December 27, 2007

Is Someone Finally Going to Put Credit Card Companies In Their Place

Changes to Regulation Z May Take the Credit Card World By Storm

I've said it once and I'll say it again -- someone's got to do something about the way the credit card industry currently works. It looks like upcoming changes to Regulation Z may do just that. But what is Regulation Z and how is it going to put a stop to harmful credit card practices? Read on...

Continue reading "Is Someone Finally Going to Put Credit Card Companies In Their Place" »

December 16, 2007

How Exactly Does That Credit Card In Your Wallet Work?

A Deeper Look Into What Makes Your Credit Card Tick

Most of us take it for granted... We want something, we whip out our credit card and -- abracadabra -- the transaction is magically processed by the credit card fairies and the item is ours. However, in real life there aren't credit card fairies magically transporting your credit card information back and forth. In real life, the process is a bit more complex. Wondering just how complex? Read on!

Continue reading "How Exactly Does That Credit Card In Your Wallet Work?" »

December 4, 2007

Do You Really Understand The Make-Up Of Your Credit Cards?

Credit Cards: Anatomy 101

We look at our credit cards every day -- the 16 digit code, the 3-digit security code on the back, the magnetic stripe. But do we really know what makes our credit cards what they are? How do they work? Why are there 16 digits instead of 12? Here's a lesson in credit card anatomy...

Continue reading "Do You Really Understand The Make-Up Of Your Credit Cards?" »

November 8, 2007

What Type of Credit Card Consumer Are You?

What Your Credit Card Habits Say About You

When it comes to credit cards, I’ve notice three distinct groups of credit card consumers. Wondering what they are and where you fit in? Here's the scoop...

Continue reading "What Type of Credit Card Consumer Are You?" »

October 31, 2007

What All Credit Card Holders Should Know About Credit Limits

Credit Limits Explained

It’s common practice nowadays for credit card companies to increase their customers' credit limits without even letting them know or getting their “approval” first. One day you’ll have a $2,000 credit limit, and the next time you look at your monthly credit card statement you’ll notice your credit limit has been increased to $2,800. Before you think of an increased credit limit as a license to spend, there are some things you need to know.

Continue reading "What All Credit Card Holders Should Know About Credit Limits" »

October 20, 2007

The “A's” of Credit Card Terminology

Terms Every Credit Card User Should Know

If you’ve ever applied for a credit card, you're familiar with the fact that credit card companies use a plethora of confusing credit card terms. Before you apply for another credit card, you need to know exactly what those terms mean. Read our credit card glossary below to get the 4-1-1 on popular credit card terminology.

Continue reading "The “A's” of Credit Card Terminology" »

July 31, 2007

The Growing Popularity of Affinity Credit Cards

Understanding Affinity Credit Cards

Affinity credit cards are becoming increasingly popular and an increasing number of credit card providers are starting to issue them. If you're not yet familiar with the world of affinity credit cards, it's time to get introduced.

Continue reading "The Growing Popularity of Affinity Credit Cards" »

July 23, 2007

Credit Cards of the Rich and Famous?

The Credit Cards of the Wealthy

What do Paris Hilton and Donald Trump have in common? They're both rich and famous and they both have credit cards. But are the credit cards of the rich and famous the same credit cards you and I use? Probably not. If you're wondering what credit cards the rich and famous carry, we have the answers.

Continue reading "Credit Cards of the Rich and Famous?" »

June 24, 2007

What Married Couples Need to Know About Credit Cards

Credit Cards are a Joint Affair for Married Couples

Many cultures believe that when a couple is married, the two become one. Well, the credit card industry agrees. If you are married and both you and your spouse carry credit cards, there are some things you need to talk about.

Continue reading "What Married Couples Need to Know About Credit Cards" »

June 20, 2007

Some Things You May Not Have Known About Credit Cards

Navigating the World of Credit Cards

There is so much about credit cards that consumers don’t really understand. For instance, do you know why some merchants only allow you to use a credit card if your minimum purchase is $20? If you’d like the answer to this and other questions about credit cards, read on…

Continue reading "Some Things You May Not Have Known About Credit Cards" »

June 6, 2007

Has Your Credit Card Company Helped You Lately?

Credit Card Companies are Becoming More Customer-Oriented

As much as we complain about the credit card companies at times, I have to admit that many of them are becoming more customer-friendly these days. They understand that there is a lot of competition and that you could easily transfer the balance you have with them to another credit card company. If you want to learn more about the improvements credit card companies are making, we’ve got the info.

Continue reading "Has Your Credit Card Company Helped You Lately?" »

June 3, 2007

Does Every American Carry Credit Cards?

