be jointly liable if something goes wrong with the purchase.

Before you apply

Each application normally leaves a hard search on your credit file, and several in a short time can affect future applications. Many providers offer a pre-application check that shows how likely you are to be accepted without affecting your credit file.

If you're struggling with existing debt, free and impartial help is available from MoneyHelper, StepChange and National Debtline.

Common questions

What does representative APR mean?

It's the rate that at least 51% of people accepted for the card receive. The rate you're offered depends on your circumstances and could be higher.

What happens when a 0% period ends?

Any remaining balance starts being charged at the card's standard rate. Check what that rate is and plan to clear or move the balance before the offer ends.

Do balance transfers cost anything?

Most balance transfer cards charge a fee, usually a percentage of the amount transferred. Some cards have no fee but a shorter 0% period.

What is Section 75?

A legal protection that can make your card provider jointly liable for purchases between £100 and £30,000 if the retailer doesn't deliver or the goods are faulty.

Will applying for a credit card affect my credit score?

A full application normally records a hard search on your credit file. A pre-application check offered by many providers doesn't affect your file.

Important: This page is general information, not financial advice or a personal recommendation. Product features and eligibility vary by provider — check the provider's own terms before you buy or apply. Credit is subject to status and the provider's own lending decision. CleverCompare does not lend or arrange credit.