Online shopping is rapidly growing in popularity. Being able to shop from home, easily, and often with attractive offers, has become commonplace. But did you know that using the right credit card can make your online shopping even more rewarding? Yes! Many credit cards are specifically designed for online shoppers, offering cashback, reward points, discounts, and many other benefits. In this blog post, we will detail the best credit cards for online shopping in India, so you can choose the right card for your needs.
Why Use a Credit Card for Online Shopping?
There are several benefits to using a credit card for online shopping:
- Cashback and Reward Points: Many credit cards offer cashback or reward points on online purchases. These points can later be redeemed for discounts, gift vouchers, or to reduce your statement balance.
- Discounts and Offers: Credit card companies often partner with various e-commerce websites to offer exclusive discounts and offers. By taking advantage of these offers, you can save a significant amount.
- No-Cost EMI: If you want to buy an expensive item, many credit cards offer the option of no-cost EMI. This allows you to pay in easy installments without any interest.
- Purchase Protection: Some credit cards offer protection against online fraud. If any unauthorized transactions occur on your card, you can report it and get your money back.
- Improved Credit Score: If you use your credit card responsibly and pay your bills on time, it will improve your credit score.
How to Choose the Best Credit Card for Online Shopping?
When choosing a credit card for online shopping, it is important to consider a few things:
- Fees and Charges: First, find out about the credit card’s joining fee, annual fee, and other charges. Some cards are lifetime free, while others require you to pay a fee each year.
- Cashback and Reward Points: See how much cashback or reward points the credit card offers for online shopping. Some cards offer different reward points in different categories.
- Discounts and Offers: Find out which e-commerce websites the credit card company has partnered with to offer discounts and offers. If you shop more from a particular website, choosing a card with offers related to that website will be beneficial.
- No-Cost EMI: If you often buy expensive items, see if the credit card offers a no-cost EMI option.
- Credit Limit: Choose a credit limit that suits your needs. A higher credit limit allows you to make larger transactions easily, but it is also important to use it responsibly.
- Other Benefits: Some credit cards also offer airport lounge access, complimentary insurance, and other benefits.
Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping in India
Here is a list of some popular credit cards that can be beneficial for online shopping. The features and benefits of these cards may vary, so compare them according to your needs and choose the right card:
- HDFC Regalia Credit Card: This card comes with premium benefits, such as airport lounge access, golf access, and dining offers. It also offers good reward points for online shopping.
- SBI Card PRIME: This card is also a good option for online shopping. It offers cashback, reward points, and discount offers.
- ICICI Bank Amazon Pay Credit Card: If you shop more from Amazon, this card can be beneficial for you. It offers cashback on Amazon.
- Axis Bank Flipkart Credit Card: This card is best for Flipkart users. It offers cashback and discounts on Flipkart.
- Citi Bank Cashback Credit Card: This card is good for cashback. It offers cashback on online and offline shopping.
Comparison of Different Credit Cards
To compare different credit cards, you can use online credit card comparison websites. These websites provide you with information about the features, benefits, and charges of different cards, making it easy for you to choose the right card.
Conclusion
By choosing the right credit card, you can make your online shopping even more rewarding. Choose the right card according to your needs, spending habits, and favorite e-commerce websites. Use your credit card responsibly and pay your bills on time so that you can maintain a good credit score.
FAQs
- Q: Is it necessary to take a separate credit card for online shopping? A: It is not necessary, but if you do a lot of online shopping, a credit card designed for online shopping can give you more benefits.
- Q: How should I apply for a credit card? A: You can apply for a credit card by visiting the bank’s website or branch. Some e-commerce websites also offer you the option to apply for a credit card.
- Q: How to pay the credit card bill? A: You can pay your credit card bill through online banking, mobile banking, or by visiting a bank branch.
- Q: What happens if I don’t pay the credit card bill on time? A: If you do not pay the credit card bill on time, you will have to pay a late payment fee and your credit score may also be affected.
- Q: Should I withdraw cash from a credit card? A: Withdrawing cash from a credit card is generally expensive, as it attracts higher interest. Therefore, withdrawing cash from a credit card should be avoided.
- Q: Is it beneficial to have more than one credit card? A: Having more than one credit card has its advantages and disadvantages. If you use different cards for different purposes, it can be beneficial. However, you will have to pay all the card bills on time, otherwise your credit score may be affected.
- Q: What is a credit score and why is it important? A: A credit score is a number that represents your credit history and reflects your creditworthiness. Having a good credit score makes it easier for you to get loans and credit cards.
- Q: How can I check my credit score? A: You can check your credit score online from credit bureau websites like CIBIL, Equifax, and Experian.