Friday, August 29, 2008

Why Do We Face Problems Regarding Debts

Category: Finance, Credit.

Sometimes you meet people who are having a sound financial status, where they do take loans and manage it very well.



Almost every debt problem has a solution, even the worst case scenarios too. But for those who are learning it the hard way, there is a, do not worry debt solution to your problem as well. So relax and read on to find out the solution to your problems. Sometimes it is the absence of a debt management plan and sometimes it is due to events that have happened exogenously, like loss of job, loss of an earning member in the family, some emergency situation that needed financial support or poor health conditions are some of the most frequent reasons. Why do we face problems regarding debts? As a result, people fail to pay the instalments. But is there a solution?


And when they fail to pay instalments for many loans or for many months together, it leads to a debt problem. Yes. One of the most frequently used tools is debt consolidation loans. There are many solutions available today. Debt consolidation loans are loans that one takes to consolidate all the existing loans and pay them off in one single move. And with debt consolidation loan, you need to pay only for one loan, that s it!


This helps in getting rid of all the loans instantly and also saves money on payment of interest for months after months. There are many institutes and agencies today that provide debt solution to people who are in trouble. It is easy to get in touch with such agencies through phone or through emails. Sometimes they will suggest tips and tricks to get rid of the problems you are facing, and sometimes they will step between you and your lender to negotiate with them and chalk out a debt solution.

Read more...

Credit Control - Finance and Credit Articles:

From the moment you have your first business idea, through the periods of growth and development, Inksmoor and our Business Partners can provide the debtor and funding solutions to help make that path easier.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

How Student Loan Consolidation Works

Category: Finance, Credit.

Student being students, they have a bit of a tendency to spend more than they bring in: -).



And yet when the time comes for a bit of maturity, it s vital to make the step to clear those unwanted and often expensively accumulated student debts while you can. It goes with the territory! With student loan consolidation, that s where many students can take advantage of clearing everything so that it s under one roof. This form of consolidation is really convenient way to pay off your often high interest rate debts( like credit cards, amongst others for example) . There are a number of agencies out there just waiting for your call, so that they can offer the perfect consolidation deal that is just right for you. How would it be if you could swap all these odd payments for one monthly payment at a great rate of interest?


So, let s take a look at how it works in practice then. Yep, it surely is one excellent idea. How Student Loan Consolidation Works. It helps you gain control over your spending and much more effectively plan your budgeting, as well as giving you more money each month too! Student loan consolidation is about reducing your monthly payments overall as well as simplifying the repayment method. You get all your deals together and just owe to one lender, merging your previous loans into one single payment, which is far easier to track, as well as much more difficult to screw up and get behind with.


There are lots of positives in student loan consolidation, like lower rates of interest( often locked in at preferential lower interest rates) ; lower payments going out each month. With your student life behind you, it s a good time to move onwards and upwards! Less hassle with only one deal to watch out for and usually, you can get a longer repayment period, which helps lower the payments even more. Want A Better Credit Rating? These deals often depend on you getting things sorted out within a few months of graduating, so don t you dare miss out! Then Consolidate! And a track record of regular payments, that you don t miss, is always regarded as a top point- scorer by the credit rating agencies.


Student loan consolidation will also help you get a much better credit rating, because you will find it easier to make regular payments when you have to pay less. Look, as you emerge from the financial black hole of your student life, you haven t had much chance to generate a good credit history. So using student loan consolidation to help your financial credibility is a real wow factor! And this is likely to hold you back in the future when you might want more credit, like for a mortgage maybe. Consolidation of your varied student loans can drop your monthly payments, virtually overnight and change your life( and credit rating, of course) , for the better. And when did students show much common sense!


Student Loan Consolidation Makes Great Sense. Well, if you are serious about getting ahead in the grown- up world, maybe it s time. More monthly income. And what is there to lose here? Less debts. Consolidation is among the most critical and useful decisions new graduates and former students can make. Better loan schedule.


Are you crazy- or are you smart? Now is the time to use a student loan consolidation deal as your big leap forward!

