If you’re a photographer, videographer, or someone who simply loves technology and gadgets, the chances are that you’ve come across B&H Photo Video. Known for offering a wide range of products, this popular retailer has introduced its own credit card called the B&H Payboo Card to provide added benefits for its customers. The card is issued by Synchrony Bank and comes with some attractive features that could make your shopping experience even better.
One of the significant benefits of the B&H Payboo Card is the 0% APR rate on new purchases for up to 12 months, which provides an efficient way to finance your equipment purchases. However, it is worth noting that the card comes with a relatively high APR rate after the introductory period, making it essential for the cardholders to weigh the pros and cons before committing to this credit card option.
As you consider whether the B&H Payboo Card is right for you, it’s crucial to delve deeper into the card’s features, benefits, and potential drawbacks. In this article, we will be discussing various aspects of this store credit card to help in evaluating its suitability for your specific needs and shopping habits at B&H Photo Video.
B&H Payboo Credit Card Overview
The B&H Payboo Credit Card is a store card designed specifically for purchases at B&H Photo Video. This card offers a unique way to save on sales tax or access special financing offers.
Issuer
The B&H Payboo Credit Card is issued by Synchrony Bank, a well-known provider of credit cards for various retailers. This means that the card can only be used for purchases at B&H, either online or in their physical store.
Credit Plan
The primary benefit of the B&H Payboo Credit Card is the ability to choose between two credit options:
- Payboo Savings: This option refunds the equivalent of the sales tax on your purchases.
- Special Financing: For qualifying purchases, you can choose a promotional credit plan instead of the Payboo Savings. This may include offers like “no interest if paid in full in 12 months.”
It is important to note that the B&H Payboo Credit Card has a 29.99% variable purchase APR, which means it’s not recommended for those who tend to carry a balance on their cards. To maximize the benefits of this card, it’s advisable to pay off the balance in full each month.
Remember that the B&H Payboo Credit Card is best suited for those who frequently shop at B&H Photo and Video, as its benefits are very specific to this retailer. For those who do shop extensively at B&H, this card can offer significant cost savings and financing flexibility.
Applying for the Card
Credit Approval and Score Range
The B&H Payboo Credit Card is issued by Synchrony Bank and comes with certain credit approval requirements. Although the precise range may vary, it’s recommended to have a credit score of at least 670 since this is generally seen as a good credit score. Higher credit scores increase your odds of being approved for the card.
Required Information
When applying for the B&H Payboo Credit Card, you’ll be asked to provide necessary personal information that will help determine your creditworthiness. Typical required information includes:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (SSN)
- Contact details (email, physical address, and phone number)
- Income information
Instant Decision
B&H Payboo Credit Card provides an instant credit decision for potential cardholders. After submitting your application with the required information, you will receive a rapid decision on whether or not you have been approved for the card.
Benefits and Features
Tax-Equivalent Loyalty Reward Offer
The B&H Payboo credit card offers a unique tax-equivalent loyalty reward for cardholders. The Save the Tax instant savings benefit effectively negates sales tax on your purchases. This allows customers to save on the amount equivalent to the sales tax on their eligible items, making it a valuable option for frequent shoppers at B&H.
Financing Options
B&H credit card offers financing options to its customers, allowing them to spread payments over 6 or 12 months on select items. If the balance is paid within the specified time, no interest is charged, making it an attractive choice for those looking to make substantial purchases and manage their payments more comfortably. However, be aware of the high variable purchase APR of 29.99% applicable if you fail to pay off the balance within the promotional period.
Exclusive Savings for NYC Superstore Purchases
Cardholders can also benefit from exclusive savings and discounts on purchases made at the B&H NYC Superstore. This adds extra value to the card for those living or shopping in New York City, enhancing the overall benefits of the B&H credit card.
