Lifetime free credit cards are a great option for those who want the convenience and benefits of a credit card without the burden of annual fees. These cards offer various rewards, cashback, and discounts, making them an excellent choice for everyday use. In this article, we’ll explore the best lifetime free credit cards in India for 2024, detailing their features, eligibility criteria, and how you can maximize their benefits.
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Criteria for Choosing Lifetime Free Credit Cards
When selecting a lifetime free credit card, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
- No Annual Fees: The primary advantage of these cards is that they don’t charge any annual or renewal fees.
- Rewards and Benefits: Look for cards that offer cashback, reward points, discounts on shopping, dining, and fuel surcharge waivers.
- Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the income and credit score requirements for the card.
Top Lifetime Free Credit Cards in India 2024
IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: Welcome vouchers worth up to ₹500
- Reward Points: 10x reward points on spends over ₹20,000/month
- Lifestyle Benefits: Discounts on dining and entertainment
- Additional Perks: Fuel surcharge waiver, zero lost card liability
- Eligibility: Minimum income of ₹20,000/month
ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: Complimentary domestic lounge access
- Reward Points: 2 PAYBACK points for every ₹100 spent
- Lifestyle Benefits: Dining discounts via the Culinary Treats Program
- Additional Perks: Contactless payments, fuel surcharge waiver
- Eligibility: Minimum annual income of ₹2.5 lakh
SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: ₹500 Amazon voucher
- Reward Points: 10x reward points on online spending with partner merchants
- Lifestyle Benefits: E-vouchers worth ₹2,000 on reaching annual spends of ₹1 lakh
- Additional Perks: Fuel surcharge waiver, contactless payments
- Eligibility: Minimum annual income of ₹3 lakh
Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: Nil
- Reward Points: 1 reward point for every ₹200 spent
- Lifestyle Benefits: Easy EMI conversion, dining discounts
- Additional Perks: No income proof required, fixed deposit backed
- Eligibility: Minimum fixed deposit of ₹20,000 with Axis Bank
HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: 10% cashback on transactions within the first 90 days (up to ₹3,000)
- Reward Points: 2 reward points for every ₹150 spent
- Lifestyle Benefits: Dining privileges and discounts
- Additional Perks: Fuel surcharge waiver, zero liability on lost card
- Eligibility: Minimum annual income of ₹4 lakh
Kotak 811 DreamDifferent Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: Nil
- Reward Points: 2 reward points for every ₹100 spent
- Lifestyle Benefits: Discount on fuel surcharge, dining offers
- Additional Perks: 4 free PVR movie tickets on spending ₹1.5 lakh annually
- Eligibility: Kotak 811 account holder with a minimum balance of ₹10,000
Yes Bank Prosperity Edge Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: Nil
- Reward Points: 4 reward points per ₹200 spent
- Lifestyle Benefits: Dining offers and fuel surcharge waiver
- Additional Perks: Airport lounge access
- Eligibility: Minimum annual income of ₹3 lakh
HDFC MoneyBack Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: E-vouchers on sign-up
- Reward Points: 2 reward points for every ₹150 spent, 2x points on online spending
- Lifestyle Benefits: Fuel surcharge waiver
- Additional Perks: Cashback on reward points redemption
- Eligibility: Minimum annual income of ₹2 lakh
Bank of Baroda Easy Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: Nil
- Reward Points: 5 reward points for every ₹100 spent on groceries, dining, and movies
- Lifestyle Benefits: 1% fuel surcharge waiver
- Additional Perks: Low-interest rate on EMIs
- Eligibility: Minimum annual income of ₹2.4 lakh
IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card
- Benefits:
- Welcome Gift: Nil
- Reward Points: 4 reward points for every ₹100 spent on weekends
- Lifestyle Benefits: Dining offers and travel discounts
- Additional Perks: Complimentary airport lounge access
- Eligibility: Minimum annual income of ₹4 lakh
Comparison of Lifetime Free Credit Cards
Credit Card | Reward Points | Eligibility Criteria |
---|---|---|
IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card | 10x reward points on spends over ₹20,000/month | Minimum income of ₹20,000/month |
ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Card | 2 PAYBACK points for every ₹100 spent | Minimum annual income of ₹2.5 lakh |
SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card | 10x reward points on online spending | Minimum annual income of ₹3 lakh |
Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card | 1 reward point for every ₹200 spent | Minimum fixed deposit of ₹20,000 with Axis Bank |
HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card | 2 reward points for every ₹150 spent | Minimum annual income of ₹4 lakh |
Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card | 2 reward points for every ₹100 spent | Kotak 811 account holder with a minimum balance of ₹10,000 |
Yes Bank Prosperity Edge Credit Card | 4 reward points per ₹200 spent | Minimum annual income of ₹3 lakh |
HDFC MoneyBack Credit Card | 2 reward points for every ₹150 spent, 2x points on online spending | Minimum annual income of ₹2 lakh |
Bank of Baroda Easy Credit Card | 5 reward points for every ₹100 spent on groceries, dining, and movies | Minimum annual income of ₹2.4 lakh |
IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card | 4 reward points for every ₹100 spent on weekends | Minimum annual income of ₹4 lakh |
Lifetime Free Credit Cards Review
IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card
- Review: The IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card stands out for its high reward rate on monthly spending above ₹20,000, making it an excellent option for moderate to heavy spenders. Additionally, the discounts on dining and entertainment make this card attractive for lifestyle enthusiasts. The absence of annual fees makes this card a great all-rounder for those looking for value without ongoing costs.
ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Card
- Review: A solid choice for those who want simplicity and security, the ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Card offers decent reward points on everyday spending. The dining discounts add value, and the embedded microchip provides an added layer of security. It’s a great card for first-time users or those who prefer a straightforward, no-fuss credit card.
SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card
- Review: Tailored for online shoppers, the SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card offers substantial rewards on online spending, especially with partner merchants. The welcome gift of an Amazon voucher is a nice touch for those who frequently shop online. It’s an ideal card for individuals who want to maximize their savings on online purchases.
Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
- Review: The Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card is unique in that it doesn’t require income proof, making it accessible to a wider audience. It’s backed by a fixed deposit, which can be a downside for some, but it’s a strong option for those with limited credit history or those looking to build their credit score.
HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card
- Review: With a generous cashback offer during the first 90 days and consistent rewards on all spending, the HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card is excellent for those seeking value right from the start. The dining privileges and zero liability on lost cards add to its appeal as a safe and rewarding choice.
Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card
- Review: Ideal for Kotak 811 account holders, this card offers decent rewards and lifestyle benefits, including fuel surcharge waivers and dining offers. The inclusion of free movie tickets on meeting annual spend targets makes it particularly appealing to movie enthusiasts.
Yes Bank Prosperity Edge Credit Card
- Review: With a strong rewards program and the added benefit of airport lounge access, the Yes Bank Prosperity Edge Credit Card is designed for those who travel frequently. The lack of a welcome gift is balanced by its ongoing value through rewards and lifestyle benefits.
HDFC MoneyBack Credit Card
- Review: A popular choice for those who like the idea of earning cashback, the HDFC MoneyBack Credit Card converts reward points into cash, offering flexibility and value. The card’s focus on online spending makes it a strong contender for e-commerce enthusiasts.
Bank of Baroda Easy Credit Card
- Review: The Bank of Baroda Easy Credit Card offers high reward points on everyday categories like groceries, dining, and movies, making it a great choice for daily use. The low-interest rate on EMIs adds an extra layer of appeal for those who might occasionally carry a balance.
IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card
- Review: This card offers excellent weekend rewards and lifestyle benefits, including dining and travel discounts. The complimentary airport lounge access makes it a great option for frequent travelers who want to enjoy premium perks without annual fees.
Conclusion
Lifetime free credit cards are an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the benefits of a credit card without worrying about annual fees. The IDFC FIRST Millennia, ICICI Bank Platinum Chip, SBI SimplyCLICK, Axis Bank Insta Easy, HSBC Visa Platinum, Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent, Yes Bank Prosperity Edge, HDFC MoneyBack, Bank of Baroda Easy, and IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge are among the best options in India for 2024. Choose a card based on your spending habits and financial needs.
FAQ
1. What is a lifetime free credit card?
- A lifetime free credit card is a credit card that does not charge any annual or renewal fees for the lifetime of the card. Cardholders can enjoy the benefits of the credit card without worrying about recurring fees.
2. Are there any hidden charges with lifetime free credit cards?
- While lifetime free credit cards do not have annual fees, they may still have other charges such as interest on carried balances, late payment fees, and charges for certain transactions (e.g., cash advances). It’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully.
3. Can I upgrade my lifetime free credit card to a premium card later?
- Yes, most banks allow cardholders to upgrade their credit cards to a premium variant. However, the upgraded card may come with an annual fee, and you will need to meet the eligibility criteria for the new card.
4. How do I apply for a lifetime free credit card?
- You can apply for a lifetime free credit card online through the bank’s website or by visiting the nearest branch. Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
5. What should I consider when choosing a lifetime free credit card?
- Consider the reward points program, lifestyle benefits, additional perks such as fuel surcharge waivers, and the eligibility criteria when choosing a lifetime free credit card.
6. Do lifetime free credit cards offer rewards and cashback?
- Yes, many lifetime free credit cards offer rewards points, cashback, and discounts on various categories like dining, shopping, and travel, making them valuable even without an annual fee.