when does the 0% start from?

aimo

just got a new credit card and wondered when the 0% actually starts? is it when you apply or when you first use the card?

qwackerz

On my letter it just says...(After you open your account)

So i think its from when you call and activate the card......................

mrmajika

The rules will differ from card to card.

At the very latest, it will be at the point of activation. I have never heard of a provider waiting until you purchase on the card and starting the 12 months from then.

It might even be from the point of application. I think this is the case with Cap1 cards.

YorkshireBoy

qwackerz wrote: »

On my letter it just says...(After you open your account)

So i think its from when you call and activate the card......................

An account is usually 'opened' when they receive the signed credit agreement. This may be at the end of the online application (if you electronically sign it), or when they physically receive the posted document.

Sometimes though, the 0% starts from first use. For example, the HSBC card used to give 0% for 9 months on BT's. Because you could delay the BT by up to 30 days, the 0% end date could be up to 10 months after account opening.

Activating the card is a separate issue altogether. I once ran a 9 month stooz without ever activating the card (simply because I knew I was never going to spend on it).

As Al Mac says, though, it's always best to ring them and ask (when it ends, which is more important ).