Gas Credit Cards

What’s the difference between a gas credit card and a regular credit card? Why would you even bother getting a special credit card to purchase gasoline for your car? Well, the biggest benefit is that most gas credit cards offer special rebates. Many of the gas companies are attracting new clients by offering special rebates on their gas purchases, and offering low or zero interest and no annual fees.

These rebates range from 3% to 5% and gas credit card customers can request a rebate check back or rewards. Companies also encourage their gas credit card holders to use the card at their convenience stores located at the gas station as a way to increase business. Some of the other rewards that gas credit cards offer is airline miles, hotel and travel discounts and grocery rebates at participating stores.

Companies can also benefit from gas credit cards as a way to keep track of the gasoline expenses of their outside sales personnel and other employees. Many times an employee will be given a company gasoline credit card, when the company pays for the gas. This is a great way to keep track of expenses and make to make sure they keep within budget.

With the recent increase in gas prices, there has been an increased demand for gas credit cards. Some of the offers may seem appealing, but it’s important to understand the numerous terms and conditions of the card because sometimes it may make more sense to get a standard rewards card or something similar.

Gas Credit Cards

Gas reward cards are better for people who have good credit and are able to pay off the total balance due every month. If you’re the type of person who usually pays minimum balances, then a regular credit card may be better for you. Gas credit cards are great because of the gas rewards, but make sure you pay the full balance.

Generally any type of rewards card will have higher interest rates, so if you just pay minimum balances, the rewards you earn will be wiped out by the extra interest charges. Many gas station credit cards offer certain incentives but what’s more important when you apply for gas credit cards is to look beyond that and compare the benefits you will get once the incentives are over.

Gas credit cards are issued either by the major banks or by the actual gasoline companies who brand them with their own company logos. The biggest difference of course is that the branded cards will require that you only purchase gasoline at those gas stations, like Shell and Chevron for example. The reality is though is that it’s usually the large banks that underwrite the cards anyway.

Which ever card you choose, make sure you familiarize yourself with all the terms and conditions as well as the rewards that are offered. Be sure to compare rewards between each card and do your best to pay the full balance when you get your statement.