Monday, August 25, 2008

So, What Is A Home Equity Loan

Category: Finance, Credit.

Are you in debt? If you haven t, you might have heard this suggestion from someone else.



Have you refinanced your debt? So, what is a home equity loan? It is the amount of ownership you have in your house or the amount of cash you will receive from selling your house today. First, lets explain what home equity is. This equity in your house is what lenders let you borrow against. Very similar is the concept of a HELOC( Home Equity Line of Credit) . A loan against this equity in your house is called a home equity loan.


Unlike a loan which is a fixed amount. Originally, the HELOC was given out for financing improvements around the house. The line of credit is like having a credit card with a maximum limit of course. These days the HELOC is used for several other purposes. The key here is that the interest on other forms of debt is not tax deductible whereas on these equity loans is. So, how is the HELOC or the home equity loan different from any other form of debt.


Lets have a look at an example. So, you would be able to make purchases like you would with a regular credit card. Lets say you have a HELOC with a limit of$ 20000 at an interest rate of 10% . But, the interest that would accumulate on the amount owed would be tax deductible unlike a regular credit card. You generally have a significant credit line at your disposal for emergency use. As you have probably noticed, there are some key advantages of this form of credit. The payments you will make can be kept low because the interest terms are usually lower than most credit cards.


If you had the option of using a card with the same interest terms as your HELOC you would still be better off using the latter. Don t forget that the interest owed is tax- deductible too. If you are serious about controlling your debt rather than letting your debt control you, a home equity loan could be a an ideal tool for you. To help you with these calculations there are calculators for debt available online. You should calculate the amount of money you would be spending in the form of payments and interest over the total life of the debt in both cases i. e. in the case of a credit card and in the case of a HELOC. Before leaving we would want to offer a suggestion. Limit its use to buying investments or for any emergency situations.


Don t fall in the trap of impulse buying using your HELOC. According to us thats the best use of it.

Read more...

Repay You Credit Card Bills On Time - Finance and Credit Articles:

If your current credit situation is not as good as it could be you need to be responsible when using credit.

This Includes The Suppliers For Card Equipment And Materials - Finance and Credit:

It seems such a long time ago when possessing a credit card, the rectangular small piece of plastic that easily fits in your wallet was considered a luxury.

Be Vigilant For The Mortgage Lead Companies That Find Their Leads Via Web Sites They Operate - Finance and Credit Blog:

Be vigilant for the mortgage lead companies that find their leads via web sites they operate.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

American Express Credit Cards

Category: Finance, Credit.

If you live in Florida and wish to own a Florida credit card, then there are several companies out there that can give you excellent credit cards with the best rates.



But assuming that we are talking about credit cards that are available in Florida, let us look at some of the popular cards that are available in Florida. Technically, there is no such thing as a Florida credit card that is made exclusively for people in Florida. American Express Credit Cards. American express has a horde of credit cards for all kinds of people, businesses and services. When it comes to credit cards, can anyone beat Amex? There are certain popular types of cards like the Amex card for small businesses which have its own range of benefits and incentives.


The business platinum card with an unlimited spending is one of the most popular Florida credit cards. There are specialized cards like travelers cards, fuel cards etc, cashback cards as well. It also has no annual fees or charges. With each purchase of yours using the cards, you can earn points. The APR on it is 0% for the first 12 months. The points have no expiry and can be redeemed for great offers from the best names in travel, Shopping etc. Chase Bank Florida Credit Cards.


All in all, an American Express Florida credit card is a great way to shop. Chase bank also has its own range of different credit cards. The flexible rewards card is the most popular one in chase credit cards. It includes multi purpose credit cards, general cards etc, specialized credit cards. It has no annual fees and charges a 0% APR for the first year. The points can be redeemed later on for great offers in travel, cinemas etc.


For every dollar that you spend with the card, you get one point. You also get 1000 bonus points after your first purchase. You can get the best discounts on things that you buy off amazon. com using this card. If you are a frequent buyer on amazon. com, then chase Florida credit cards has a great card in the Amazon business card. It also has a separate category of entertainment cards which are great for anyone looking at steal deals in movie tickets etc. There is a reason why Citibank has always been the leader in credit card and banking services.


Citibank Florida Credit Cards. Some of the services that Citibank offers on its cards are unmatched. The citigold advantage world MasterCard is one of the best Florida credit cards that you can ever get. You cannot beat Citibank when it comes to credit cards. It has a 0$ liability service. It is the best card for a frequent flier with some of the best frequent miles give out programs. That means that you have nothing to worry about even if your card falls into wrong hands.


However, this card has a$ 50 annual fee and an APR of 149% . The Citibank driver s edge Florida credit card is also very popular amongst the vehicle owners in Florida. But yet, it is worth the charges. It has an introductory 0% rate for the first year. Even after the first introductory year, the card only has a variable rate of 149% . Any purchase that you make using the card on lease or purchase of a vehicle will offer a 5% rebate.


These are some of the best Florida credit cards that you can get. So, happy card shopping in Florida! There are many other cards that you will get, but none will offer you services as good as these cards do.

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Everyone in today s society likes to drive automobiles.

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The Citi PremierPass card, either for your business or personal needs, is easily one of the best travel rewards cards on the market today.

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First of all, you can take comfort in the fact that you are not the only one fighting credit card debt problems.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Example+ 56 786 7865655 What Do Credit Card Issuers Do To Protect You

Category: Finance, Credit.

When it comes to credit cards, far more risk can be out there other than debt you are not able to afford or an accumulation of expenses that you were not fully aware of prior to entering into the contract. But, what can you do with your credit card to ensure that you are far less likely to be a statistic, and far more likely to be a happy credit card user, and less concerns, with no problems.



With credit cards, risks exist that are entirely out of the hands of consumers, and these risks can be reduced by prudent and careful actions. Take Care of your credit card to ensure that you know where it is at all time, whilst making sure that you don t leave it unattended. If you have multiple cards then issuers will sometimes allow you to register all these together, meaning that you can cancel your cards with only one telephone call. Have multiple cards? This will mean less chance of fraud, through giving a thief less time. If you have lost your purse or wallet you literally have no time to spare.


Lost your purse or wallet? Get on the phone to your credit card company immediately even if you are unsure if your card has been lost through theft or you merely misplacing it. Be sure to report any unusual transactions, unless you give, and remember that permission, no company can withdraw money from your credit card even if payment is late. Keep Notes of all your credit card transactions, and then you can be sure that you have been, or have not been, a victim of credit card theft. Keep your PIN number private by trying to remember it. For example: Mr. Clever ways of noting this secretly include listing it amongst other telephone numbers and perhaps placing it at the end of standard digits.


Example+ 56 786 7865655 What do credit card Issuers do to protect you? They insure your purchase for as much as 100 days. They will insure you against misuse, loss and theft. They will provide a refund in the case that you are unhappy with what you buy. To date, the credit card industry has been sensible enough to incur expenses association with credit card theft and fraud on behalf of their customers, whilst this continues customers can be safer, knowing they are less likely to suffer as a result. Credit card fraud, thefts and mishaps are something that nobody wants to experience, however through careful planning and consideration these risks can be reduced dramatically, ensuring that you are less likely to get into trouble, than those who are less prudent and more care free.

Read more...

You May Not File A New Bankruptcy Request For Six Years - Finance and Credit Articles:

If you are considering bankruptcy, you ll need to know what to expect during each phase of the process after filing.

Friday, August 22, 2008

Credit Card 101

Category: Finance, Credit.

The emergence of electronic age made almost everything possible to people. Everyday life of people is made easy by the technology.



Determining and curing terminal diseases made convenient, reaching uncharted territories became a possibility, and most of all. We now have more convenient stores, easier means of transportation and a variety of gadgets that makes work and pleasure almost effortless. Among the so many financial management schemes that emerged, one alternative stands out among the rest the credit card. When it comes to finances, technology through efficient banking system and services has given people better alternatives and options how to manage their finances. Credit card, especially to working people and those who live very busy lives, has become an ultimate financial savior . But, more than the glamour and the convenience credit card brings, there is much more to this card than most people could ever imagine. More than just being a status symbol or an add- on to expensive purses and wallets, credit card has revolutionized the way people spend their money.


