But when they do it by hiding or disguising what it really costs you to use a card, that's not right. Teaser rates, low in the beginning but rising after six months or so, are a popular way for card issuers to attract new cardholders. Costly cash advances. Grace is gone. If the issuer charges interest from the date you make a purchase, these cards are expensive even if you always pay in full each month.
Grace is iffy.
Most cards having grace periods charge interest on new purchases if you carry a balance. So if you're counting on a grace period, pay your bill in full each month. Grace is brief. The typical grace period is 25 days, but some issuers are closing the window between your purchase date and when interest applies. Sometimes, the shorter grace period only applies to customers who pay their bills in full.