It used to be that the best credit cards were reserved for those with perfect credit and consumers with less than perfect credit were stuck paying an interest rate of 20 percent or more. Nowadays, thanks to the increasingly-competitive credit card market, low interest credit cards are being made available to those who don't necessarily have spotless credit histories.
Star Reviews decided to compare low interest credit cards for the purpose of creating comprehensive low interest credit card reviews. Orchard Bank Platinum MasterCard, a low interest card for those without a perfect credit score, was one of the credit cards we looked into. The findings of our experience are outlined in the review below.About Orchard Bank Platinum MasterCardOrchard Bank Platinum MasterCard is the perfect solution for consumers who have suffered from bruises to their credit reports. By offering low interest and a low annual fee to those with less than perfect credit, Orchard Bank Platinum MasterCard is leveling the credit card playing field.
Website Navigation:The website for Orchard Bank Platinum MasterCard was simple and easy to navigate. During our visit, we were presented with the opportunity to chat with a live representative. No other credit card company we researched offered this assistance during the application process.
Star Reviews' Favorite Feature: The fact that you don't need perfect credit to get a low interest rate makes this credit card one of our favorites.
Features:
- Online account access.
- Purchase protection.
- Emergency credit card replacement.
- Lost and stolen credit card reporting.
- No liability for unauthorized transactions.
- Choice of payment due dates.
Rewards:
Orchard Bank Platinum MasterCard does not offer a rewards program.
Introductory Offers:
There are currently no introductory offers for this card.
Standard Terms:
- 14.90% variable APR.
- The APR for cash advances is based on the prime rate and the cardholder's credit history.
- Annual fee varies from $39 to $84 depending on credit history.
- No added cost for additional cardholders.
- 25-day grace period.
- $30 late payment fee on balances up to $1,000, $35 on balances above $1,000.
- $30 over-the-limit fee.
- Cash advance fee of 5% or $5 (whichever is greater).
Customer Support:
Orchard Bank offers customer support via email, phone, an FAQ database and instant chat. We found the company's phone support to be very helpful and our call was answered within just a few minutes. Access to chat was instantaneous as well. Our email question, however, went unanswered. We sent our email request via the online website form. We did receive an email back, but it stated that because we had not logged in to the website to send our request (you must be a card holder to log in) they were unable to answer our question.
Upside:
Low interest, potential for low annual fee, lenient credit requirements.
Downside:
The annual fee can be quite high ($84) if your credit is significantly blemished.