Top > Business > 2006 > February > 2006-02-26

Credit Card Rates Up Again

Most people living in the US have at least two separate credit cards. And it is known around the world that US residents tend to end up in astronomical credit card debt by the time they hit their 30`s. The saving grace for these people is having low credit card rates, but lately, this has not been happening. Average credit card rates rose again this week, but, with most every major issuer having implemented increases this year, they may be due for a lull, according to the weekly IndexCreditCards.com Credit Card Monitor.

The average credit card rate for standard, non-reward credit cards jumped to 13.27% this week, up from 13.17% a week ago and 12.60% at the beginning of 2006. Credit cards offering rewards had an average rate of 14.33%, up from 14.26% last week and 13.80% at the beginning of the year. For consumers with the very best credit ratings, the averages are 10.53% and 11.79%, respectively. Credit cards marketed to college students continue to raise their rates as well. The average student credit card rate is now 15.84%, up from 15.77% last week and 15.18% at the beginning of the year.

Business credit card rates rose also, although as a group they continue to offer the lowest rates. The average non-reward business card offers an 11.49% APR, up from 11.43% last week and 11.33% on January 1. Business credit cards offering rewards have an average 13.42% APR, up from 13.36% last week and 13.21% at the year?s start. After a surprising rise in the first month and a half of this year, rates should hold steady for at least a short while,? says Justin McHenry, Research Director of IndexCreditCards.com. ?They almost have to -- everyone?s already raised their rates.?