Credit Card 101. In layman s terms, credit card is a card that allows a person to make purchases up to the limit set by the card issuer. Before indulging much into the never- ending list of the advantages and disadvantages of having a credit card, it is very important for people to first have a brief realization of what credit card really is in order for them to maximize its potentials. One must then pay off the balance in instalments with interest payments. And since it is a form of business, the longer the credit card holders wait to pay off his or her entire amount, the more interest pile up. Usually, credit card payment per month ranges from the minimum amount set by the bank to entire outstanding balance. Since having a credit card is a responsibility, only those people who are of legal age and have the capability to pay off the amount they are going to spend through their credit card, is allowed to have one.


S. use credit card because this is very convenient compared to carrying cash or checks every time they have to purchase something. Actually, most of the adults in the U. It is also equally important to be familiar with the different types of credit cards before you begin to build up credit card balances and to avoid having a nightmare of debt. All of these types come in one of two interest rate options the fixed and variable. Since credit cards are indispensable to most consumers, it is a must that they understand the types of card that include charge cards, retail cards, bankcards, gold cards and secured cards. Actually, it doesn t really matter if you decide to have a fixed- rate credit card because the interest rate remains the same.


Basically, credit card grantors issue three types of accounts with basic account agreements like the revolving agreement a. k. a. Compared to variable rate cards where rate may be subject to change depends upon the credit card issuer s discretion, fixed- rate carry higher interest rates. Typical Credit Card Account which allows the payer to pay in full monthly or prefer to have partial payments based on outstanding balance. Another category of credit card accounts includes the individual and joint accounts where the former asks the individual alone to repay the debt while the latter requires the partners responsible to pay. While the Charge Agreement requires the payer to pay the full balance monthly so they won t have to pay the interest charges, on the other, the Instalment Agreement hand, asks the payer to sign a contract to repay a fixed amount of credit in equal payments in definite period of time. The common types of credit cards available through banks and other financial institutions also include Standard Credit Cards like Balance Transfer Credit Cards and Low Interest Credit Cards.


Credit Cards for Bad Credit like Secured Credit Cards and Prepaid Debit Cards. Credit Cards with Rewards Programs like Airline Miles Credit Cards, Cash Back Credit Cards and Rewards Credit Cards. And Specialty Credit Cards like Business Credit Cards and Student Credit Cards. Some of the things you should consider is how will you spend with the credit card monthly, if you plan to carry a balance at the end of the month, how much are you willing to pay in annual fees, if you have a strong credit history and is does your credit in need of rehabilitation. Now that you have an idea how many types of credit card there is, it is now time to review your goals before applying for one. Once you have an idea of what you are looking for choose the right credit card for you by researching the information you need that will fit your basic needs. Shopping for a credit card?


You may also review the credit cards you ve research and compare them. Regardless of the type of credit card you choose, be sure to discuss your specific financial needs with your financial advisor or accountant before applying for any credit card. The most popular credit cards include Chase Manhattan Bank, Bank of America, Citibank, BankOne, Discover Card, American Express, First Premier Bank, HSBC Bank, Advanta, and MasterCard Credit Cards. It is a must that you understand the benefits of having a credit card like safety, valuable consumer protections under the law, and the accessibility and availability of services. Although having a credit card is synonymous to invincibility, this may also trigger a person s thirst for material things and may lead into the temptation of buying something they don t really need. If they don t use it carefully, these may owe more than they can repay. A credit card bearer should always have in min that having a credit card is a big responsibility.


It can also damage their credit report, and create credit problems that are quite difficult to repair.

Read more...

Loyalty Cards - Gena Chachere's Finance and Credit blog:

Although credit cards are often seen as bad guys, fines for late, with high interest payment and that nagging temptation to spend little more, disciplined borrowers can earn some great rewards just by taking out the right kind of card. What s on offer?

