Know how to instantly activate and use your Credit Card

Credit Cards continue to be one of the most important financial tools that consumers can leverage to meet several goals. They can enhance your lifestyle and meet your aspirations. One major barrier to owning a Credit Card was the complex and long-winded application process. However, those worries are in the past. With digital innovation, the application process for a Credit Card has become much more streamlined, and you can apply and activate your card within minutes.

Top benefits

Owning a Credit Card comes with several benefits:

Build your credit score and unlock access to superior loan products with lower interests, EMIs, and tenures. Financial institutions gauge your creditworthiness based on this number, which ranges between 300 and 900.
Your Credit Card allows you to earn rewards such as points, cashback, and travel miles on your spending. Avail exclusive deals on dining out, shopping, travel, and other experiences.
During an emergency, you can withdraw from your card and pay it back as per your card payment cycle.
The EMI feature allows you to stagger payments for products and services that cost larger amounts. Choose the structure as per your cash flow cycles, and make monthly payments.

Also Read: 6 benefits of using a Credit Card

Apply for your Credit Card online

Today, you can activate Credit Cards online seamlessly via Internet banking on your laptop, desktop, or tablet. Alternatively, you can access mobile banking by downloading the app of your bank. You no longer need to make a physical trip to the bank.

Just visit the bank's website or app, carefully read through the instructions on each card, choose the one that suits your needs and apply online by filling out the application form. Your bank will contact you and take the process forward.

Choosing the right Credit Card

With such a variety of cards available in the market, you may feel overwhelmed when choosing the right one. There are several factors to keep in mind:

The rewards vary from card to card, so choose based on your needs and interests. For instance, if you dine out a lot, ensure your card offers exclusive dining-out deals. If you travel by air significantly, choose a card with travel miles.
Make sure that the credit limit on your card is in alignment with your income and spending needs. If your salary is much lower than the credit limit, then your credit score will suffer due to limited usage. Similarly, if your credit limit is much lower than your income and expenses, you may lose out on the benefits of card usage.
Make sure that the fees associated with your card are affordable. For instance, your card may have a joining fee and an annual fee. Understand the penalty charges for late payments, and minimum payments.

Smart tips to use your Credit Card

Here are some ways to help you get the most from your card, and increase your credit score:

Leverage the benefits of online banking to facilitate all card repayments, promptly. For instance, auto debits ensure that you always pay bills on time.
Make sure your payment cycles align with your cash flows, so you have enough cash to make full payments. Avoid the minimum payment option, as it is accompanied by a rise in interest rates, which will increase the cost of all purchases.
Never leave your card unattended, and ensure that it is in your possession at all times.
Try and put as much of your monthly and annual spend on your Credit Card, to reap the full benefits of the rewards programme. Rewards translate to free money.

Also Read: 6 Credit Card Mistakes to Avoid

In conclusion

Today, you can apply for Credit Cards online and start shopping within minutes. Choose from Axis Bank’s wide range of Credit Cards to suit a wide range of customer needs. Apply for your Credit Card of choice online, and unlock access to perks like reward points, cashback, fuel waivers, lounge access, and other rewards. Don’t forget to practice positive consumer behaviour and keep building your credit score.

Disclaimer: This article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily constitute the views of Axis Bank Ltd. and its employees. Axis Bank Ltd. and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision