The Orchard Bank MasterCard is designed for those cardholders who have an average or limited credit history who do not want to secure a credit card account with a savings deposit. Although this card can help a cardholder with a limited credit history build a foundation for a positive and solid credit history if payments are made on time, a few costly factors must be taken into consideration first.

At 15.65% variable for purchases, the interest rate for this type of card is competitive for other similar cards, but it can still be rather costly for those who intend to carry a high balance on the card. On cash advances, you can expect to pay a variable rate of 24.40%.

The card carries an annual fee of $49, not excessive for this time card. There is a cash advance fee of 5% with a minimum of $5. Although this is higher than other cards that usually assess a 3% cash advance fee, there is no balance transfer fee. In addition to the annual fee, there is an application fee of $49, so during the first year, a cardholder will pay a total of $98 for the Orchard Bank MasterCard.

In spite of the high interest rate on this card, its use will allow a cardholder to build a positive credit history. Of course, those who are able to pay in full each month and avoid finance charges will benefit the most from this card. For those who are unable to do that and carry a high balance, it can be quite expensive.

Though it offers minimal benefits, a cardholder will receive some perks with this card such as the following:

? Online access to account information

? Emergency card and cash replacement

? Reporting of lost and stolen cards

? No liability to cardholder for unauthorized transactions