September 17, 2024

B&H Credit Card Review: Is It Worth It?

The B&H credit card, also known as the Payboo card, is an exclusive credit offering from B&H Photo Video, a leading retailer of photography gear. This card could be a game-changer for those working in photography and videography, especially for regular B&H customers. This comprehensive review aims to provide a detailed analysis of the B&H credit card, its advantages and disadvantages, the application process, approval odds, and much more.

Table of Contents

  • What is the B&H Credit Card?
  • Pros and Cons of the B&H Credit Card
  • How Does the B&H Credit Card Benefit Photographers and Filmmakers?
  • How to Apply for the B&H Credit Card
  • Important Considerations for the B&H Credit Card
  • Should You Opt for the B&H Credit Card?
  • Comparison with Other Cards
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the B&H Credit Card?

The B&H credit card, often referred to as the Payboo card, is a unique financial tool provided by B&H Photo Video, a leading retailer of photography and videography equipment. Designed with the needs of photographers and filmmakers in mind, this credit card offers a range of benefits that can make purchasing gear from B&H more affordable and manageable.

Pros and Cons of the B&H Credit Card

Like any financial product, the B&H credit card comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Here’s a quick rundown:

Advantages

  • No annual fees: You won’t face any yearly charges for using this card.
  • Immediate sales tax refund: You can receive an instant refund on sales tax for eligible purchases.
  • Special financing options: The card offers unique financing plans, making expensive purchases more manageable.
  • Reports to multiple credit bureaus: Regular usage and prompt repayment can help boost your credit score.

Drawbacks

  • High APR: The card carries a relatively high annual percentage rate (APR), which could lead to substantial interest charges if you carry a balance.
  • Limited benefits: Unlike many credit cards, the B&H credit card doesn’t offer rewards or cashback.
  • Limited usability: As a store card, it’s primarily useful for purchases made at B&H.

How Does the B&H Credit Card Benefit Photographers and Filmmakers?

The B&H credit card is particularly attractive to photographers and filmmakers for two key reasons: sales tax relief and flexible financing.

Immediate Sales Tax Relief

For purchases made with the B&H credit card, the sales tax is immediately refunded, effectively making your purchases tax-free. This benefit is particularly useful for those residing in states with high sales tax rates.

Budget-Friendly Purchases

The B&H credit card offers unique financing plans, allowing you to spread the cost of expensive equipment over several months. This feature can make high-ticket items more affordable and manageable.

How to Apply for the B&H Credit Card

To apply for the B&H credit card, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria. These include being of legal age (as defined by your state law), possessing a valid government-issued photo ID and tax ID, and having a valid mailing address.

Once you meet these criteria, you can apply directly through the B&H website. You might need to provide additional information such as your date of birth, email address, and annual income.

Important Considerations for the B&H Credit Card

Before applying for the B&H credit card, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

  • High APR: The card carries a high APR, which means carrying a balance can lead to hefty interest charges.
  • Limited Usability: This card is primarily useful for purchases at B&H, so its usefulness could be limited if you shop elsewhere for your gear.
  • Sales Tax Relief Restrictions: The sales tax relief benefit is only available in states where B&H can collect and remit sales tax.

Should You Opt for the B&H Credit Card?

Whether or not the B&H credit card is right for you depends on your purchasing habits and financial situation. If you frequently purchase equipment from B&H and can benefit from the sales tax relief or financing options, this card could be a good fit. However, keep in mind the high APR and make sure to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid hefty interest charges.

Comparison with Other Cards

Before making a decision, it’s a good idea to compare the B&H credit card with other available options. Here are three alternatives to consider:

  1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®: This credit card from Chase offers a flat cashback rate on all purchases. It could be a good option for B&H purchases and other everyday expenses. The card may also come with a sign-up bonus and various promotional offers.
  2. Citi® Double Cash Card: This card allows you to earn cashback twice – 1% when you make a purchase and another 1% when you pay your bill. It doesn’t have any annual fees, making it a straightforward choice for earning rewards on your spending.
  3. Discover it® Cash Back: The Discover it Cash Back card offers rotating 5% cash back categories that change each quarter. Although B&H might not always be in the 5% category, it still offers 1% cashback on all other purchases. Additionally, Discover matches all the cashback earned in the first year for new card members.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the B&H credit card charge an annual fee?

No, the B&H credit card does not charge an annual fee.

What are the B&H credit card approval odds?

The approval odds for the B&H credit card depend on various factors, including your credit score and financial situation.

Can I use the B&H credit card for international purchases?

Yes, the B&H credit card can be used for international purchases of B&H products. However, keep in mind that the sales tax relief benefit may not apply to international purchases.

How can I check my B&H credit card account balance and savings?

You can check your account balance and track your savings through the B&H website’s Transactions and Statements page.

How can I access the B&H credit card login?

You can access the B&H credit card login page through the B&H website.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the B&H credit card is a great option for photographers and filmmakers who frequently shop at B&H. However, all things considered, including the high APR and limited usability, before applying, this may not be a good fit for most people. As always, it’s recommended to compare different options and choose the one that best fits your needs and financial situation.

Jean

I'm a freelance writer living on the East Coast with West Indian roots. I enjoy writing about personal finance, budgeting, investing strategies and self-improvement. When I'm not writing, you can find me dabbling in creative projects or spending time with my family and friends.

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