What is a lifetime free credit card
The concept of a "lifetime free credit card" might sound too good to be true, but it is a reality that a few credit card providers offer in India. A lifetime free credit card means that cardholders can enjoy the privileges of a credit card without bearing any fees.
A lifetime free credit card i.e. credit card with no joining or annual fees is ideal for individuals who are new to the credit card world or are using a credit card for the first time. This category of free credit cards is particularly well-suited for beginners who are at the initial stages of their professional journey or have not previously engaged in any form of credit transactions.
Additionally, individuals who prefer not to incur any charges for their credit card usage can find lifetime free cards to be a suitable option. Although most credit cards in this category typically offer basic benefits and often come with a modest rewards rate, there are a select few that provide substantial value.
Differences between no-annual-fee credit cards and lifetime free credit cards
Although they might sound similar, there are some differences between no-annual-fee credit cards and lifetime free credit cards. Here are the key differences:
No-annual-fee credit cards:
- May have a joining fee
- No annual fee for the first year
- The annual fee is charged from second year onwards
- May offer bonus rewards or cashback on spends
Lifetime free credit cards:
- No joining fees
- No annual fee for the entire lifetime of the card
- May have minimum spend requirements to maintain the lifetime free status
- May offer lower rewards or cashback compared to annual fee cards
Choosing between the two types of credit cards depends on your spending habits and preferences. If you are a frequent spender and want to maximise rewards, a credit card with an annual fee card may be a better choice. If you prefer a hassle-free, low-cost option, a lifetime free card may be suitable.
Features and benefits of no annual fee credit cards
Here are some of the key features and benefits of having a credit card with no annual fee.
- Zero annual fee: As the name suggests, these cards come with no annual charge, offering savings right from the start.
- Basic rewards: Many no annual fee cards offer rewards, including cashback, points, or discounts on essential spending categories like groceries and fuel.·
- Credit building: These cards are great for building or improving your credit history, helping you qualify for premium cards in the future.
- Interest-free period: Enjoy an interest-free grace period on purchases when you pay your monthly bill in full, making it easier to manage your finances.
- Online access: Manage your account, track expenses, and pay bills conveniently through online banking.
- Economical choice: No annual fee means more money in your pocket for essential expenses or savings.
- Accessible for all: These cards are accessible to a broader range of individuals, including students and first-time credit card users.
- Low-risk entry: With no annual fee, you can test the credit card waters without significant financial commitment.
- Stress-free management: Avoid the pressure of accumulating annual fees and focus on using your card wisely.
- Flexibility: Tailor your no annual fee card to your spending habits, from travel to dining, and beyond.
Eligibility criteria for No Annual Fee credit cards
Here are the general eligibility criteria to apply for no-annual-fee credit cards:
Criteria |
Details |
Minimum Age |
21 years |
Credit Score |
750 and above |
Income Source |
Regular income |
Employment Status |
Employment or self-employment proof |
Proof of Address & Identity |
Required |
Repayment History |
Good repayment history on previous loans and credit card bills |
Documents required for lifetime free credit cards
Lifetime free credit cards are a great option for people who want to enjoy the benefits of using a credit card without having to pay an annual fee. However, before you apply for a lifetime free credit card, you need to make sure that you have all the necessary documents in order. Here are some of the key documents that you will need to apply for a lifetime free credit card:
Document |
Details |
Proof of Identity |
Aadhaar card, passport, or driving license |
Proof of Address |
Electricity bill, telephone bill, or any other valid address proof |
Proof of Income |
Salary slips, bank statements, or income tax returns |
PAN Card |
Copy of PAN card for tax identification |
How to find the right lifetime free credit card?
Here are some tips on how to find the right lifetime free credit card:
- Check the rewards and cashback offers
- Assess the credit limit offered
- Understand the interest rates and charges
- Look for additional benefits such as travel insurance, fuel surcharge waiver, and reward points
- Compare the fees and charges with other cards
- Check the eligibility criteria and documents required for application
- Read user reviews and ratings of the credit card issuer
- Research on the credit card issuer's customer service and support
By considering these factors, consumers can find the right lifetime free credit card that suits their needs and spending habits.
How can you get a lifetime free credit card
The lifetime free credit card is quite a tremendous deal. But how can you obtain one? The process is straightforward, and it can potentially save you a significant amount of money over the years.
The foundation of a lifetime free credit card is the absence of an annual fee. Conventional credit cards typically come with annual fees, which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand rupees. These fees cover administrative costs, maintenance, and reward programs.
However, a lifetime free credit card allows you to make your credit card free for your lifetime by spending Rs. 50,000 annually, which waives the annual fee, making it a free lifetime card.
For example, Bajaj Finserv offers co-branded credit card variants with the options of first-year-free, which means you can get a credit card zero joining fee. Another credit card benefit offered is that if you spend a certain amount annually, your annual fee will get waived off making it free for the next year.
While Rs. 50,000 may seem too much, remember that this is a yearly spending threshold, which is less than Rs. 4,500 a month. Also, using your credit cards regularly and making timely payments significantly help your credit score. You can easily make these spends on things like groceries, utility bills, household items, clothes, gadgets, and more and make your credit card practically free for a lifetime by getting next year’s annual fee waived.
Which credit cards don’t charge annual fee?
A variety of credit cards offer the convenience of swiping without burdening you with an annual charge. No annual fee credit cards can be a great option for those who are looking to save money on credit card fees. These cards usually offer the same benefits and features as other credit cards, but without the added expense of an annual fee.
You can check with your credit card provider and apply for a lifetime free credit card. Bajaj Finserv co-branded credit cards offer the benefit of waiving off the annual fee if you spend a certain minimum amount annually, say Rs. 75,000 or Rs. 1 lakh.
When searching for a credit card with no annual fee, it’s important to look at other fees, such as interest rates and late payment fees. Some cards may have higher interest rates or other fees to make up for the lack of an annual fee.
How to maximise no-annual-fee credit card benefits?
No-annual-fee credit cards are an attractive option for those looking for a credit card without the burden of an annual fee. Maximising the benefits of these cards requires careful planning and management. Here are some tips on how to maximise the benefits of no annual fee credit cards:
- Utilise the rewards and cashback programs.
- Use the card for regular expenses and bills.
- Pay the bill on time to avoid interest charges.
- Consider balance transfer offers to reduce interest rates.
- Monitor the credit score regularly.
- Use mobile apps and online tools to track expenses and payments.
- Look for additional benefits such as purchase protection and extended warranties.
- Compare the benefits with other credit cards to ensure maximum savings.
By following these tips, consumers can make the most of their no-annual-fee credit cards and manage their expenses efficiently.
How to apply for no annual fee credit cards online
You can apply for no annual fee credit cards by Bajaj Finserv by applying for our co-branded credit cards. Here’s the process to apply for Bajaj Finserv RBL Credit Card:
- Enter your 10-digit mobile number and click on ‘APPLY’.
- Verify the OTP sent to your phone.
- Fill in the application form with your basic details such as your gender, full name, PAN, date of birth, residential address, and email ID.
- Click on ‘PROCEED’ to know your approved credit card offer and card limit.
- In case you do not have an offer, we will record your interest and notify you when an offer is available.
- If you have an offer, your credit limit will be displayed on the screen.
- Click on ‘GET IT NOW’ and enter your mother’s name, father’s name, and residential address.
- Now click on ‘PROCEED’ and enter the OTP sent to your phone to validate the application.
- Select ‘YES’ for E-KYC and click on ‘PROCEED’.
- After your application is successfully submitted, you will be redirected to the RBL Bank’s website for further verification and approval.