Here’s a guide to the different types of fees, when they occur and how to avoid them.
Firstly, it’s important to recognise the difference between interest and fees. If you don’t pay off what you owe in full each month – you’ll typically be charged interest on the outstanding amount, known as the balance.
Some credit cards also come with an annual fee, though many don’t. More often, you’ll incur fees for doing, or not doing, something in particular.
Explore: How do credit cards work?
A fee for making a monthly repayment late. It’s typically £12. You’ll also incur a fee if you pay less than the agreed minimum repayment or if your payment bounces.
A fee for going beyond your credit card limit – in other words, owing more than a card provider has agreed to lend you at any given time. This fee is also likely to be around £12.
There’s often a fee for transferring your outstanding balance from one credit card to another. This will be set out in any offer made to you.
There’s typically a fee for withdrawing cash – known as a cash advance. This will often be a percentage of the amount you withdraw, with a stated minimum fee. The minimum on HSBC credit cards is £3.
You may have to pay a non-sterling transaction fee for using your card outside the UK and when withdrawing cash.
The good news is, the above fees are avoidable. Here are some tips on how to manage your credit card so you don’t incur fees:
Ideally, pay off your balance in full each month. Failing that, pay as much as you can and at the very least your minimum repayment.
Explore: Tips for paying off your credit card
Direct Debits help you avoid fees and give you one less job to do each month. Set up a recurring monthly payment for as much as you can afford to pay off and at least the minimum repayment.
If you do automate your payments, keep in mind you can still make other payments throughout the month so you can clear the debt faster.
Pay at the time of month that suits you best. For example, if you get paid on a certain day each month, set up a Direct Debit for the money to come out on that day or the day after. Then you’ll know you can make the payment.
Check the terms of your credit card and keep your borrowing limit in mind. Make sure it’s set at a level you’re comfortable with and don’t go over it. Check your statements and use online banking, or an app to keep an eye on your balance.
If you have an HSBC credit card, we’ll send you reminders and alerts when your payments are almost due or you’re approaching your limit. We all need a nudge sometimes – just try to take action if you get one.
Some providers will offer an introductory 0% interest period on balance transfers and/or purchases. You may be able to find offers for fee-free balance transfers, although these aren’t common.
You’ll still need to make a minimum repayment each month and you’ll have to pay interest once the interest-free period ends.
Explore: What is a balance transfer?
Occasionally you may feel like you have no choice, but try to avoid using your credit card for cash withdrawals. They’re not designed to be used like debit cards and the fees can be large if you’re withdrawing a lot of cash.
Whether you’re planning on using travel money, a debit card or a credit card when spending outside the UK, be aware of the different factors involved, including fees and security.
