Gas credit cards became quite popular in the early 1990s when the individual gas retailers were in bitter competition with one another. A gas credit card was a way of holding a consumer hostage by tying the purchasing privileges to only one kind of brand, oftentimes causing the customer to drive great distances out of their ways simply to purchase gas at Shell. Gas credit card issuance was also a good way of increasing in shop revenues for the gas station. Credit cards that could only be used for Amoco gas were credit cards that also could only be used for Amoco convenience shop purchases such as soda, coffee, food, cigarettes and beer. Yet while even the best gas credit card is a bit of a boat anchor with respect to usefulness, there are valid reasons for carrying a BP gas credit card or Shell gas credit cards.

Consider the business that uses a fleet of vehicles. Gas credit cards will permit the business owner to track fuel expenses and to also keep detailed records for the tax declarations later on. In addition to the foregoing, gas credit cards that could be handed out to employees would prevent the need for petty cash being given out while at the same time the issuers of the gas credit cards would send detailed statements that ensured that no unauthorized purchases were made. In this case, the gas credit cards became a most valuable tool for the business’ accountant.

Yet when it comes to the consumer, the best gas credit cards are the ones that are either gas rebate credit cards or otherwise tied to some kind of added benefit. In a day and age where choice is king, the idea of having even the best gas rebate credit card in your wallet when it can only be used at one location – or chain of locations – leaves something to be desired. Similarly, a gas only credit card is useless in a day and age when a credit card is so easy to apply for. Yet while the perks have failed to match the inconvenience, it is today’s gasoline crisis that has catapulted the gas rewards credit card to the top of the pile.

Not even business gas credit cards can combine the ability of an exact fuel accounting with the promise of a gasoline reward, such as $10 or even 10% off a qualifying purchase! If you are considering a personal or business gas credit card, make sure that it comes from a chain which you frequent often, which offers competitive pricing, convenient locations, and a great incentive package. Otherwise, you will be better served using your regular credit card and perhaps accumulating the airline miles or grocery rebates that this card offers.