When considering different credit options, many consumers wonder whether it is easier to get approved for a store card than a credit card. The short answer is yes — store cards generally have less stringent approval requirements than traditional credit cards. This is because they have lower credit limits, generally higher interest rates, and are unsecured, meaning they don’t require collateral.
However, while store cards may be a little easier to obtain, it is still important to understand how they differ from credit cards, how they affect your financial standing, and which option is best suited to your needs.
Understanding the Difference Between a Store Card and a Credit Card
Both store cards and credit cards offer consumers a way to purchase goods on credit, but they differ in a few ways.
What is an RCS Store Card?
The RCS Store Card is a retail credit card that allows customers to shop at over 30 000 stores across South Africa. Unlike a traditional credit card, it must be used within the participating retail partner network, making it a more controlled form of credit. It also gives you access to cash subject to approval via the cash request process.
The RCS Store Card is easier to obtain than a credit card because it has a lower credit limit and stricter spending restrictions. This makes it a more accessible option for consumers who may not qualify for a traditional credit card.
Due to a lower credit cap, a store card helps reduce financial risk for both the lender and the consumer, as it prevents over-indebtedness while still providing access to credit.
RCS offers some excellent interest benefits, including up to 55 days interest-free if you settle your balance in full but, in general, a store card will have a slightly higher interest rate in the long run when compared to regular credit cards.
The RCS Store Card also provides flexible repayment terms, with revolving and 24 or 36 month payment terms, helping them manage your payments more effectively.
The vast shopping network also negates difficulties otherwise associated with store cards. The RCS Store Card provides you with access to everything from groceries to appliances, flights and even holidays!
What Is an RCS Credit Card?
The RCS Credit Card operates similarly to a bank-issued credit card, providing broader purchasing power and additional financial flexibility.
As mentioned, the RCS Store Card shopping network is vast, but the credit card takes it a step further as it is not limited to RCS Network. The RCS Credit Card is accepted at any retailer that processes credit card transactions, providing even greater versatility, and will also not require any application to acquire cash. Cash withdrawals can be done at any ATMs, giving consumers access to immediate funds when needed.
Which Option Is Right for You?
This is actually the important question. Both credit options have a range of benefits for you to choose from, but the deciding factor would be based on how you want to use the credit.
You might prefer an RCS Store Card if:
· You frequently shop at RCS partner stores (such as Game, PnP, Makro, Builders Warehouse, etc) and require credit for store or online purchases
· You want to be careful with credit and need a smart solution
· You have other RCS products (such as an insurance product) and want everything consolidated into your account, visible through the RCS App
You might prefer an RCS Credit Card if:
· You want to shop anywhere, including at non-RCS retailers
· You wish to use a credit card to withdraw cash from ATMs
Both options provide valuable credit access, but understanding their differences will help you choose the one that best fits your lifestyle and financial needs.
Consider your financial requirements carefully to ensure that you get the credit option that is best suited to your actual needs. Taking on a credit card simply for in-store purchases may not be the most viable solution for you, as the RCS Store Card could provide better benefits – and vice versa. Browse through the credit card benefits as well as the store card benefits now, and once you’ve made a decision you can apply online in minutes.