Are You Deciding If You Should Apply For A Credit Card Well, If You Are, To Be Frank Like Many Of Us, Living In The Civilized World, Should I Apply, The Answer To For A Credit Card Is, Yes - Finance and Credit:

Are you deciding if you should apply for a credit card Well, if you are, to be frank like many of us, living in the civilized world, should I apply, the answer to for a credit card is, yes. In fact, credit cards are a contemporary, financial revolution.

Do You Even Need Their Credit Card - Finance and Credit Blog:

Imagine this.

Credit Card Companies Send Millions Of Offers To Consumers Each Year

Category: Finance, Credit.

If you re like most people you have probably received your share of pre- approved credit card offers in the mail. Although many of these offers simply go ignored or discarded, there are some that offer great benefit.



Credit card companies send millions of offers to consumers each year. Let s examine how you can benefit from what may have initially been thought of as junk mail. This could save you hundreds( sometimes thousands) of dollars depending on the average balances on your high interest credit cards. Many of these pre- approved credit card offers provide competitive rates, and an opportunity to transfer balances from higher interests rate credit cards to a lower rate for a limited time period. One of the most popular pre- approved credit card offers is from Chase bank. Although this offer usually applies to a specific credit card listed in their offer, it may not be the card best suited for your current needs.


Chase often sends offers directing potential customers to sendmethecard to apply. The fact that you received the pre- approved offer is an indication of a preliminary credit check which the bank has undertaken. There is a simply way of taking advantage of your pre- approved status and getting the card best suited for your needs. The only problem is the credit card company has chosen the card they would like you to receive instead of you choosing the card best suited for your needs. Since you are already pre- approved, simply use your pre- approved status to choose the card you wish. For example if you received an offer for a specific card such as the Chase Platinum card from sendmethecard. com, it is likely you will be approved for the Chase Freedom Card that offers benefits better suited for your financial needs. It is very unlikely that the credit card company will turn you down since it is better to have you as a customer than not.


So the next time you receive a sendmethecard or similar pre- approved credit card offer in the mail, be sure to use it to get the card you want. Turn that pesky offer into extra cash in your mailbox. You are not limited to the specific card the credit card company has chosen for you in the offer.

Read more...

Business Credit Cards Are An Ideal Way To Fund A Growing Business - Casandra Hawkins's Finance and Credit blog:

Credit cards can be useful for business as well as for personal use.

The Pressures Created By Credit Card Debt Are Enormous - Finance and Credit Blog:

Holding one or more credit cards accounts can be a very convenient way of handling your finances in today s society, and while there are definite advantages to having the extra credit facility, it is important to exercise a level of control in the way you use these accounts.

Credit Repair Can Be Easy If You Have The Right Tools - Finance and Credit Blog:

Credit Repair can be easy if you have the right tools. This" how to" article is written in terms that are easy to understand and cut through the legal jargon.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Getting A Student Credit Card Is Not Hard To Do

Category: Finance, Credit.

Getting a student credit card is not hard to do. Your student should not be carrying large sums of cash each month to get through the month.



The problem comes in how it is used. It could easily be lost or stolen. While we were at school he couldn t remember from one day to the next what he had done the previous day, or where he put anything, including his money. I had a friend that was considered a genius. Another friend constantly ran out of money by the middle of the month and was either borrowing form other students or on the phone crying to his father about needing more. A student credit card may be the first line of credit your child has.


Not to say I was a saint, but that is another story. It will depend on the child if they understand the responsibilities of having one. You have a choice in that matter, because usually the student will need a co- signer for that card. Student credit cards can come with a monthly limit or with no limit at all except for the bank limit. In a credit based family a child may have signature loans by the time they are twelve. They used a well known institution for signature loans and he would take out six month to one year loans for music equipment that he was easily able to pay back in half the time.


My uncle was one of those people. By the time he was sixteen his credit rating soared and to this day he has no problems with getting what he wants when he wants it. A student credit card should not be a gift and should not be considered a gift by the parents. Most of us are not that lucky however, and some students just are not driven by desire. The students themselves should be mentally- aware of how to handle finances. If it was lost or spent, you may need to start worrying.


