NDSU Visa® Rewards from Commerce Bank Review

In today’s financial landscape, choosing the right credit card can significantly impact your financial health and lifestyle. The NDSU Visa® Rewards from Commerce Bank offers a variety of attractive features that cater to different spending habits. This review will delve into the various aspects of this card, analyzing its benefits, drawbacks, and overall value proposition.

NDSU Visa® Rewards from Commerce Bank Key Takeaways

Before diving into the detailed review, here are some key takeaways about the NDSU Visa® Rewards from Commerce Bank:
– Cashback Rewards: Earn 3% cash back on streaming, cable, and ridesharing services, 2% on gas and restaurants, and 1% on all other eligible purchases.
– Introductory APR: Enjoy a 1.99% introductory APR for the first six monthly billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers.
– Variable APR: Post-introductory purchase APR ranges from 20.49% to 30.49%, which is on the higher side.
– No Annual Fee: This card does not carry an annual fee, making it a cost-effective choice for many consumers.
– Credit Score Requirement: Suitable for individuals with good to excellent credit scores, ranging between 670 and 799.

NDSU Visa® Rewards from Commerce Bank Pros and Cons

Pros

1. No Annual Fee: One of the most attractive features is the absence of an annual fee, making it cost-effective for everyday use.
2. Generous Cashback Rewards: The card offers 3% cashback on streaming, cable, and ridesharing services, 2% on gas and restaurants, and 1% on all other eligible purchases.
3. Introductory APR: The 1.99% introductory APR for the first six billing cycles on both purchases and balance transfers is a significant advantage for those looking to make large purchases or consolidate debt.
4. Fraud Protection: Extensive fraud protection features add a layer of security to your transactions.
5. Purchase Protection: Offers purchase protection on eligible items, which can be a lifesaver in case of theft or damage.
6. Good for Various Credit Scores: Suitable for individuals with good to excellent credit scores, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Cons

1. High Variable APR: The variable APR, ranging from 20.49% to 30.49%, is relatively high, which can add up if you carry a balance.
2. Foreign Transaction Fee: This card charges a foreign transaction fee, making it less ideal for international travelers.
3. Penalty Fees: Late payment fees can go up to $40, and there’s a steep penalty APR of 32.49%.

NDSU Visa® Rewards from Commerce Bank Benefits

Cashback Rewards

The NDSU Visa® Rewards card offers a tiered cashback system that is particularly beneficial for specific categories of spending:
– 3% Cash Back on Streaming, Cable, and Ridesharing Services: This is an excellent feature for tech-savvy consumers who frequently use services like Netflix, Hulu, Uber, and Lyft. Over time, these cashback rewards can add up significantly, making it a worthwhile benefit.
– 2% Cash Back on Gas and Restaurants: For those who spend a considerable amount on dining out and fuel, this card provides a decent return on those expenditures.
– 1% Cash Back on All Other Eligible Purchases: While this is the standard rate for many cashback cards, it ensures that you are rewarded for every dollar you spend.

Introductory APR

The 1.99% introductory APR for the first six monthly billing cycles is a standout feature. This can be particularly useful for:
– Large Purchases: If you plan to make a significant purchase, the low introductory APR can help you finance it affordably.
– Balance Transfers: Those looking to consolidate high-interest debt can benefit from the low introductory APR on balance transfers.

Fraud Protection

Security is a major concern for credit card users, and the NDSU Visa® Rewards card excels in this area:
– Zero Liability Protection: You are not held responsible for unauthorized transactions, which can provide peace of mind.
– Fraud Alerts: Receive instant alerts for suspicious activities, allowing you to react quickly and prevent potential fraud.

Purchase Protection

This card also offers purchase protection, which can be a significant benefit for consumers:
– Coverage for Theft and Damage: Eligible items purchased with the card are covered against theft and damage for a certain period, usually 90 days from the date of purchase.
– Extended Warranty: Some purchases also qualify for extended warranty protection, adding an additional layer of security.

No Annual Fee

The absence of an annual fee makes this card an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. It ensures that you can enjoy all the benefits and rewards without worrying about an additional yearly cost.

Credit Score Requirement

The card is designed for individuals with good to excellent credit scores, ranging between 670 and 799. This makes it accessible to a broad audience while still offering premium benefits.

Conclusion

The NDSU Visa® Rewards from Commerce Bank is a versatile credit card that offers a range of benefits tailored to various spending habits. Its generous cashback rewards on streaming, cable, ridesharing services, gas, and restaurants make it a compelling choice for tech-savvy consumers and frequent diners. The 1.99% introductory APR for the first six billing cycles adds significant value, especially for those planning large purchases or looking to consolidate debt.
However, the high variable APR, foreign transaction fees, and substantial penalty fees are potential drawbacks that should be considered. Despite these cons, the absence of an annual fee and extensive fraud and purchase protection features make this card a strong contender in the market.
In conclusion, the NDSU Visa® Rewards from Commerce Bank is well-suited for individuals with good to excellent credit scores who are looking for a rewarding cashback card without the burden of an annual fee. Its benefits make it an excellent choice for everyday use, provided you can manage the high variable APR and avoid carrying a balance.