We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

QUIZ: How Much Do You Know About Your Credit Card?

Help us bust some of the most common financial myths.

shutterstock_465382001 Shutterstock / Africa Studio Shutterstock / Africa Studio / Africa Studio

ARE YOU STILL recovering from the hefty post-Christmas credit card bill you received last month?

Getting a high bill after a big month of spending is probably no surprise, but if interest rates or added charges are increasing your monthly payment, you may decide its time to switch providers.

Whatever your plan, it’s important to know your stuff when it comes to credit cards. After all, the knowledge could potentially save you hundreds in charges (you can check out switchyourbank.ie for an idea of how much you’d save).

So, can you spot financial fact from fiction when it comes to your card? Test your knowledge in the quiz below.

1. What's the lowest possible interest rate you can currently get in Ireland for a credit card, on balance transfer?
Shutterstock
2%
10%

5%
0%
2. What is the range of interest rates (APR) generally charged on purchases by Irish card providers?
Unsplash
19.0%-21.5%
13.8%-22.9%

18.0%-25.0%
17.0%-28.9%
3. What's the best way of comparing credit cards?
Unsplash
Asking around friends and family
Calling up the bank

Using trusted online comparison tools like the one offered by the CCPC
Making an appointment with a financial advisor
4. If you are switching credit card, which of these should you not forget to do?
Shutterstock
Visiting a financial advisor
Keeping the old credit card

Closing your old account (in writing or in person)
Calling your bank manager to explain your decision
5. Can a credit card affect a mortgage application?
Unsplash
No, the mortgage provider can't ask about it
Yes, if there's an unpaid balance each month

Yes, you won't get a mortgage if you have a credit card
Yes, but only if the card has an interest rate of over 15%
6. Do you have to stick with the bank's default settings for a credit card?
Shutterstock
Yes, you can't change anything
No, you can both lower the limit and raise the minimum payment to avoid debt
7. If you get a new card, do you have to pay stamp duty again for 2018?
Shutterstock
Yes, it's the law to pay it for each new card
No, it's possible to transfer your payment
Answer all the questions to see your result!
Shutterstock
You scored out of !
We can't give you too much credit
Whether you're credit card-free, want a credit card or are considering changing provider, be sure to learn about your rights. Read on below to find out more.
Share your result:
Shutterstock
You scored out of !
To your credit, you know a decent amount
Whether or not you own a credit card right now, you certainly understand the way they work. Of course, there's always room to learn something more. Read on below to find out where to go.
Share your result:
Shutterstock
You scored out of !
To your credit, your knowledge is razor sharp
You're no fool - you're able to spot a bad credit card offering from a mile away and know how to find a card that suits your needs. Want to ensure your knowledge is up-to-date? Read on below.
Share your result:

Think you’d be under less financial pressure if you switched your credit card? Switchyourbank.ie has all of the resources you’ll need to decide if it’s the right option for you, along with a comparison table of all the current rates for Irish customers.

Read more: Not happy with your credit card? Here’s how to switch it in 4 easy steps

6 questions everyone should ask about their credit card

Close
11 Comments
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel