Help for guy new to the credit card world?

lc155

Hey guys,

Recently decided to get into the whole credit card world, as I know how useful they can be when used responsibly.

I'm 19 and have a part time job whilst studying, and I did some looking and it seems I could get a barclaycard beginner credit card or one of the Halifax cards (from what I've seen). My question is, how much does the choice of bank affect me? I've heard some nasty things about barclay's customer services, and multiple issues with them. Would HBOS/Halifax be a safer choice?

As it would appear, I am quite ignorant and my google fu is failing me, so any info would be appreciated. Thanks,

jason1231972

lc155 wrote: »

Hey guys,

Recently decided to get into the whole credit card world, as I know how useful they can be when used responsibly.

I'm 19 and have a part time job whilst studying, and I did some looking and it seems I could get a barclaycard beginner credit card or one of the Halifax cards (from what I've seen). My question is, how much does the choice of bank affect me? I've heard some nasty things about barclay's customer services, and multiple issues with them. Would HBOS/Halifax be a safer choice?

As it would appear, I am quite ignorant and my google fu is failing me, so any info would be appreciated. Thanks,

Who do you actually bank with? If it's Barclays, consider them first. If it's Hfx, consider them first. If it's neither, have a looksy what your own bank may be able to offer you. At age 19 with a limited income and (non-existent?) credit history, you might run into difficulties being accepted, hence why your own bank may be your best bet. Sorry to put a downer on things, I don't mean to, and you may be accepted by both or either, but I'm very much into the 'own bank...' theory.

The_pc_tech

Yep, Barclaycard Customer Service is the pits, used to have a card with them but got rid after useless customer service.

Had dealings with them again recently as an Egg card I had was sold to them when Citigroup sold Egg banking which they acquired.

CS still just as bad.

Halifax aren't too bad, have a current account I use as a 'bill account' with them and they've always been helpful.

Maestro.

I have the impression that HBOS cards are easy (for the prime market) to get - is this just my imagination or is it true?

lc155

I'm with clydesdale for my current account, to clarify. I had heard HBOS cards were easy, and that yeah, barclaycard CS is the pits, and combined with their tendency for mistakes, will probably ruin me mentally.

Maestro.

lc155 wrote: »

I'm with clydesdale for my current account, to clarify. I had heard HBOS cards were easy, and that yeah, barclaycard CS is the pits, and combined with their tendency for mistakes, will probably ruin me mentally.

i'm with Clydesdale for my current account as well, and despite having largely great history with them, turned me down for their CC instantly as if I was a new customer when they credit checked me. You bet your !!! I appealed, but I haven't heard back yet.

lc155

Hmm, well, not too hopeful, but I'll apply for the Clydesdale one.

Failing that, how is the CS on Halifax? Just as abysmal as Barlcaycard?