It’s important to note that the B&H Payboo credit card does not charge an annual fee, making it an excellent option for those seeking a low-maintenance card with valuable benefits. However, potential cardholders should be mindful of their credit as fair or better credit is required to qualify for this card. Moreover, while the variable purchase APR of 29.99% is somewhat higher than the average interest rate for credit cards (17.72%), responsible use and timely payments can minimize the impact of this higher rate.
Costs and Fees
Purchase and Balance Transfer APR
The B&H credit card has a variable purchase APR of 29.99%. This interest rate is relatively high, making it not suitable for those who tend to carry a balance on their credit cards. The card offers an introductory 0% APR rate on new purchases for up to 12 months, after which the regular interest rate will apply. It’s essential to keep in mind that this offer may change or vary based on the cardholder’s creditworthiness.
- Introductory 0% APR rate on new purchases for up to 12 months
- Variable purchase APR of 29.99%
Annual Fee
One appealing feature of the B&H credit card is that it comes with no annual fee. This makes it an attractive option for individuals who are looking for a low-maintenance credit card.
- No annual fee
Other Charges
When considering the costs and fees associated with the B&H credit card, be aware of additional charges that may apply. For instance, late fees and returned payments can result in extra costs on your account. It’s essential to review the card’s terms and conditions to understand all applicable fees before applying.
It’s also important to note that you’ll need a fairly good credit score (at least 650 points) to be approved for the B&H credit card. Therefore, make sure to maintain a healthy credit score to maximize your chances of qualifying for this card.
- Maintain a credit score of at least 650 points
- Review terms and conditions for applicable fees
Using the Card
Online Management and Login Page
The B&H credit card allows you to manage your account online. With the online management, you can do the following:
- Check your balance: Monitor your available balance and know how much you can spend using the credit card.
- View transaction history: Keep track of your spending by reviewing your recent transactions and payment history.
- Make payments: Pay your bill online through a secure login page, ensuring timely payments and avoiding late fees.
- Update personal information: Keep your account up-to-date by updating your contact and account information as needed.
To manage your B&H credit card account, you can access the login page using your email and password on the card issuer’s website.
Customer Service and Support
B&H takes customer service and support seriously, providing dedicated options for credit cardholders needing assistance:
- Phone support: For immediate assistance, you can reach their customer service team via phone. Note that your card issuer will have a specific customer service phone number for credit card inquiries.
- Email support: If you prefer written communication, you can contact their support team at the designated support contact email address. Reach out for help with any account or card-related questions or concerns.
- Online chat: Some card issuers may offer online chat support, providing another way to connect with customer service.
Remember that timely communication with the credit card issuer is crucial, especially if you’re experiencing issues with your account or card, such as billing disputes, lost cards, or fraud protection.
The B&H credit card is an excellent option for those looking to purchase photography gear and enjoy exclusive deals and savings. Keep in mind to use the card responsibly and maintain good credit habits, such as paying bills on time and keeping credit utilization low. Utilize the online account management tools and customer support services to stay informed and manage your finances effectively.
Opinions and Reviews
The B&H Credit Card is geared towards photography enthusiasts and professionals who frequently shop at the renowned camera and photography superstore. However, opinions on the value and usefulness of the card vary, as some people find it beneficial while others have raised concerns.
Many customers report positive experiences with the B&H Credit Card. They appreciate the opportunity to earn rewards on their purchases and enjoy exclusive offers for camera equipment and accessories. The B&H store is known for its vast selection of professional photography gear, so being able to accumulate reward points can be quite advantageous for frequent shoppers.
On the other hand, some users express concerns about the B&H Payboo Credit Card, which is issued by Synchrony Bank. According to a few reviews on SuperMoney and Reddit, they caution prospective cardholders about high interest rates and late payment fees. Some even go as far as claiming that the card is a scam or fraudulent due to the excessive fees. So, it is crucial for potential cardholders to thoroughly read the terms and conditions before applying.
