What exactly are convenience checks?

Question

I *just* got my first credit card! Yay me!

I know people are against credit cards, but it's from my bank and they are lovely and incredible. I digress, I generally order stuff without actually submitting the order in order to find out what the item is if I'm unsure. Anyhow, I just ordered some and was wondering if someone could tell me what exactly they are. Are they just like checks? And if so, what purpose do they serve? Does the amount of the check come out of the card? All of your responses are greatly appreciated :)

Answer 1

Unless the checks are specifically for a special balance transfer teaser rate, convenience checks for a credit card are a way to take a cash advance (at a usually higher interest rate than purchases).

There is a fee for cash advance, or almost always a balance transfer fee for balance transfer checks, and interest for either starts adding up immediately.

You should avoid taking cash advances unless absolutely necessary (due to the cost).  If you get to the point that you start using cash advances to pay other credit card bills, you are in too deep (overspending your income).