I keep seeing the term LTF while checking HSBC credit cards in India. What exactly does Lifetime Free mean and how does it work?
A colleague once mentioned that his HSBC card was LTF and I was curious if that meant he would never have to pay annual charges. After discussing with a few cardholders and reading some online experiences, I understood what Lifetime Free really means in the Indian context for HSBC credit cards.
What Does LTF Mean for HSBC Credit Cards in India:
A friend explained that when an HSBC card is tagged as LTF, it means the card does not have an annual or renewal fee for its entire lifetime. Unlike standard cards where you might get a fee waiver only on crossing a spend milestone, an LTF card remains free regardless of spending.
How Banks Market LTF Credit Cards in India:
Someone on a finance forum pointed out that banks including HSBC often promote select cards as Lifetime Free during limited period campaigns to attract new users. The idea is to remove the hesitation many first time card applicants feel about paying annual charges.
Hidden Terms That Can Apply on LTF Cards in India:
One user shared that while his HSBC card was indeed LTF, the bank still required him to maintain a good payment track record and avoid defaults. Though the annual fee is waived forever, other charges like late payment fees, finance charges, or markup fees on international transactions still apply.
Why People Prefer LTF Credit Cards in India:
My colleague emphasized that the biggest advantage of an HSBC Lifetime Free credit card is peace of mind. Even if you do not use the card heavily every year, you will not lose money on renewal charges. It is especially useful for keeping a card active for credit score purposes without worrying about extra costs.
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