If you’re considering a credit card, you’ve probably come across the Household credit card offer.  This refers to the credit card product offered by Household Bank, a nationwide financial institution.

Why Consider a Household Credit Card?

The household credit card is attractive for a variety of reasons, including:

1. Ease of Acceptance: The Household bank is known for taking some risks on those with less than stellar credit.  Of course, cardholders do pay for that privilege:  the variable interest rates on the household credit card can be as high as 29.49%.
2. Quick Response: Believe it or not, it is possible to get an initial response on your application in just a couple minutes at the Household site.  And your first inquiry will not impact your credit rating in any way.
3. Personalized Approach: Many people seek out the Household credit card because the issuer will customize the terms of the card to better suit your credit and spending situation.  So, for example, if you have OK credit you may be able to get a card with a lower interest rate.  Or you may be able to get a card with a lower annual fee and slightly higher interest rate.
4. Introductory Rates: The household credit card also offers a 0% introductory APR for six months.  Note that savvy consumers will be careful with these types of offers, being sure to pay back the amount owed under the introductory agreement before the interest rate jumps to a higher amount.
5. Cash Back: Another great feature of the Household credit card is that it offers cash back on purchases.  Again, this offer is useful only for those who utilize it wisely.  For example, the 2% cash back is not very useful if you consistently carry a balance.  You’ll find yourself paying significantly more in interest and fees than you’ll ever get in cash back.
6. Security with a National Bank: Finally, one of the key attractions of the household credit card is its relationship with internationally known HSBC bank.  If you’re looking for a card with some stability it’s always best to go through an organization that has a long-standing positive reputation.

How do I Apply for a Household Credit Card?

The best way to get started is by going directly to the Household bank site at www.householdbank.com.  Here you’ll fill out a brief application to get an initial response online.  While the bank will need to get more information from you in order to actually issue a card, it can be reassuring to get that first “yes” — or at least helpful to know that the first reaction is “no.”

What Else Can I Do on the Household Bank Site?

Should you be fortunate enough to get a household credit card, you’ll be able to manage all your interactions with the bank through their online interface, including:

• Bill payments
• Requests for credit increases
• Checking on the status of your application
• Integration with other HSBC accounts

In short, if you’re looking for a credit card provider specializing in less-than-fabulous credit, the Household credit card may be the way to go.