Control your credit card and reap the benefits

Mentioning the word ‘cashback' in the title of a financial product is a sure way to catch the eye of a potential customer. The prospect of receiving a payment from your lender or provider can be both refreshing and appealing to many customers, particularly those looking for credit cards.

Barclaycard recently launched its competitively priced Cashback Mastercard, which gives the cardholder the opportunity to earn 1% cash back on the first £20,000 spent each year, with effect from the account opening.

The launch of new cash back cards, may suggest a new period of growth in the cashback credit card market. However, it is imperative that cardholders are fully aware of the terms and conditions of their card.

Louise Holmes, spokesperson at Moneyfacts.co.uk commented: "Be confident that you can pay off the balance in full each month and not just pay the minimum repayment. If monthly payments are missed regularly, any benefits such as cash back or introductory deals which rely on good account conduct, will be removed by the provider.

Avoid withdrawing cash on your credit card, as the interest charged can be notoriously high compared to making purchases. If you do have short term cash needs, then it may be worth asking your bank the rate they charge to dip into your overdraft, as this is likely to work out cheaper.

If managed efficiently, customers can enjoy a host of benefits from their card including cashback, vouchers, air miles and interest rebates".