If your child is one of those that still has a quarter when you give them the second one a week later, then chances are they can handle a credit card. For the sake of the article we will assume that, there is no, while yet unproven indication that your student will use the credit card for junk. Keep in mind that a cola and pizza a day adds up to over$ 4475 plus tips, in credit over a year! First sit down with the student and decide what the credit card will be used for. The sum does not take into consideration other meals and snacks. Try to remember your eating habits when you were a student.


A single candy bar at a school could easily add up to$ 365 dollars in credit over a year, if they only ate one a day. Dormitory, books and tuition, apartment rent should be paid by check. If you are giving support to your student you can setup an auto withdrawal from your bank account each month to payoff the student credit card payments. If there is a car involved it should also be paid for by check, unless you and your student are familiar with online banking and the great benefits a good system offers. The credit card can be great for just about anything but it, just like everything else, needs to be in moderation, and I mean moderation within your budget, not necessarily the students budget. Make sure you pay attention to the all of the details of the card, and all of its terms and conditions. After you have decided on what the credit card will be used for go online and start searching.


Above all, make sure there is an automatic bill payment feature so the card is never paid late.

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The Sony Card By Visa Can Help - Renee Eilers about Finance and Credit:

Sony has been the name in electronics for years, and as our electronic devices continue to take over our lives, isn t it time you saved some money on everything you buy?

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It feels great when you get money back from using your credit cards. Is that really a good thing?

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Bad credit is a poor credit rating. Poor financial management leads to bad credit.

Monday, August 18, 2008

Nearly Three Quarters Of All Credit Reports Contain Errors

Category: Finance, Credit.

Your credit report contains so much information about you and your spending habits that it can be difficult to make heads or tails of it. The three main credit reporting agencies all use different formats and setups.



The first thing that you should know though, is that not all credit reports will look exactly the same. Another thing to keep in mind: creditors may not report to all three reporting agencies which means that information contained in one report might not show up in another. this is why it is extremely important to order all three reports at once and review them simultaneously. At the top of your report will be personal information about you: your name, employment, addresses, etc. OK, now that you have all three credit reports in front of you, let us get started. Quickly go over this to make sure it is all correct. The next section of your report is dedicated to adverse or negative accounts. A simple typo on something as simple as your name could spell big trouble later, so examine your report carefully.


This includes all late payments, collections, charge offs, foreclosures, bankruptcies, liens, etc. Pay special attention to the balance owed and original balance. For each account there will be a lot of information. Check to see who the creditor is. There will also be a section dedicated to creditor information and a notation telling you when the file is expected to drop off of your credit report. For files sent to collection, you may have to look at the original creditor to figure out what the debt was for.


In the next section you will find all of your satisfactory accounts. Next you will find inquiries. This includes all accounts that have been paid off or are being paid off as agreed. Inquiries can be broken down into three categories: regular inquires, promotional inquiries and account review inquiries. These are inquiries that you initiate when you apply for credit. You only need to worry about the first type.


If you see something that does not make sense in any of the above sections, take note of it. You can find out more information about the entry by contacting the company who is responsible for the entry. In most cases, the phone number and contact information for each entry will be directly underneath the entry. Keep a list of anything that does not seem quite right. Wrapping up your credit report is information on your rights and how to go about disputing an error on your report. You will refer to this list when it comes time to dispute entries on your credit report. If your report contains any errors or if you have questions concerning your report, you should use all of the resources available until the issue is resolved or your questions are answered.


Yours may be one of them. Nearly three quarters of all credit reports contain errors.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

How Can You Avoid Being A Victim Of Such Credit Card Fraud

Category: Finance, Credit.

Credit cards have come a long way since it was first used in the US in 1920 s. Along with it, credit card fraud is also becoming a growing trend for modern day thieves.



