New customer credit card offers are special promotions and incentives offered by banks and financial institutions to attract new customers. These offers may include waived annual fees, lower interest rates, higher rewards or an interest-free balance transfer.
Understanding these offers, their terms and conditions, and how to choose the right card for you is important before signing up for a credit card.
New customers vs existing customer credit card offers
New customer credit card offers may include waived annual fees, lower interest rates, higher rewards or interest-free balance transfers. Most banks do not make these introductory offers available to their existing customers.
Common terms, conditions and limitations to be aware of
When considering a new customer credit card offer, it's important to know the terms, conditions, and limitations. These may include time limits on the offer, such as a promotional interest rate or waived annual fee, minimum spending criteria or balance transfer limits, credit score or income requirements, and restrictions on the type of account or card.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Waived annual fees. New customer credit card offers may include waived annual fees, saving you money in the long run.
- Lower interest rates on purchases. Some new customer credit card offers may include lower interest rates, making managing your finances easier.
- Move to debt to a lower interest rate. When used properly, a balance transfer introductory offer can cut your monthly expenses significantly and help you get out of debt.
- Higher rewards. It's common for banks to attract new customers with hefty sign up bonuses.
- Cashback. Some new customer credit card offers may include higher rewards or cashback, providing additional benefits for using the card.
Cons
- Limited time. Many new customer credit card offers have a limited time frame, after which the offer may expire.
- Minimum spending requirements. A spending target may be specified, often within a limited period of time.
- Balance transfer limits. Most banks only allow a certain percentage of the available credit to be used for a balance transfer.
- Minimum requirements for credit score or income. Some new customer credit card offers may have credit score or income requirements that you must meet to qualify for the offer.
FAQs
Why do banks limit some credit card offers to new customers only?
Banks offer these promotions and incentives to attract new customers and increase their customer base.
What banks offer credit cards for new customers only?
Many banks and financial institutions in Australia offer credit cards for new customers. You can check the website of the bank or financial institution or speak with a representative to see if they offer credit card promotions for new customers.
What happens if an existing customer applies for a credit card for new customers?
Existing customers may not qualify for new customer credit card offers and may be subject to different terms and conditions. It's best to speak with a bank or financial institution representative to see if you qualify for the offer or if other options are available.