In terms of store credit cards, it is essential to compare other options. Each card will have its unique set of rewards, interest rates, and fees. A comprehensive comparison will allow potential cardholders to make an informed decision based on their spending habits, preferences, and photography needs.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with the B&H Credit Card will differ depending on their financial situation, credit history, and photography requirements. Some individuals may find the card beneficial and advantageous, while others may not. Ultimately, it is up to each person to carefully consider their specific circumstances before deciding if this credit card is the right choice for them.
Alternatives and Comparison
Comenity Capital Bank Credit Card
The Comenity Capital Bank Credit Card is an alternative, offering an array of benefits. To start, this card has:
- Fair or better credit requirement: If your credit score is above 650, you will have good approval odds.
- Financing options: Comenity Capital Bank allows cardholders to spread payments, possibly over several months.
- Reward points: Collect points on every purchase, redeemable for rewards or statement credit.
However, be sure to consider the following drawbacks:
- Fees: The card may impose certain fees, including late payment and balance transfer fees.
- Limited rewards: Comenity Capital Bank Credit Cards might not provide the same range of rewards as B&H or Amazon cards.
Amazon Credit Card
Another viable alternative is the Amazon Credit Card. Key benefits of this card include:
- Rewards: With the Amazon Credit Card, earn up to 5% cashback on Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market, 2% at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
- No annual fee: Like the B&H card, the Amazon Credit Card is a low-maintenance option with no annual fee.
- Financing: Amazon offers its cardholders promotional financing on select purchases, with interest-free payments for a specified period.
However, it also comes with some limitations:
- Credit score requirement: The Amazon Credit Card typically requires a good or excellent credit score, which might limit your approval odds if your score is lower.
- Limited flexibility: Rewards are specific to Amazon and affiliated stores, potentially limiting their value if you shop elsewhere.
In conclusion, when comparing B&H, Comenity Capital Bank, and Amazon Credit Cards, carefully weigh the benefits, credit score requirements, and limitations to find the card that best suits your needs and preferences.
Eligibility and Regulations
The B&H credit card, also known as the Payboo Card, has certain eligibility requirements and regulations. Applicants must be aware of these factors before applying for the card. While the card offers numerous benefits, there are some restrictions on where it can be used and who can apply for it.
One condition for eligibility is the eligible state of the applicant. The tax-equivalent loyalty reward offer, a significant benefit of the Payboo Card, is not applicable in Alabama, District of Columbia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming. People living in these regions may not enjoy the same level of benefits compared to those living in other states.
Financial responsibility is another essential aspect of the B&H credit card. The card comes with a 0% APR rate on new purchases for up to 12 months, which is attractive for many. However, it has a variable purchase APR of 29.99% after the introductory period. Therefore, cardholders should ensure timely payments to avoid paying high interest fees.
SuperMoney, a platform offering financial product reviews, discloses the relationships with its advertising-supported service partners. As a result, some featured placements of sponsored products and services may influence the way B&H credit cards are presented or reviewed. SuperMoney’s platform also contains user-generated content that may further affect the overall perception of the Payboo Card.
Lastly, applicants should be aware of the regulations surrounding credit card applications. For example, Citi has specific rules for how frequently you can apply for credit cards. You can only apply for one card (personal or business) every eight days and no more than two cards in a 65-day window. You can only apply for one business card every 90 days. These regulations should be taken into consideration when planning and applying for the B&H credit card.
Being informed about eligibility and regulations will help potential cardholders make a well-informed decision when considering the B&H credit card. Paying attention to eligible states, financial responsibility, the SuperMoney disclosure, advertising-supported services, and application regulations will play a crucial role in determining the suitability of the Payboo Card for your needs.
Credit Reporting and Impact
B&H offers a credit card known as the B&H Payboo Card. Like other credit cards, the B&H Payboo Card’s issuer regularly reports cardholders’ credit usage and payment history to major credit bureaus like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This reporting means that responsible usage of the B&H Payboo Card can positively affect your overall credit score, while irresponsible usage can have negative consequences.
