Credit Cards

• 13.79% (all fixed)
• 14.38% (all variable)

Here's a look at the state of credit card rates from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts conducted Sept. 8, 2010.

After 11 weeks of stagnation, the average purchase APR on fixed-rate credit cards rose 5 basis points to 13.79 percent as one credit union changed six of its card offers from fixed to variable rate. The average variable rate increased to 14.38 percent, from 14.35 percent last week.

Notably, seven issuers lowered the penalty fees on their card offerings. A provision in the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 sets new limits on penalty fees, such as late and overlimit fees. Issuers can't charge more $25 for a one-time offense, and no more than $35 for multiple offenses of the same type in a six-month period, unless the issuer can show through a cost analysis that a higher fee is justified. In addition, the fee can't exceed the amount associated with the violation. A late payment fee for failing to make the minimum required payment of $15 on time can't be more than $15, for example.

Bankrate.com makes it easier to find low-rate credit cards and credit cards with rewards. You can search by issuer, card type or credit score.