Credit cards and charge cards are two major types of payment cards that consumers use for purchases and transactions. While they share some common features, there are important distinctions between how charge cards and credit cards work.
In this blog post, we will examine the key differences between charge cards and credit cards when it comes to approval requirements, spending limits, interest rates, billing cycles, and more. Understanding these differences allows you to choose the right card for your financial situation.
Overview of Charge Cards
A charge card is a payment card that requires you to pay off the full balance each billing cycle. The balance cannot be revolved over to the next cycle like a credit card. Some of the best-known charge cards are:
- American Express Gold Card
- American Express Platinum Card
- Diners Club Card
Let’s explore some of the defining features of charge cards:
No Pre-Set Spending Limit
Most charge cards do not have a pre-determined spending limit. Your purchasing power is flexible based on your usage and payment history. However, there is typically a limit on large single transactions.
Must Pay Full Balance Monthly
Unlike credit cards, charge cards require you to pay the full balance each month on receipt of your statement. You cannot carry over a balance on a charge card.
Frequent Billing Cycles
Charge cards have shorter billing cycles than credit cards – often around 25 days rather than 30. Statements are sent frequently and payment is due quickly.
Designed for Responsible Users
Charge cards expect disciplined spending behavior from users given the mandatory full payment. They appeal to higher-income users.
Overview of Credit Cards
Now let’s look at the key features of credit cards:
Revolving Credit Lines
Credit cards provide revolving credit lines that let you carry balances over month after month. You only need to pay a minimum amount each cycle.
Pre-Set Credit Limits
Credit cards have pre-defined credit limits based on your profile. Purchases cannot exceed the approved limit.
30-Day Billing Cycles
Credit card billing cycles are typically 30 days. You get a statement at the end of each cycle summarizing charges and minimum due.
Allow Balance Rollovers
If you don’t pay the full balance, credit cards let you roll over the amount owed into the next billing cycle. This revolving debt incurs interest charges.
Comparing Approval Requirements
Charge cards and credit cards have different approval requirements:
Charge Card Approval
- Focus on income level and spending habits
- Require excellent credit score
- Prefer high-income individuals with disciplined spending
They target affluent individuals who pay bills on time and can handle larger balances responsibly.
Credit Card Approval
- Assess income, credit score, and other factors
- Have a wider range of approval scores
- Offer cards for poor credit or rebuilding credit
Credit card issuers approve a broader segment of consumers using customized criteria.
Spending Limits Compared
Let’s compare the spending limits on charge cards versus credit cards:
Charge Card Limits
- No, pre-set spending cap
- Limit based on usage and history
- Constraints on large single transactions
- High limits for big spenders
Limits adapt based on your spending patterns rather than being fixed.
Credit Card Limits
- Pre-approved credit limit based on profile
- Specific dollar limit assigned
- Cannot exceed the approved limit
- Lower limits for risky applicants
The maximum is fixed based on the lender’s risk assessment of the borrower.
Interest Rates and Fees
Since charge cards have no rollover balances, there are key differences in interest and fees:
Charge Card Interest and Fees
- No interest rates since no rollover balance
- No late fee if the full balance is paid promptly
- High fees for late payment after the due date
- Low or no annual fees on basic cards
Interest doesn’t apply but late fees can be steep if payment is missed.
Credit Card Interest and Fees
- Ongoing interest in revolving balances
- Higher APRs for cash advances or low scores
- Modest late fees if minimum payment missed
- Annual fees on premium and rewards cards
Interest accrues based on the amount carried over monthly. Late fees are lower than on charge cards.
Billing Cycle Comparison
The billing cycle frequency also differs:
Charge Card Billing Cycle
- Typically, 25 days between statements
- Charges added to next statement balance
- Due in full when the statement received
Shorter cycles result in more frequent billing and required payment.
Credit Card Billing Cycle
- Normally 30 days between statements
- Allows balance rollovers month-to-month
- Minimum payment due on receipt
Monthly billing allows the revolving of the balance and incremental payments.
Which Card is Right for You?
When choosing between a charge card or credit card, assess your financial discipline, spending tendencies, and repayment habits:
Charge cards are best for – Responsible spenders, high credit scores, and larger budgets
Credit cards are best for – Average credit scores, limited budgets, revolving debt
You have to examine your profile and needs to pick the right match.
Conclusion: Key Differences
- Charge cards require full payment while credit cards allow revolving balances
- Charge cards offer flexible limits based on usage while credit cards have pre-set limits
- Charge cards are for disciplined spenders while credit cards approve broader consumers
- Charge cards have no interest but higher late fees compared to credit cards
- Charge cards have shorter billing cycles while credit cards are monthly
Assessing these key differences allows you to choose the optimal type of card for spending, convenience, and financial management. Both charge cards and credit cards have their advantages based on user habits and needs.
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