AU Prathama Credit Card
Card Overview
The AU Prathama Credit Card is a basic credit card from AU Small Finance Bank. It is suitable for people who want to earn rewards on their daily purchases while paying a low annual fee. The card has an annual fee of just ₹100 + GST. You earn 1 Reward Point for every ₹100 spent on eligible purchases. If you spend more than ₹5,000 in a month, you can earn 2X Reward Points on the extra spending. The card also supports contactless payments, making everyday transactions quick and easy. Each Reward Point is worth ₹0.25 when redeemed.
The card also comes with a few useful benefits. You can get a fuel surcharge waiver on eligible fuel purchases and earn 500 bonus Reward Points by setting up a standing instruction or recurring payment. Overall, the AU Prathama Credit Card is a good option for people who want a simple credit card with a low annual fee and basic rewards. It can be useful for first-time credit card users or anyone who wants to earn rewards on regular spending without paying a high yearly fee.
Card Details
- Low Annual Fee: Pay only ₹100 + GST per year, making the card affordable for regular use.
- Reward Points: Earn 1 Reward Point for every ₹100 spent on eligible purchases.
- 2X Reward Points: Earn 2 Reward Points per ₹100 on eligible Tap & Pay transactions and on additional spending above ₹5,000 in a statement cycle.
- 500 Bonus Points: Get 500 bonus Reward Points when you successfully set up a Standing Instruction or recurring payment with a merchant.
- Fuel Savings: Get a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on eligible fuel transactions between ₹400 and ₹5,000, up to ₹100 per statement cycle.
- Contactless Payments: Pay up to ₹5,000 by simply tapping your card, without entering a PIN, as per applicable rules.
- EMI Conversion: Convert eligible purchases of ₹500 or more into EMIs, with a minimum cumulative transaction value of ₹2,000.
- Reward Redemption: Use your Reward Points for e-vouchers, merchandise, flights, hotels, and other rewards through AU Rewardz.
- Lifetime-Free Add-on Card: Get a lifetime-free add-on card for eligible family members.
Features & Benefits
AU Prathama Credit Card: Features, Benefits, Fees and Eligibility
The AU Prathama Credit Card is an entry-level credit card from AU Small Finance Bank designed for everyday spending. It offers Reward Points on eligible purchases, additional rewards on contactless transactions, milestone benefits, fuel surcharge waiver, and EMI facility.
The card has a low annual fee of Rs.100 plus applicable taxes, which can be waived if you meet the required spending limit.
AU Prathama Credit Card Benefits
The AU Prathama Credit Card offers the following benefits:
- Earn 2 Reward Points for every Rs.100 spent on eligible contactless Tap & Pay transactions.
- Earn 1 Reward Point for every Rs.100 spent on other eligible purchases.
- Earn 2 Reward Points per Rs.100 on eligible incremental spends after crossing Rs.5,000 in a statement cycle.
- Get 500 Bonus Reward Points for the first successful Standing Instruction or recurring payment setup with a merchant.
- Eligible fuel transactions come with a 1% waiver on the fuel surcharge, helping you save a little on every qualifying purchase.
- Convert eligible purchases into EMIs.
- Redeem Reward Points for e-vouchers, merchandise, flight bookings, hotel bookings, and other rewards.
- Get a lifetime-free add-on card for eligible family members.
Reward Points
You can earn Reward Points on eligible purchases made using the card.
For eligible contactless Tap & Pay transactions, you earn 2 Reward Points per Rs.100. Other eligible purchases earn 1 Reward Point per Rs.100.
If your spending crosses Rs.5,000 in a statement cycle, eligible incremental spending can earn 2 Reward Points per Rs.100. Contactless transactions continue to earn 2 Reward Points per Rs.100.
Other Benefits
The card also offers 500 Bonus Reward Points when you successfully set up a Standing Instruction or recurring payment with a merchant for the first time. This bonus is available once per merchant.
For fuel purchases, you get a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on eligible transactions between Rs.400 and Rs.5,000, with a maximum waiver of Rs.100 per statement cycle.
You can also convert eligible transactions of Rs.500 or more into EMIs, subject to a minimum cumulative transaction value of Rs.2,000.
The card supports Tap & Pay transactions of up to Rs.5,000 without entering a PIN, subject to applicable payment rules.
Reward Redemption
Reward Points can be redeemed through AU Rewardz for options such as:
- E-vouchers
- Merchandise
- Flight bookings
- Hotel bookings
- Other available rewards
The available redemption options and terms may change from time to time.
AU Prathama Credit Card Eligibility
The basic eligibility requirements are:
| Applicant | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Salaried primary cardholder | 21 to 60 years |
| Self-employed primary cardholder | 25 to 65 years |
| Add-on cardholder | 18 years or above |
| Nationality | Resident Indian |
Meeting these conditions does not guarantee approval. AU Small Finance Bank may consider your credit profile, income, repayment history, and other internal criteria before approving the application.
