Why is a Credit Card Important in Today’s Time?
Nowadays, every other person is either using a credit card or planning to get one. Why? Because a smart credit card gives you an interest-free credit period of up to 45 days. Meaning, if you spent ₹10,000 on 1st July, then the actual payment will have to be made around 15th August – without any interest!
From your home’s daily groceries to electricity bills, OTT recharge, rent, or even travel bookings – everything can be smartly managed with a credit card. And on every expense, you also get cashback or reward points.
Should You Take a Credit Card or Not?
If you are a salaried professional, or running a small business, and you have regular expenses, then you should definitely take a credit card. With it:
- In emergencies, money arrangement becomes easier
- Cashback or reward is received on every expense
- Credit score builds up, making it easy to take loans in the future
Types of Credit Cards – Cashback vs Reward
Cashback Credit Card – For Whom?
This card is best for those people who make regular monthly expenses on groceries, bills, fuel, etc.
Example:
If you shopped for ₹1,000 and got 10% cashback, then ₹100 was returned to you. In the next bill, you will have to pay only ₹900.
Top Cashback Cards of 2025:
| Card Name | Cashback | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| HDFC Swiggy Credit Card | 10% on Swiggy, 5% on groceries | Foodies |
| Axis Ace Credit Card | 5% on Google Pay recharges & bills | Daily Recharges |
| Amazon Pay ICICI Card | 5% (Prime), 3% (non-Prime) | Amazon Shopping |
Reward Points Credit Card – When to Choose?
If you track every expense and know how to redeem rewards smartly, then a reward points card is the best.
Benefit:
1 point = value from ₹0.25 to ₹1. With points, travel booking, gift vouchers, or even cash redemption can be done.
Top Reward Cards of 2025:
| Card | Rewards | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| HDFC Regalia Gold | 4 points/₹150 | Travel & lifestyle |
| SBI SimplyClick | 10X on online spends | Online Shoppers |
| Axis Magnus | Premium rewards & lounge access | Frequent Travellers |
How to Get ₹50,000 Credit Card Limit?
You will get ₹50,000 credit limit when:
- Your monthly income is ₹25,000+
- CIBIL score is 700+ (CIBIL is a type of credit health report)
- Your existing loans are fewer or being repaid on time
- You have previously taken any loan or EMI (and repaid on time)
Tips:
- If you are new to the credit system, take an “entry-level” card like SBI SimplySave, ICICI Amazon Card – use it timely, and after 6 months, send an upgrade request.
- Add income proof (ITR, bank statement) whenever you apply, limit improves.
How to Apply for a Credit Card?
How to successfully apply for a credit card?
Follow these 5 steps:
- Choose the right card – Cashback or Reward, according to your need
- Go to the official website – like HDFC, Axis, SBI or comparison sites like CardExpert.in / Paisabazaar
- Fill application – Aadhaar, PAN and basic personal info
- CIBIL score will be checked – approval instantly or within 24 hrs
- Complete Video KYC – sign a paper, show PAN, done!
Pro Tip:
Platforms like Swiggy, Tata Neu, Amazon also provide in-app credit cards – applying becomes even easier. Only with phone number, PAN, and address approval is received.
What is the Minimum Salary to Apply for a Credit Card?
- Private job: starts from ₹15,000–₹25,000/month
- Government employee: stable income of ₹12,000+ is enough
- Self-employed: need to show minimum ₹2.5L annual income (via ITR)
Note: The higher the salary, the higher the card you will get (premium category, higher limit, lounge access, etc.)
Credit Card Activation – First Task After Approval
As soon as you receive the card, it has to be activated. Activation process:
- Install bank app (like HDFC, Axis, etc.)
- Add credit card via PAN or customer ID
- Verify OTP and set card PIN
- Done – now you can use the card!
Safety Precautions: Smart Way to Use Credit Card
- Use only 30–50% of your credit limit (don’t fully use the limit, CIBIL score drops)
- Always make full payment before due date – not just minimum due, full amount
- Don’t forget to redeem cashback/rewards
- Don’t share card with anyone – especially PIN or CVV
FAQs – Common Questions Related to Credit Card
I want a zero annual fee card, which one is best?
Ans: Amazon Pay ICICI and Axis MyZone are good options for zero/lifetime free.
I want the best card for travel?
Ans: Axis Magnus or HDFC Regalia Gold are perfect for travel points & lounge access.
Can I take both cashback and reward card?
Ans: Yes! One cashback for groceries and one reward for travel – smart combo.
Conclusion – Be Smart, Even While Choosing a Card
Credit card is not just a way of shopping, it is a financial tool which, if used properly, can also make you earn money. Cashback, reward points, offers – everything is for you.
But remember one rule:
Use the benefits of the card, not fall into the trap of debt.
Choose the right card, make payment at the right time, and manage life smartly.
