The Standard Credit Card

All banks and building societies will offer a standard credit card as part of their range of services. These cards will offer a basic credit card package, with no 'extra benefits'. They provide the primary credit card services, allowing you to purchase goods and services, obtain cash advances and make balance transfers (see Operation of a Credit Card).

Introductory offers, such as a nought percent interest rate on balance transfers and purchases for a limited period are frequently offered to attract new customers. Most cards will allow customers an interest-free period of around fifty-six days, as long as you pay your previous and current month's balance in full and on time. The application criteria for standard credit cards are not usually so stringent, and the card may be offered to anybody who is above the age of 18.

A standard credit card is often the first credit card you are able to obtain. This is because you may not have a credit history and are therefore rarely offered the best nor most complicated deal.