Today it is enjoying global popularity in almost any kind of business available. All they need to steal is just your credit card number and voila, everything else follows. That leaves you to pay for these goods regardless of how expensive they may be. The next thing you know, your credit card has been used by another person who lives a thousand miles away, even from another country or continent, to make his own purchases. Even though you have been exercising self- control in spending, you may still end up with bad credit. How can you avoid being a victim of such credit card fraud? In the credit bureaus eyes, you are guilty until proven innocent. 10 Quick and Easy Steps You Can Take To Protect Your Credit From Identity Thieves.


Take a look at these precautions and spare yourself the trouble: Never give your credit card number or any other credit card information to anyone. Do not write your credit card details or your PIN anywhere. Whether over the phone or through email, don t give out any detail especially when you are told that it s for verification purposes only. Make sure that your list of these information is hidden in a safe place. Never put down your credit card where it is possible for you to forget them. Don t leave your card unattended.


Don t put it on places where other people can have a good view on the card number. Ideally, it is better to carry your credit card in a separate pouch or compartment. Don t put it in your wallet. Don t put all your credit cards in one place and take only the credit card you need to use. When making purchases at stores or supermarkets, keep an eye on your credit card at all times and ensure that you get it back as quickly as possible. Keep an eye on it. Shred anything that contains your credit card number like used receipts, credit applications or past billing statements.


Although many businesses have started to remove your credit card number from the receipt there are still merchants that don t do that. Don t just throw them in the trash bin, make sure that they are ripped and torn to pieces. Its up to you to make sure to destroy those receipts with your credit card number on them. Always check that your credit card bills are correct and that there are no extra charges for anything you did not purchase. Never enter your credit card information on a non- secured website. If you find any incorrect detail, call your credit card issuer immediately and point out these errors. If you re credit card is stolen, immediately report it to the credit card issuers.


If you have a change of address, advise your credit card issuers at once. By law, lost credit cards or theft releases you from any responsibility or unauthorized charges made. Putting these steps into practice could save you from a lot of frustration. If you would be asked to pay, the maximum liability required by the Federal Law is only$ 5 Most of the above steps are really simple actions that are frequently overlooked by many people. If you have any complaint regarding credit card fraud or you want more information, you may visit www. ftc. gov or call toll- free, 1- 877- FTC- HELP( 1- 877- 382- 4357) ; TTY: 1- 866- 653- 426

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Credit Card Debt- It Seems We Are Drowning In It

Category: Finance, Credit.

Credit card debt- it seems we are drowning in it. Many of us have multiple credit cards with different balances meaning that each month we have to go through and make sure each one gets paid- and all too often we pay and pay without seeing as much as a dent being made in the balance thanks to interest charges!



Each year, Americans rack up more and more credit card debt and it becomes harder and harder to pay them off it seems. If you are trapped under a mountain of credit card debt, there is hope. In fact, you won t even need to spend$ 1 more than you already are paying on the cards- we are just going to allocate that dollar a little differently. We re going to show you how you can manage that debt and get it paid off in record time by following a very simple principal. Of course, if you want to allocate a few more dollars towards the cards it will make the whole process go a bit smoother. First, find out which one has the highest interest rate- that is going to be the one we tackle first. Let s say that you have four credit cards, each with different balances and interest rates.


Why? We all know that credit card companies like to raise rates at any time for any reason. Because it is the interest charges that trap many consumers. Five minutes late with a payment and they raise the rate to something astronomical! Now that you know which card carries the highest interest we are going to tackle it to get it paid off the fastest. Well, we are going to beat them at their own this time around. On your other three cards, you are just going to make the minimum payment required.


We are not even going to think about the other cards other than making sure we get that minimum payment in on time. Any extra money you have from your credit card payment budget( you do have a budget, right? ) we are going to use to put towards that card. We are going to concentrate the majority of our time, money and effort on the one with the highest interest. Make sure you are paying the minimum on it plus some- if you have to give up lunch for a while, do it! All the excess funds you have for your credit cards, after you ve paid the minimum on the other three, are going to go to the one with the highest interest. You are going to continue doing this every month- paying the minimum on the other three, and allocating all your extra funds towards the one with the highest interest.


