Credit Cards

Most consumers only have to look as far as their mailbox for more credit card offers than they can, or should, accept. Pre-screened, pre-approved credit offers are very convenient. Many cards include rewards programs and other incentives to keep customers charging more and more with a particular card. In spite of the benefits of the cards in your wallet, there are potential problems as well. Learning the discipline necessary to use credit appropriately is one of the most important skills you can develop. The essential information found here will help you do just that.

• Smart Ways to Avoid New Debit Card Fees

  When you’re working to avoid building or adding to credit card debt, the smart choice has been to use cash or a debit card instead. A growing number of financial institutions, however, are starting to charge fees when you use your debit card to make a purchase, making it a bit more challenging to live a “cash only” lifestyle.

• New CARD Act Provides Clear & Simple Payment Rules

  With so many misconceptions floating around, it's time to set the record straight on what has changed following passage of the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure (CARD) Act of 2009.

• How New Debit Card Rules Could Change Your Next Shopping Experience

  Debit cards are gaining in popularity. According to “The Survey of Consumer Payment Choice,” released in April 2011 by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, 77% of consumers have a debit card. Additionally, the survey found that debit cards are the most commonly used payment instrument among consumers per month – ahead of cash, credit, and checks. Read how recent changes to debit card rules will affect banks, retailers, and your wallet.

• Prepaid Cards: A Smart Alternative to Credit Cards

  A smart alternative to credit cards is a prepaid VISA or MasterCard. The concept is simple: you decide how much money to load onto your card and you can only spend up to that amount, so you're always in control.

• How Does the Fair Credit and Charge Card Disclosure Act Help You?

  All those facts and figures on your credit card statements may be intimidating, but reading and using this information each month helps you stay in control of your finances.

• Credit Cards - Understanding Your Statement

  Ready to demystify your credit card statement? You may cringe at the thought of opening it each month, but understanding all the numbers and the fine print is important - on both the front and the back.

• Reduce Your Credit Card Debt And Save Money

  Are you only paying the minimum payment each month? If you increased your payment amount every month by as little as $10, you could pay down your debt much faster.

• Is A Secured Credit Card Right For You

  Do you understand the basics of a secured credit card? More importantly, should you be considering one for yourself?

• Who Has to Pay the Credit Card Bill?

  Do you share a credit card with someone else? Find out what it means to be a joint credit card holder or an authorized user.

• Charge Card, Credit Card, Debit Card: Which One Is Right For You

  Charge cards, credit cards and debit cards may look alike, but they offer different services and benefits. Learn the basics of each card and determine which is best for you.

• Disputing A Credit Card Billing Error

  It happens to everyone. Your credit card statement has a mistake on it. Do you know how to correct it?

• Shopping for a Credit Card

  What's the best credit card deal? Is a lower rate worth the annual fee? Which is better: flight miles, rebate points or low rate? Consider all of these features when selecting the best credit card for you.

• Save Money on Your Credit Card Bills

  Did you know you can save money on Monthly Finance Charges if you pay your bill early?

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