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Credit cards with price protection
Save money on purchased items when they drop in price.
You bought a new smartphone and a week later it goes on sale with 30% off. This can be frustrating because you could’ve spent the difference in price on something else. Luckily, some credit card issuers offer price protection in cases such as this.
What is price protection?
If you make a purchase using a credit card with a price protection policy, and you later find the same item cheaper elsewhere, the policy kicks in to pay you the difference.
Your refund will often come in the form of a statement credit.
Must read: Important information
The service is generally free provided certain conditions are met.
Compare credit cards with price protection
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How do credit cards with price protection work?
Each credit card issuer has its own specific terms and conditions, but they all follow similar rules. For example:
- You must use your credit card.
This means the item you purchase has to be charged in full on your eligible credit card. - Protection time is limited.
For many cards, the policies state you need to make a claim between 60 and 120 days of purchasing the more expensive item. The time frame limit varies between cards. - You need proof of the cheaper item.
Often you need to provide the same item with the same model number and preferably the same color that has a lower price. - Claim amount limitation.
All credit card providers limit the amount you can claim. Depending on your card, the maximum amount you can claim is between $1,000 and $2,500 annually with a maximum between $200 and $500 per claim.
How to find out which items are eligible for price protection
The price protection terms and conditions list all exclusions from this perk. In most cases, you won’t get coverage for purchases of cars, boats, aircraft, jewelry, art, plants, animals, housing, various tickets and professional services.
What’s the difference between price protection and purchase protection
Price protection provides a refund for the price difference between the discounted and the old price of an item you bought. Purchase protection, on the other hand, covers items purchased with your credit card against theft or damage.
How do you compare cards with price protection?
Comparing a card with price protection policy can be done in the following ways:
- Find out what the annual fee is.
It may not be worth paying an annual fee if price protection is the only perk you’re interested in. You should also weigh the card’s other benefits to see if the annual fee is worth it. - Compare the interest rates.
If you plan to make purchases and carry a balance from month to month, ensure the interest rate is manageable. If you intend to pay your card off each month, then it may be useful to compare rewards credit cards. - Compare price protection policy.
Price protection is similar between card providers. The only difference you may find is the length of your covered period and the amount limitations. - Look for added features and extras.
If two cards are equal after the above comparison, it’s useful to look for any added features and benefits. Look for bonus points or balance transfer deals.
Pros and cons of credit cards with price protection
Pros
- Potential to save money. A price protection policy could save you money and help you avoid frustration.
- Peace of mind. If you’re in a hurry and buy a product, you can rest easy knowing you have up to 120 days to find it cheaper and file a claim.
- Price protection is complimentary. You don’t have to pay extra to use this perk.
Cons
- Not many credit card options. Today, this is a feature that not many cards offer. This may change in the future.
- Coverage amount is limited. You’re covered in up to $2,500 annually for maximum coverage of up to $500 per occurrence. But this amount varies between cards.
- Not all purchase items are covered. All card issuers have a list of items and services that aren’t covered with price protection, including vehicles, event or travel tickets, collectibles, items purchased at an auction and professional services.
Tips and things to avoid when it comes to cards with price protection
- If you’ll be paying higher annual fees because of this protection policy, make sure you’ll use the benefit.
- Read the terms and conditions before you apply for any card.
- Keep your receipt and other proof of purchase whenever you buy an important or expensive item.
Bottom line
Price protection is an excellent credit card perk that reimburses you the difference in the price of an item that you purchased and the new discounted price within a set time frame, usually in up to 120 days.
Keep in mind that not all credit cards offer this perk. Compare credit cards that do.
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