American Express Red Card
How does the RED card really compare?

		Featured Site: American Express Red Current online offer: Charity Card Our overall rating: Visit website for more information:

And how exactly is the money that is raised by the RED card used? It not only funds educational programmes to stem the spread of the virus, but also creates treatment centres to support sufferers and their families. Voluntary testing schemes are now possible thanks to contributions from the Global Fund as well as counselling and therapy to complement the medicinal treatments offered.

The Red card isn't the only charity credit card available, but it measures up more than favourably to its competitors. It offers some excellent customer advantages, in addition to the peace of mind of knowing that you are contributing to the fight against AIDS.

First and foremost, this credit card carries no annual fee. Not just for the first year, or for an introductory period of 18 months, but for life. As long as you stick to the terms and conditions, you won't ever pay for the privilege of use. Considering that annual fees on other credit cards can stack up to around £70, you're already making a significant saving.

And what about the all-important APR? It's competitive. At 12.9% its not the lowest on the market, but nor does it compare to some Visas which offer a typical 14.9% APR. So if you fall behind on the payments, then you won't be getting the full sting of some credit card interest rates.

The RED card comes with all those comforting benefits that accompany other American Express products. Their purchase protection lasts for an entire year after the date of purchase, compared to only 100 days with BarclayCard. The customer service line, available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, has a global reach, and can arrange replacement cards or even emergency medical or legal advice if you find yourself in trouble abroad. In other words, their customer services seem to go above and beyond those offered by most credit card companies.

Plus, it's worth taking note of the extra special customer benefits that come along with the fancy RED card. You'll become eligible for RED passes to special "money can't buy" events. These Passes have given the chance for one lucky winner to strut down a Milan Fashion Week catwalk, and another prize draw winner to tour South Africa under the auspices of a famous native artist. The draw for these passes is held every 3 months, and as long as you've used your card at least once in the past months, you're in with a chance.

If you keep a close eye on the RED website, you could snap a RED deal, which are as exclusive and glamorous as you could wish them to be. Recent deals include extra nights at luxury hotels around the world, and free cocktails for all those dining in your party at a top London restaurant. And all you have to do is use your card to pay for your purchases! It's not much to ask...

If you want to make an extra charitable contribution without reaching further into your own pocket, then a charity credit card is the perfect solution. And given the global importance of the fight against AIDS, the new Amex RED card should be at the top of your list. If you investigate other charity card options, you might find that some make larger initial contributions to the chosen charity. However the knowledge that you'll be making a lasting contribution to one of the world's biggest killers makes the RED card a real must. And on a selfish note, the glamour filled frolics of the RED card mean it's hard to resist getting one for your own wallet.