NJIT PRO from Celtic Bank Review

When it comes to selecting a credit card, there are numerous factors to consider, ranging from rewards and benefits to interest rates and fees. The NJIT PRO from Celtic Bank stands out as a strong contender for those who prioritize cash-back rewards, especially in travel and dining categories. With no annual fee, this card is accessible to a wide range of consumers, including students and individuals with fair to good credit scores. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the specifics of what the NJIT PRO has to offer, its benefits, drawbacks, and ultimately, whether it deserves a spot in your wallet.

NJIT PRO Key Takeaways

Before diving into the detailed review, let’s highlight the key takeaways of the NJIT PRO credit card:
– Rewards Structure: 3% cash back on travel, 2% cash back on restaurants, and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
– Annual Fee: $0
– APR: Variable APR ranging from 18.24% to 25.24%
– Credit Score Requirement: Fair to Good (580-739)
– Additional Benefits: Cellphone protection, collision damage waiver, Mastercard Airport Concierge™, and Mastercard Global Service.

NJIT PRO Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. No Annual Fee: One of the most appealing aspects of the NJIT PRO is that it comes with no annual fee, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
2. No Foreign Transaction Fees: This feature is particularly beneficial for travelers. You can make purchases abroad without incurring additional charges, which can quickly add up with other credit cards.
3. Cashback Rewards: The card offers a competitive cash-back structure, especially for those who spend frequently on travel and dining.
4. Comprehensive Travel Benefits: From cellphone protection to collision damage waivers and airport concierge services, the NJIT PRO offers a variety of travel-related perks.

Cons:

1. No Balance Transfer or Cash Advance Options: The lack of balance transfer and cash advance options may be a drawback for some users who require these features.
2. Variable APR: With an APR that can go as high as 25.24%, carrying a balance on this card can become costly.
3. Limited Introductory Offers: Unlike many other credit cards that offer enticing introductory offers, the NJIT PRO does not currently provide any such benefits.

NJIT PRO Benefits

Cashback Rewards

The NJIT PRO’s standout feature is its cash-back rewards program. Here’s a deeper look at how you can maximize your rewards:
– Travel: Earn 3% cash back on all travel-related purchases. This includes flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. For frequent travelers, this can result in significant savings over time.
– Restaurants: Dining out can be expensive, but with 2% cash back on restaurant purchases, the NJIT PRO helps you recoup some of those costs.
– All Other Purchases: For everyday spending, the card offers 1% cash back. While this isn’t the highest rate available, it’s a nice addition to the higher rates in the travel and dining categories.

Travel Benefits

The NJIT PRO goes beyond just offering cash-back rewards. It also provides a suite of travel-related benefits that can enhance your travel experience:
– Cellphone Protection: Receive up to $600 in cellphone protection, which can be a lifesaver if your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged while traveling.
– Collision Damage Waiver: If you rent a car using your NJIT PRO card, you’ll receive additional insurance coverage. This can save you money on rental car insurance and provide peace of mind while on the road.
– Mastercard Airport Concierge™: Enjoy a 15% savings on Airport Meet and Greet services. This service includes a dedicated agent to assist you through the airport, making your travel experience smoother and more efficient.
– Mastercard Global Service: Provides 24-hour assistance with lost and stolen card reporting, emergency card replacement, and emergency cash advances. This is an invaluable resource if you encounter issues while traveling abroad.

Other Key Benefits

– No Annual Fee: The absence of an annual fee makes the NJIT PRO a cost-effective choice, especially for those who want to maximize their cash-back rewards without incurring additional costs.
– No Foreign Transaction Fees: International travelers will appreciate the lack of foreign transaction fees, allowing them to make purchases abroad without extra charges.
– Fair to Good Credit Acceptance: With a credit score requirement ranging from 580 to 739, the NJIT PRO is accessible to a broad spectrum of consumers, including those who are working to improve their credit.

Fees and Interest Rates

Understanding the fees and interest rates associated with a credit card is crucial for managing your finances effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the NJIT PRO’s fees and rates:
– Annual Fee: $0
– Purchase APR: Variable APR ranging from 18.24% to 25.24%, depending on your creditworthiness.
– Introductory APR: None
– Balance Transfer APR: None
– APR for Cash Advances: None
– Late Payment Fee: Up to $25
– Return Payment Fee: Up to $37
– How to Avoid Paying Interest: Your due date is at least 23 days after the close of each billing cycle. You will not be charged any interest on purchases if you pay your entire balance by the due date each month.

Managing Your Account

Celtic Bank provides straightforward methods for managing your NJIT PRO account. You can pay your bill online through the bank’s website or contact their customer service for assistance. This ease of access ensures that you can stay on top of your payments and account management with minimal hassle.

Conclusion

The NJIT PRO from Celtic Bank is a versatile credit card that offers substantial benefits, particularly for those who spend heavily on travel and dining. With no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, it is a cost-effective option for frequent travelers and food enthusiasts alike. The cash-back rewards structure is competitive, and the additional travel benefits, such as cellphone protection and airport concierge services, add significant value.
However, the card does have its drawbacks, including a high variable APR and the lack of balance transfer and cash advance options. Additionally, the absence of introductory offers may make it less appealing to those looking for immediate incentives.
Overall, the NJIT PRO is a solid choice for individuals with fair to good credit who prioritize travel and dining rewards. Its comprehensive suite of travel benefits and competitive cash-back structure make it a valuable addition to any wallet. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone who enjoys dining out, the NJIT PRO can help you earn rewards and save money on your everyday expenses.