What's APR? Basically, the APR or annual percentage rate of a credit card is the combination of low interest rates and finance charges. What's more each credit card has several different APRs. At the minimum they will have a rate for purchases, cash advances, and transfers. Typically, cash advances will carry a higher rate than for purchases or transfers. Transfers usually carry low rates. Sometimes you can even find an APR of 0% for an introductory period.

Are there really zero percent (0%) cards and what does it mean. Lets say you already own a credit card and you've used up most of your credit already. With a 0% APR intro rate credit card, you can transfer your balance without incurring additional interest. The 0% is usually an introductory rate used to entice you to apply and will revert to a higher rate at a later date. This is explained to you at the time of the application.

To entice you to open an account, credit card companies offer introductory and delayed APRs. An introductory rate lasts for a certain period, usually six months to a year. Delayed APRs charge no interest until a certain month. Sounds pretty much the same thing.

If you're planning to make a significant purchase but paying it off before the introductory period is over then yes, having a 0% APR intro rate credit card is the best option for you. Remember, the keyword here is intro - which indicates that this is only something like an introductory offer so dont expect the 0% APR to last forever.

Make sure you know what the APR of the credit card is going to be after the introductory period. If the interest rate is higher than the APR of other credit cards that do not offer 0% APR for a certain period of time AND youre not planning to maximize the 0% APR youre given then maybe, its better to simply go with a low interest credit card.

When shopping for a credit card, it is important to understand the annual percentage rate (APR) to find the best deal for your situation. If you pay off your bill every month, a no fee and moderate APR plan may be best. However, if you take out cash advances, you will want a low APR on that feature.

Some cards also offer tiered rates, which keeps rates low for those that carry a small balance. For example, a card might offer 15% on balances up to $1000 and 18% on balances over $1000.

Which one is better: a low interest APR credit card, a 0% APR credit card or a tier rate credit card? This question would require you to research a bit but since your decision will ultimately affect your finances then its better to put some time aside and do some research, preferably online where it is easier and quicker. You know your credit habits, pick the credit card with the rates that will give you the best deal.

Bruce Walls is the Web Master at http://www.usa-credit-card-guide.com the best site to apply for a credit card online