Finance

Discover the secrets of credit card interest and how to save money!

A credit card can be a good advantage for making virtual purchases, abroad and even if you need to spend a large amount just once! But how does the interest on this service work? Come and find out the details and calculate how much you are paying more!

Advertisement

Don't let card interest drain your pocket! Learn how to save and achieve financial freedom

Selective focus credit card payment with close up shot.
Discover the secrets of credit card interest and how to save money! Source: AdobeStock

Discover the secret to your credit card interest, learn how to spend, save and enjoy the benefits that a card can offer you without having to pay dearly for what it offers!

Have you ever stopped to think about how your credit card interest rates can affect your finances? Here, we will unravel everything about this crucial subject without using complicated words. The goal is to help you make the best choice!

mulher em café esperando para pagar a compra com cartão de crédito

How to get a credit card with a high limit?

Getting a credit card with a high limit helps you when purchasing higher-value goods, trips or courses, for example. To find out how to get it, keep reading and see tips!

Understanding how credit card interest works, how much a monthly fee can reach and other associated charges will help you save and prevent your debts from snowballing.

So, get ready to unravel the mysteries of the financial world and take control of your money. Continue reading to discover all the details and transform your relationship with your credit card!

How do card payments work?

Credit cards in Portugal offer a series of benefits, such as discounts at partner stores, cashback, free operations and the possibility of splitting your payment.

However, it is necessary to be careful, as this is one of the most expensive and costly forms of credit for users. In other words, it is essential that you know all the details before going out using yours.

So how does credit card payment work? Therefore, when subscribing to the service, the bank provides you with a ceiling, that is, a credit limit to spend. In fact, it is possible to change this value according to your income.

What are the uses of a credit card?

Young caucasian woman wear purple shirt white t-shirt casual clothes using mobile cell phone hold credit bank card do online shopping order delivery booking tour isolated on plain orange background
Don't let card interest drain your pocket! Learn how to save and achieve your financial freedom. Source: AdobeStock

Furthermore, you can use the card for two basic operations. The first is payment for purchases, goods and services purchased both online and in person. The second concerns cash withdrawals at the ATM, cash advance!

So, to give you an example, with a credit card you can pay for your purchases at a future date, agreed with your bank. On the other hand, with a debit card, the money already leaves your account directly!

However, this possibility, which may seem advantageous, could end up being a thorn in your side if you are unable to pay off your debt by the deadline, or split the payment, being forced to pay the interest on your credit card!


How are credit card interest calculated in Portugal?

Interest is represented by two rates on your credit card: the APR and the TAN! However, it is important to keep an eye on the APR value, because it condenses the TAN and other interest payments to the bank.

This way, when you open your account or request your card, check the fee amount to decide whether it is worth it and worth it or not! In addition, other fees involve late payment interest when you delay payment.

When requesting a cash advance at an ATM, you may need to pay a fee. To find out the amount, you must consult your bank's price list. Furthermore, paying for purchases abroad may also generate extra fees.

homem mexendo no computador ao lado de mulher segurando cartão de crédito

4 online credit card options approved instantly

There are different credit card options with immediate approval for you to apply for online. These are international cards, options with no annual fee and discount programs!

Average interest rates for credit cards in Portugal?

In fact, it is worth mentioning that the interest rate for credit cards is the highest of all credit operations in Portugal. Thus, Banco de Portugal regulates that the maximum APR limit for credit cards is almost 16%.

Compared to other services, such as personal credit, this percentage is no more than 7%. In other words, depending on the situation, you may consider applying for a personal loan to have less debt.

The impact of only paying the minimum on your credit card bill

When you pay your credit card bill in installments, what happens is that you will pay the interest, the longer you delay, the higher this amount will be.

So, always try to pay the full amount of your credit card bill to avoid being subject to interest. Furthermore, if you use the card again, even though you are already in debt, the situation will only get worse.

The same goes for using another card to pay part of the debt. The ideal in this case is to reduce expenses and, in the worst case scenario, take out a loan!

Strategies to avoid paying excessive interest on your credit card

Buying with Credit Card
Strategies to avoid paying excessive interest on your credit card. Source: AdobeStock

Firstly, it is important to find a bank that offers the greatest benefits and lowest interest rates for credit cards. Additionally, you can talk to the bank and request a rate reduction!

Furthermore, the important thing is to spend consciously with your credit card, so that you generate as few debts as possible and can settle them all smoothly! So, when in doubt, do the math!

Recommended alternative: Can a foreigner have a credit card in Portugal?

Now that you know more details about credit card interest in Portugal, be careful to ensure your debts don't snowball. Consider whether you need to spend this amount on the card or whether there is another, more economical way!

If you are a foreigner in Portugal, you may be wondering whether you can obtain a credit card easily. Be aware that there is a variety of cards that accept people other than Portuguese citizens.

So, discover a series of digital banks that offer unique and interesting conditions that make the opportunity for a foreigner to obtain a credit card in Portuguese lands advantageous.

So, access the post below and check out all the details in our exclusive review! Discover the biggest advantages and disadvantages of applying for a card as a foreigner and find out how to apply!

Pessoa segurando cartão junto com notebook

Credit card for foreigners: how to get one?

Being a foreigner can often bring enormous difficulties. One of them is having access to banking services. But it is possible to obtain a credit card in Portugal as a foreigner. See how!

About the author  /  Filipe Travanca

Bachelor in History and Audiovisual from the University of São Paulo. Passionate about writing and literature, he works as a screenwriter, editor and short story writer, exploring the most varied themes and subjects. A very curious person, who likes to study a little bit of everything and share this learning in his texts.

Reviewed by  / 

Senior Editor

Trending Topics

content

What are the types of home loan rates? Find out how they work

Are you going to apply for a loan to purchase or build a property? Find out what types of home loan rates are and see which ones are the best!

Keep Reading
content

Find out how to take out Crédito 2 Rodas Banco Primus and have fixed installments until the end of the contract

Taking out Credit 2 Rodas Banco Primus is easy and online. With this option you can finance up to 100% of the value of the motorcycle. Look!

Keep Reading
content

How to apply for CrediJet © personal credit?

Learn here how to request CrediJet © Credit quickly and safely and without leaving home! Check out the step by step here.

Keep Reading

You may also like

content

How to apply for a Residence Visa for Study, Exchange, Internship or Volunteering?

Do you want to know how to apply for your Residence Visa for Exchange, Study, Volunteering or Internship? You just need to go to a consulate!

Keep Reading
content

MetLife Insurance: get to know and ensure peace of mind for your future

Discover the insurance company MetLife, which guarantees assistance for medical accidents, such as fractures, hospitalization, serious illnesses and more!

Keep Reading
content

DS Credit Intermediaries: find assistance when taking out credit!

DS Intermediários de Crédito is free and helps you find the best line of credit according to your profile. Know more!

Keep Reading