Low-interest credit cards, including many premium-level Platinum and Gold cards, offer some of the best credit card deals available. Low interest cards offer introductory or long-term interest rates below 15%, often with no annual fee and plenty of additional benefits.

Banks won't hand low interest credit cards out to just anyone. These cards are marketed to people who have good-to-excellent credit records, above-average credit risk scores and/or a higher personal income. If you're going to apply for one of these much-coveted cards, be prepared to convince the card issuer that you've earned it!

Before you apply - a few important factors to consider...

• Introductory rates are usually short-term offers, lasting anywhere from a couple of months to a full year. Introductory rates may apply only to new purchases, balance transfers, or if you're lucky, both. Be sure to note any special conditions or fees that may apply to these promotional rates. Also, be aware that the long-term rates shown generally apply only to new purchases; interest rates for balance transfers and cash advances may vary.
• Note whether the APR is variable or fixed. Most cards have variable rates, which means the rate can fluctuate regularly. Fixed-rates can also be raised when interest rates climb, but the changes will not occur regularly and require at least 15 days notice from the card issuer.
• Be aware of annual fees, balance transfer fees, foreign transaction fees, over-the-limit fees, late payment fees, and the myriad of other fees that may apply. Check with your issuer and carefully read the fine print of the offer to determine these numbers and avoid any unpleasant surprises!