AU Prathama Credit Card Fees and Charges
| Particulars | Charges |
|---|---|
| Joining Fee | Rs.100 plus applicable taxes |
| Annual Fee | Rs.100 plus applicable taxes |
| Annual Fee Waiver | Waived from the second year on spending Rs.75,000 or more in the previous card anniversary year |
| Cash Advance Charge | 2.5% or Rs.500, whichever is higher |
| Interest Rate | 3.75% per month (45% per annum) |
| Late Payment Charge | 15% of Total Amount Due |
| Overlimit Charge | 2.5% |
| Outstation Cheque Processing Charge | Rs.25 |
| Payment Return Charge | 2% |
| Duplicate Physical Statement | Rs.100 |
| Card Transfer Charge | Rs.199 plus GST |
| Reward Point Redemption Fee | Rs.99 plus GST |
Fees and charges may change, so it is recommended to check the latest terms and conditions before applying.
Is AU Prathama Credit Card Good?
The AU Prathama Credit Card can be a good option for people looking for a basic credit card with a low annual fee and simple rewards.
It can be useful if you regularly spend on everyday purchases, fuel, and contactless payments. The annual fee is also relatively low and can be waived after meeting the required annual spending limit.
However, if you are looking for premium benefits such as airport lounge access, travel rewards, high cashback, or luxury lifestyle benefits, you may want to compare other credit cards.
Final Verdict
The AU Prathama Credit Card is mainly suitable for everyday spending. Its low annual fee, Reward Points, contactless rewards, fuel surcharge waiver, milestone benefits, recurring payment rewards, and EMI facility make it a practical entry-level credit card.
Before applying, compare its rewards, fees, redemption charges, and benefits with other credit cards to find an option that best matches your spending habits.
Pros/Cons
Reality Check Feedback
What should you consider before applying for a credit card in India?
Key Considerations Before Applying for a Credit Card in India:
- Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, which typically include age, income, credit score, and employment status as defined by the issuing bank or financial institution.
- Credit Score: A strong credit score can significantly improve your chances of approval and result in more favorable terms, such as lower interest rates or higher credit limits. Verify that your credit score is healthy before applying.
- Interest Rates and Fees: Compare the annual percentage rates (APR), processing fees, late payment penalties, and foreign transaction charges associated with various cards. These costs can vary widely and impact the overall value of the card.
- Rewards and Benefits: Evaluate the rewards, cashback, discounts, or other perks offered by the card to ensure they align with your spending patterns. Some cards may provide better benefits in specific categories, such as travel, shopping, or dining.
- Credit Limit: Review the credit limit offered by the card to ensure it meets your financial needs. Avoid applying for cards with excessive limits if you are concerned about managing debt, as this can lead to higher interest charges.
- Repayment Terms: Understand the repayment structure, including the minimum payment amount, payment due dates, and any associated penalties. Being clear about these terms can help you manage payments effectively and avoid interest buildup.
- Card Type and Features: Choose a card type that matches your specific needs—whether standard, premium, or specialized cards like those offering travel rewards or dining privileges. Ensure the features of the card align with your lifestyle and spending habits.
- Bank’s Reputation: Opt for a financial institution with a proven reputation for customer service and transparency. Consider researching customer reviews and assessing their support channels to ensure reliable service.
- Hidden Charges: Be aware of any hidden fees, including annual fees, balance transfer charges, foreign transaction fees, or cash withdrawal charges. These can add up over time and affect the overall cost-effectiveness of the card.
- Credit Utilization: Maintain a balance within your credit limit to avoid high credit utilization ratios, which can negatively impact your credit score. Responsible use of credit is essential for maintaining financial health.
- Long-Term Financial Plans: Consider how the credit card fits into your overall financial strategy. Avoid accumulating unnecessary debt and choose a card that supports your long-term financial goals without adding financial strain.
- Who should apply for the AU Prathama Credit Card?
This card is suitable for first-time credit card users and people who want a simple card with a low annual fee and rewards on daily spending.
- What are the fees and how can the annual fee be waived?
The card has a joining fee of ₹100 + GST and an annual fee of ₹100 + GST. The annual fee can be waived if your yearly spending reaches ₹75,000, subject to the applicable terms
- Can I earn bonus Reward Points on recurring payments?
Yes. You can get 500 bonus Reward Points when you successfully set up a Standing Instruction or recurring payment with a merchant. This bonus is available once per merchant.
- Does the card provide any fuel-related benefit?
Yes. You get a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on eligible fuel transactions between ₹400 and ₹5,000, with a maximum waiver of ₹100 per statement cycle.
- Does the AU Prathama Credit Card offer cashback or welcome benefits?
No. The card does not offer cashback, welcome benefits, or a joining fee waiver.
- Which transactions do not earn Reward Points?
Reward Points are not generally earned on fuel, EMI transactions, cash withdrawals, rent, education fees, government payments, transportation, and other excluded transactions.
- What is the value of AU Prathama Reward Points?
Each Reward Point is worth ₹0.25, which means 100 points are worth ₹25 when redeemed, subject to applicable terms.
- Is there a fee for redeeming Reward Points?
Yes. A ₹99 + GST redemption fee is charged when you redeem your Reward Points.
- What insurance benefits are available with the card?
The card provides card liability cover, credit shield, and device protection, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.
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