Editor's Review:
The First PREMIER Bank MasterCard was specifically created for individuals with not so perfect credit that are looking to improve their credit rating while experiencing the freedom and flexibility associated with having a credit card.
Despite being a credit card designed for individuals with poor or limited credit, the First PREMIER Bank MasterCard does have its perks. For instance, it offers a variety of Internet account related services and fraud and security protection services. Perhaps its best feature, however, is the fact that it reports the cardholder's transactions to the four credit bureaus. As a result, the cardholder can establish credit or help repair damaged credit. The card also has a relatively low APR, particularly when compared to similar cards.
As with most cards designed for individuals with poor cards, there are a number of fees associated with the First PREMIER Bank MasterCard. For example, cardholders must pay an account set-up fee of $29 and a program fee of $95. There is also a $48 annual fee and a monthly participation fee of $6. In total, a cardholder will pay $244 for the first year of membership. Each subsequent year will cost $120. The annual fee, program fee, the first month's participation fee, and account set-up fee will all be added to the first statement. These fees are subject to finance charges and are counted against the total available credit. Therefore, the cardholder's available credit is limited until these fees are paid.
The APR for purchases made with the First PREMIER Bank MasterCard is a low fixed 9.90%. Cash advances are subject to a fixed 19.90% rate. Cardholders that fail to make their payment two times in a row or that fail to make their payment on time two times within a six-month period, however, will see their APR raised to a fixed 19.90% for purchases.
The minimum credit limit a cardholder may receive with the card is $250 and the maximum is $1,000. Cardholders that wish to have a credit increase must pay a $25 fee. Those that exceed their credit limit are also assessed a $25 fee. Aside from potentially raising the APR on purchases, late payments result in a $25 fee.
(Review Date: January 14, 2012)