Credit cards and retail accounts make it possible for us to buy these items when we need them, and then pay them off in instalments. But which is better?
It may be easier to budget and do sensible financial planning if you have fewer credit accounts. If you have many retail accounts, it is harder to keep track of expenses, and you are more likely to fall into the debt trap.
You may be less likely to do impulse buying if you do not have a retail account. One line facility in the form of a credit card can help limit temptation that comes in the form of sales and promotions. Just be sure not to use your credit card for unnecessary purchases either!
Depending on the amount of credit you apply for and the time you choose to repay it, credit cards can offer substantially lower interest rates than the average retail account.
Most credit cards also offer a 55 day interest-free period if you choose the straight charge option. This means you pay no interest if you service your debt and repay credit during that time. With a Capitec Global One credit card, you actually earn interest on a positive balance, which can potentially cover your monthly service fee.
Credit cards allow you to take advantage of online promotions and do secure online payments. They are also useful for travelling abroad. You can book low-cost flights and car rentals online, as well as take advantage of online hotel promotions. With a Capitec Global One credit card, you can do cashless payments when travelling abroad without paying additional currency conversion fees.
If you earn a minimum salary of R3 000 or more and is over the age of 18, you can apply for a Capitec Global One credit card. The card is issued immediately for an initiation fee of R100 and a monthly account service fee of R35. The amount of credit you are given, depends on your credit record and affordability.
