Credit cards
Compare credit cards and find your best fit
Check eligibility, explore your tailored deals and apply with confidence for the credit card that suits you best.
Find your ideal credit card in minutes
- Check your eligibility without impacting your credit score
- Explore options from top UK credit card providers
- Choose the right card for your needs
In partnership with our credit reference partners
Credit card deals from top UK providers
Find credit cards from trusted providers matched to your goals: rewards, balance transfer, 0% deals & more.
Grow Your Business is a credit broker, not a lender, for consumer credit.
Our services are provided at no cost to you. We may receive a commission from the companies we refer you to, but this does not affect what you will pay for the product you choose.
Written by the Grow Your Business finance team · Last updated 24 July 2026
How do credit cards work?
Credit cards work by allowing you to borrow money from a bank or card issuer to make purchases — up to an agreed and set credit limit.
Each month, you're billed for any spending on your credit card. This is known as your balance. To avoid interest charges or penalty fees you must make at least the minimum payment — usually a fixed amount set by the card provider or a percentage of your balance.
Any unpaid balance carries over to the next month and accrues interest, based on the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) you were given when you applied. The more you repay, the less interest you're charged.
Most credit cards offer up to 56 days of interest-free spending if you pay off your balance in full each month — so if you clear the full balance each month, it's essentially free to use.
Types of credit cards
Balance transfer credit cards — best for consolidating debt
Balance transfer credit cards allow you to transfer debt from one credit card to another and pay no interest on it for a set period. Some deals give you 0% interest for as long as 38 months, helping you pay down debt without worrying about interest.
Compare balance transfer cards0% purchase credit cards — best for spreading costs
With a 0% purchase credit card, no interest is charged on any debt built up through new purchases you make on the card for a set period — for example 12 months. But you still have to at least pay back the minimum amount requested each month.
Compare 0% purchase credit cardsMoney transfer credit cards — best for clearing overdraft debt
Money transfer credit cards allow you to transfer cash into your current account. This means you can pay off other kinds of debt, such as an expensive overdraft, or use it as a small cash loan.
Compare money transfer cardsCashback and rewards — best for everyday spending
Some credit cards give you rewards or cashback on purchases. They usually have higher interest rates and often charge annual fees, but you can benefit from perks like airmiles and shopping cashback.
Compare cashback and reward cardsCredit building credit cards — best for improving your score
If you have a poor credit score, you might still be able to get a credit building or bad credit credit card. These cards are aimed at those with a less than perfect credit history and can help customers improve their credit score.
Compare credit building cardsTravel credit cards — best for using abroad
Make purchases overseas without the foreign transaction fees charged by standard credit and debit cards. This type of card uses the payment issuer's exchange rate to work out the price in pounds with no added fees.
Compare travel credit cardsHow to choose the right credit card
With so many credit cards out there — each with their own features and costs — choosing the right one can have a real impact. Start by considering your financial goals and spending habits, as well as how you plan to use the card.
If you want to pay down debt, think balance transfer cards
Balance transfer cards can help you reduce interest by moving existing credit card debt to a card with a low or 0% introductory rate. This can make it easier to pay off what you owe faster, as long as you stick to a repayment plan and clear the debt before the rate ends.
If you want to make a big purchase, think 0% purchase cards
0% purchase cards allow you to spread the cost of a large expense over a set period without paying interest. They're useful for planned purchases, provided you can clear the balance before the promotional period ends.
If you want to earn perks, think rewards cards
Rewards cards let you earn points, cashback or other perks on your everyday spending. They work best if you pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest outweighing the rewards.
If you want to improve your credit history, think credit builder cards
Credit builder cards are designed for people with limited or poor credit history. Using one responsibly by keeping balances low and making payments on time can help strengthen your credit score over time.
If you want to spend abroad, think travel cards
Travel cards are designed to reduce the cost of spending overseas, often by offering low or no foreign transaction fees. Some also provide travel-related perks, such as rewards on overseas spending.
If you have bad credit, consider cards designed for bad credit
Cards for bad credit are built to help you access credit when options are limited. They typically come with higher interest rates, so they're best used for small purchases that you can repay in full and on time to rebuild your credit profile.
Before choosing a credit card and jumping into an application, it's a good idea to check your credit score. This helps you find cards you're more likely to be approved for.
Our expert says
“Before applying for a credit card, understand your financial habits and compare terms, fees and rewards. Choose wisely to build credit responsibly and maximise benefits.”
Credit card expert, Grow Your Business
Key things to look out for when comparing credit cards
- APR (Annual Percentage Rate)
The interest rate you'll pay if you don't pay your balance in full each month.
- Credit limit
The maximum amount you can borrow on the card.
- Minimum repayment
The smallest amount you must pay each month; the exact amount is detailed on your monthly statement.
- Annual fees
The yearly cost of holding the card — this isn't always applicable, so check with the provider if you're unsure.
- Other fees
Other potential charges such as late payment fees, foreign transaction fees or cash advance fees.
- Introductory offers
Promotions like 0% interest on purchases or balance transfers, and how long they last.
- Rewards and benefits
Points, cashback, travel perks or other incentives the card may offer.
Unlock credit card deals
See which credit cards you're eligible for in just a few clicks.
How to apply for a credit card in four simple steps
You must be at least 18 years old and a UK resident to apply for a credit card. Acceptance depends on your financial situation. Here's how the application process works:
Research and compare cards
Look for cards that match your needs and compare features like interest rates, fees and rewards.
Complete the application
Fill out the application with your personal information — this will include income and employment details.
Submit and await decision
Submit your application and wait for approval, which can take from a few minutes to a few weeks.
Activate your card
Once approved, you should receive your card and it'll be ready for activation. Remember to use it responsibly.
Credit card advantages and disadvantages
Pros
- Flexibility to spread the cost of purchases over time
- Earn rewards such as points, cashback or air miles
- Extra protection on purchases for when things go wrong
- Helps build your credit profile when used responsibly
Cons
- Can be easy to accumulate high interest debt
- Annual fees, late fees and others may apply
- Accrue interest when not paid in full
- Missed payments can damage your credit score
How Section 75 protects your credit card spending
Thanks to Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, if you're buying something costing £100 or more, up to £30,000, using a credit card to pay for any part of it means the card provider is held jointly liable if things go wrong.
That means you can apply to them for a refund (for the full purchase amount) if the seller lets you down, breaches their contract with you or misrepresents what it's selling. This is especially useful for things like holidays and purchases abroad.
Find out moreStay up to date with the latest credit card offers
Credit card deals and interest rates are constantly shifting — and keeping an eye on the latest offers can help you find a card that fits your financial goals and spending habits.
The current Bank of England base rate is 3.75%, but it's widely expected this will fall further if and when inflation drops. A base rate cut could make borrowing slightly cheaper over time, while a hold or rise might keep credit costs higher. Either way, monitoring how card APRs align with the latest BoE rate decisions can help you choose the right product right now.
FAQs about credit cards
Useful credit card guides
Find out more about how credit cards work with our in-depth guides.
What is APR? How it works and why it matters
Pros and cons of credit cards explained