We re decreasing the balance on the card with the highest interest. What are we doing? Every month your interest charges for it will continue to go down as you pay the balance off- and each month it will go down by a bigger amount even if you continue sending in the same payment! When you get the first card paid off, take all the money you were paying towards it PLUS the money you were paying towards the card with the 2nd highest interest- now you are sending all that money in every month. Now are you ready to really see your balances drop? You ve doubled up!


It gets even better! The balance will drop like a rock! Wait until you ve paid off two cards and now are taking the money from the 1st card you paid off, the 2nd card you paid off and the money from the 3rd card you are paying on- faster than you can say" Charge it! " that balance will drop. Before you know it- you could be debt free! This technique works because as we pay off a card, instead of pocketing that money or spending it on something else we are using it to increase our payments on another- the domino effect kicks in as we pay off more cards until we are paying off the balances quicker and quicker. Now, the important thing to remember here is this: You can t be running out and using these cards every month or this won t work! Hide and lock up your other cards to resist the temptation.


If you have to have one card for travel, business or expenditures then make sure you pick one card and stick to one card. Give this trick a try, and you will find in just a few short months you will be seeing the light at the end of the credit card tunnel!

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

This Is Particularly The Case With Credit Cards

Category: Finance, Credit.

One of the most important ways to keep track of your finances is to regularly review your statements.



Where it might be easy to forget what items have been purchased on it and how much you will be able to repay come the end of the month. This is particularly the case with Credit Cards. Each month it is important to check your statement thoroughly. If errors do occur on the statement it is imperative that you contact the credit card company immediately to register the problem, as it could become difficult to rectify the problem once you have begun paying back what is owed. Not only is this important as a way to keep track of your finances, it is a vital way to ensure that any instance of Credit Card fraud is discovered as early as possible and dealt with. The internet is now increasingly being used by savvy consumers to keep track of their finances and checking on credit card transactions is no exception to this.


Using the internet to keep a check on your Credit Cards spending means that you will not have to wait until the end of the month to see how much you need to repay, therefore allowing much greater control over your own finances. Online security has become incredibly tight over recent years, making it much harder for hackers to gain access to financial details and giving consumers greater peace of mind when banking online. However, where using the internet is not an option, it can prove useful to keep a list of what you spend on a credit card in the old- fashioned form of a pen and paper. This works equally as well as checking online- provided you always remember to note down your credit card spending- and means you can avoid going over- budget without realising it.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

If You Use Your Credit Card A Lot, This Can Add Up Pretty Nicely

Category: Finance, Credit.

It feels great when you get money back from using your credit cards. Is that really a good thing?



It gives you a reason to use them and you feel as though you are benefitting from shopping as you would anyhow. Perhaps, perhaps not. Cash rewards credit cards pay you back a percentage of what you spend on them. That depends on you. Basic purchases generally have up to 1% cash back, while other purchases may get 5% or more back, depending on the terms of the card. But that does not mean it's worth it. If you use your credit card a lot, this can add up pretty nicely.


Why Not? Effectively, this takes back some of the cash rewards you would otherwise be getting. The first reason cash rewards may not be worth it for you is if the card charges an annual fee. A high annual fee is rarely worth it, especially if you only use your credit card minimally. This doesn' t really matter if you are not carrying a balance, but if you do carry a balance it can be a big deal. The second reason is that the interest rate you get is generally higher than you would be paying on a plain credit card, often by several percent. What About When It Is Worth It?


The first is what it takes to get the best rewards. If a cash rewards credit card is right for you and your spending habits there are a few things you want to look out for, beyond the interest rate and/ or annual fees. That" up to" 1% for most purchases- how do you get there? You will also know what maxes out your rewards. Is it within the range you are likely to spend? Some cards only allow you to get a certain amount of rebate back each year. When you are thinking about applying for a card, compare the various benefits of each.


You want to get your rewards for all your purchases, so make sure you pick a card that will give them to you. This will help you to decide which has the benefits that are right for you. That little bit of extra time spent choosing can save you money and allow you to earn more rewards. What appears to be the best card at first glance may not best suit you when you look more carefully. It is very much worth it.