How to Avoid Hidden Charges on Lifetime Free Credit Card? Follow these methods

Updated: 12-01-2026, 07.01 PM

What is the news?

Credit cards promoted as lifetime free with no joining or annual fees and rewards may seem like a great deal. Many users later find that the card is not completely free. Banks do not always disclose additional charges that may apply, which can accrue if care is not taken. Let us know what are the additional charges associated with Lifetime Free Credit Card and ways to avoid them.

additional charges

What are the additional charges?

Lifetime free usually means that banks waive off the annual and joining fees during the validity period of the card. This does not waive charges on cash withdrawals, late payments, foreign exchange transactions, add-on cards or reward redemptions. Terms and conditions may vary from bank to bank, so it is important to read the Most Important Terms and Conditions (MITC) related to your credit card.

Fees gradually increase like this

With lifetime free credit cards, even small charges can quickly add up to big bucks. If you buy something worth Rs 20,000 from a foreign merchant, you may have to pay around Rs 600 more due to foreign exchange. If you do not pay your bill for even 2 days, late fees will be added to the total amount due, which will reduce or void any cashback you receive on purchases.

check these things

Read the MITC and fee schedule carefully before activating the card to avoid hidden charges. Confirm whether the Lifetime Free facility is applicable on both primary and add-on cards. Check the fuel, railways, wallet load and fare payment rules as well as any service charges that may apply for redeeming rewards or transferring points. Avoid cash withdrawals from cards on which interest starts accruing immediately.

Avoid charges in these ways

Start payment reminder and autopay the entire due amount. Choose to pay in local currency instead of your home currency to avoid DCC charges when traveling abroad. Be aware of processing fees for EMI conversion or convenience fees charged by merchants. Review the statement every month and raise objections to any unrecognized charges within the stipulated time frame.

Pay attention to these things before applying

It is important to keep a few things in mind before applying for a lifetime free credit card. Is the set limit sufficient for your monthly expenses and what is the forex markup, as well as any limits or offers that may reduce it. Understand the value per point and any fees associated with rewards/redemptions. Check if there are any charges for add-ons/replacements or any conditions like minimum spend/regular usage to keep it free.