What is a free credit card?

Credit cards have become an integral part of personal finances for most individuals today, offering convenience and flexibility in managing expenses. However, amidst the variety of options available, one question often arises: Can you really get a credit card for free? Go through this article to understand the concept of free credit cards, exploring their features, benefits, and considerations.

What does a free credit card mean?
 

A free credit card, often referred to as a "no annual fee" card, is a type of credit card that does not require cardholders to pay an annual fee for card ownership. Unlike traditional credit cards that may charge an annual fee, free credit cards waive this expense altogether. These cards offer users the convenience and benefits of credit card usage without the additional financial burden of annual fees.

However, it's essential to note that while free credit cards eliminate annual fees, they may still incur other charges such as interest rates, late payment fees, cash advance fees, and foreign transaction fees. Nevertheless, if you are seeking to minimise costs associated with credit card ownership, free credit cards can be an attractive option. 

What are lifetime-free credit cards?
 

Lifetime-free credit cards, as the name suggests, are credit cards that waive the annual and joining fees for the entire duration of their usage. Unlike traditional credit cards that often entail annual/joining fees, lifetime-free credit cards such as the IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card eliminate this expense, making them an attractive option for individuals seeking to minimise costs of owning the credit card. Additionally, with several rewards and offers, this credit card makes your shopping experience even more affordable. You earn up to 10X reward points that never expire and are redeemable anytime for extra discounts. Some notable benefits of the FIRST Millennia Credit Card are:

• Low interest fees:
  
  

  You get one of the lowest APRs starting at just 9% per annum.

• Entertainment offer:
  
  

  You enjoy up to 25% discount on movie tickets once a month.

• Railway lounge access:
  
  

  You can get complimentary access to railway lounges across the country.

• Merchant offers:
  

   

  Enjoy exclusive offers on over 300 merchants, 20% discount across 1500 restaurants, and 15% off on over 3000 health and wellness outlets.

• Insurance cover:
  
  

  Get personal accident cover of up to ₹2 lakhs and lost card liability cover of up to ₹25,000.  

How to get a lifetime-free credit card?
 

Securing a lifetime free credit card typically involves fulfilling certain eligibility criteria set forth by credit card issuers. These criteria may include minimum income requirements, credit score thresholds, and other financial considerations.

Additionally, some credit card providers may offer lifetime-free credit cards such as promotional offers to attract new customers or retain existing ones. You can explore various lifetime-free credit cards from IDFC FIRST Bank that come with no annual or joining fee whatsoever and compare their features and eligibility requirements to identify suitable options for applying for a lifetime free credit card.

Conclusion
 

While the concept of a free credit card is enticing, make sure to consider your eligibility, as well as the card’s suitability before you apply for a free credit card. Lifetime-free credit cards offer an annual fees waiver for the duration of their usage and provide a cost-effective option for individuals seeking to minimise expenses associated with credit card ownership. However, as a prospective user, you should weigh the benefits and drawbacks of these credit cards and ensure they align with your financial goals and needs.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.