The AA rewards credit card is issued by MBNA Europe Bank and has some attractive features, particularly if used in conjunction with AA membership. Card holders earn points on every transaction, which are doubled on AA purchases. Points can be redeemed in a variety of ways dependent on consumer choice. One of the best features is the money transfer option which allows card holders to effectively take a 12 month loan for just 4%. Additionally for convenience contactless payments are available on purchases under £15.
Balance transfers and money transfers are available at 0% APR for 12 months, whilst purchases are given 10 months at 0% APR. After the introductory periods differing interest rates kick in. Purchases attract an APR of 16.9%; balance transfers 18.9%; money transfers 20.9%. Cash advances have no introductory rate and attract an APR of 27.9% from the moment of withdrawal.
All promotional rates are subject to immediate withdrawal if the terms and conditions are breached by paying late or exceeding the credit limit. Associated fees are 3% for balance transfers; 4% for money transfers; 3% with a minimum £3 for cash advances; and 2.99% for foreign currency transactions. Penalty charges are charged at a flat £12.
The rewards programme associated with the AA credit card is excellent. All spending earns 1 point per £2, which is doubled when AA motoring products are purchased. This offer includes fuel and AA motoring services. AA card holding members who also use the AA credit card earn 1 point per £1 spent and 2 points when purchasing AA products. Information on AA member benefits and how to become an AA member is available here. Credit card applicants should produce their AA membership details at the time of applying.
A set of nifty rewards point calculators are provided on the AA credit card website enabling consumers to do a quick point calculation based on average monthly spending on fuel or other spending. Rewards points can be redeemed for a variety of goods or services including cash back credited to the credit card statement.
Card holders may choose to redeem points for AA products including breakdown cover, European breakdown cover and home insurance. Alternatively an excellent choice of vouchers is available from major high street names such as Marks and Spencer and Boots. In addition there is a choice of experience days to elect for which include spa days or a day of Lamborghini driving, sure to appeal to those interested in classic cars. Other rewards include products such as car accessories, travel accessories and home products.
The card has three primary attractive features. These are the money transfer facility for just 4% which offers the opportunity for a low cost 12 month loan; the 10 months 0% APR on purchases which is ideal for those who routinely carry a balance; and the excellent rewards programme that offers such a varied selection of rewards. AA members can particularly benefit by carrying the AA rewards credit card in conjunction with their membership card.