When you apply for the B&H Payboo Card or any other credit card, the issuer conducts a hard inquiry on your credit report. This inquiry may cause a temporary dip in your credit score. However, the effect of hard inquiries on credit scores is generally minimal, as inquiries account for only 10% of your overall credit score.
Once approved for the B&H Payboo Card, maintaining responsible credit usage is essential. Keeping your balance low and making on-time payments can positively impact your credit score. On the other hand, late payments or high credit utilization can negatively impact your score, as can defaulting on the card.
Cardholders who consistently pay off their B&H Payboo Card balance can benefit from the card’s unique feature: instant tax savings. By selecting the “Payboo Savings” option during checkout and using the B&H Payboo Card for the purchase, applicable tax savings are instantly deducted from the shopping total. This unique feature sets the B&H Payboo Card apart from other store credit cards and can lead to significant savings on purchases over time.
In summary, the B&H Payboo Card, like any other credit card, has the potential to impact your credit score and overall credit profile. To maintain a healthy credit score, ensure responsible usage, make timely payments, and monitor your credit reports regularly with the three main credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Taxes and Billing
The B&H Payboo credit card offers a unique way to deal with sales tax on purchases made through B&H. Upon approval, the Payboo card provides instant savings on the sales tax for eligible orders. The amount of sales tax saved is applied as a reward directly on your purchase, which effectively cancels out the sales tax you would otherwise have to pay.
Billing with the B&H Payboo credit card is done in billing cycles, just like any other credit card. This means you’ll receive a monthly statement that includes details such as the outstanding balance, payment due date, and minimum payment required. For the best experience, make sure to pay your balance in full within the specified billing period in order to avoid interest charges.
The interest rate (APR) for new B&H Payboo accounts is 29.99%, which is significantly higher than the average credit card interest rate of 17.72%. It’s important to keep this in mind when using the card for purchases that you may not be able to pay off immediately.
Some customers may have questions or concerns about how the Payboo card affects their taxes. It is important to note that using the card will not impact your overall tax obligations, as the instant savings simply act as a method to offset sales tax at the time of purchase. You will still need to report any required sales tax information when filing your tax return.
In summary, the B&H Payboo credit card presents an attractive option for those looking to save on sales tax for B&H purchases. By providing instant savings on eligible orders, it effectively cancels out the sales tax and allows customers to enjoy a tax-free shopping experience. Be sure to pay your balance within the billing period to avoid high interest charges, and enjoy the benefits of this unique credit card offering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the interest rate?
The interest rate for the B&H Payboo Credit Card may vary depending on individual creditworthiness. Please refer to the card’s terms and conditions for specific rate information.
How does B&H credit work?
B&H offers the Payboo Credit Card, which can be used for purchases at B&H Photo Video, either online or in their NYC SuperStore. The card enables customers to save on taxes when paying with Payboo, effectively providing a discount equivalent to the sales tax.
Is B&H reputable?
B&H Photo Video is a well-known and reputable retailer of photography, video, and audio equipment. They have been in business for over 40 years and are known for offering a wide selection of products, competitive prices, and excellent customer service.
Does B&H report to bureaus?
As a store credit card, the B&H Payboo Credit Card is issued by Comenity Capital Bank, which may report your account activity to credit bureaus. Maintaining a good payment history and keeping credit utilization low can help improve your credit score.
What’s B&H credit card approval odds?
Approval odds for the B&H Payboo Credit Card depend on your credit history and financial situation. While specific approval criteria may vary, applicants with higher credit scores and stable incomes are more likely to be approved.
How’s Payboo Card reviewed?
The Payboo Card has been positively reviewed by customers, particularly for its ability to save on sales tax. This can be beneficial for those who frequently purchase gear from B&H. However, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against any potential interest costs if you don’t plan to pay off the balance each month.
