How to compare Platinum Card Offers

Summary: The idea of acquiring a Platinum Card may be alluring, but before you make that all important decision on the card of your choice, it may be wise to pay attention to the finer details or differences before making a choice.

The idea of acquiring a Platinum Card may be alluring, but before you make that all important decision on the card of your choice, it may be wise to pay attention to the finer details or differences before making a choice. Indeed, the variations in terms of interest rates, reward points or even credit limits of different credit cards are able to bring significant value to consumers. In general, platinum cards have higher credit limits and thus require applicants to possess a good credit history. However, certain credit card companies raise the bar on applicants by setting requirements for certain criteria to be met before approval. For instance, while some platinum credit card companies require a minimum annual household income of $35000, others pose a higher limit of $60000. Apart from that, certain credit card applicants need only be 18 years of age, while some others may limit their customers to the 25 and above age group. Furthermore, when it comes to APR and credit history, things are never as clear cut as they seem to be. After going though their customers' credit report, card providers may categorize these applicants into different levels of credit health. This could mean a difference of between 4% and 8% on the applicants APR. It is also the norm for platinum cards to offer lots of benefits in line with their relatively low APRs. However, this could mean that credit card users may be paying for their rewards through high annual credit card fees. Some platinum cards may require an annual fee of $300 while others waive this fee for the first few years. Another variation to this is platinum credit card companies that waive their annual fees for those who charge a stipulated minimum amount within a specific time frame. Nevertheless, platinum card users may still be bogged down with other high fees such as transaction fees, card replacement fees or late payment charges. Finally, consumers should check out the rewards that come with a platinum credit card. Applicants should always pick a card with rewards that are suitable to their needs. If they travel a lot, then a platinum card with travel reward benefits would be more suitable than another with cash-back rebates.