A Spotlight on Credit Cards

Credit cards are popular and they can certainly make provide convenience to our over-scheduled and hectic lives. In the U.S., we are bombarded with credit card advertisements on television and it doesn’t seem like you can get your luggage at a major airport without someone pushing a credit card offer. So, are we abusing credit cards here in America, or is the trend really not as bad as it seems?

Continue reading "Does Every American Carry Credit Cards?" »

April 11, 2007

The Benefits of Discover Card Cash Back Bonus

Have You Discovered Discover?

There are many credit cards that offer cash back incentive programs, but the Discover cash back bonus is unique and offers cardholders incredible value. If you haven't yet looked into what makes Discover Card so different from the rest, you don't know what you're missing.

Continue reading "The Benefits of Discover Card Cash Back Bonus" »

April 9, 2007

What You Need To Know About Credit Card Credit Limits

How Much Available Credit Do You Have on Your Credit Cards?

You’d be surprised at how many credit card consumers don’t even realize how close they are to their credit limits. If you are a credit card user, you have a responsibility to yourself to really know how much available credit you have.

Continue reading "What You Need To Know About Credit Card Credit Limits" »

March 22, 2007

Unsecured Credit Cards and the Annual Vacation

Should You Use Your Unsecured Credit Cards to Finance Your Summer Vacation?

With summer approaching, you are probably wondering if it is a good idea to charge that family vacation you’ve been planning to your unsecured credit cards. There is no doubt about it, unsecured credit cards, and really any credit cards, can certainly come in very handy for all sorts of life events. But is it really wise to charge a vacation?

Continue reading "Unsecured Credit Cards and the Annual Vacation" »

March 20, 2007

When Did Credit Card Information Become Less Private?

A Disturbing Credit Card Trend

Have you noticed a credit card trend that has been occurring recently? Many businesses you deal with, including even doctors’ offices, are now requiring customers to provide credit card information prior to their first appointment. While I used to think getting swamped with credit card offers was a cause for concern, I’ve now replaced that worry with a new one.

Continue reading "When Did Credit Card Information Become Less Private?" »

February 25, 2007

Applying for Credit Cards In Public Places

What Problems Exist When Applying for Credit Cards in Public Venues?

If you’re interested in getting a new credit card, it’s beneficial to put some time into the decision before you apply for any credit card offer that comes your way. There are many opportunities that regularly present themselves for you to apply for credit cards. Keep in mind that you don’t have to apply for every credit card offer that comes your way. When you apply for a new credit card, ideally it will be a card that you have researched and selected on your own first.

Continue reading "Applying for Credit Cards In Public Places" »

February 16, 2007

Credit Card Teaser Rates Fool Many Consumers

What You Need to Know before You Get that New Credit Card

Credit card teaser rates present a problem for many consumers. Who wouldn’t love a low interest rate on their credit card? Credit card companies offer incredibly low rates to consumers in an attempt to get them to apply for their credit cards. However, credit card teaser rates are just that a “tease” that doesn’t last as long as you would like it too.

Continue reading "Credit Card Teaser Rates Fool Many Consumers" »

January 7, 2007

Consider a Bank of America Credit Card

Bank of America Credit Cards Appeal to Diverse Number of Consumers

If you are interested in a Bank of America credit card, you’ll be pleased to find out that you have many different options. When applying for a Bank of America credit card you will have a wide range of options to choose from.

Continue reading "Consider a Bank of America Credit Card" »

December 30, 2006

How to Handle Credit Card Applications

Credit Card Applications Clutter Mailboxes Nationwide

If you’ve found yourself inundated with credit card applications, there are some important tips you should keep in mind. It is very important to not simply fill out all of the credit card applications that come your way. You do need to be selective and only fill out credit card applications when you are seriously interested in the credit cards and when you anticipate that you have a decent chance at qualifying for the offer.

Continue reading "How to Handle Credit Card Applications" »

December 18, 2006

Credit Card Services Explained

Research the Credit Card Services a Company Offers BEFORE Applying

When you are considering applying for a new credit card, there are some things that you should focus on and one factor to consider is the credit card services a company makes available to you. Credit card services can vary widely by company, and every consumer should thoroughly investigate their options before making a decision.

Continue reading "Credit Card Services Explained" »

December 16, 2006

Bad Credit Cards Explained

What are Bad Credit Cards?

As a consumer, you might be wondering what credit cards can be considered bad credit cards. Interestingly enough, there is really not one clear answer on whether or not a particular credit card is a bad credit card. All credit cards can be considered either good credit cards or bad credit cards.

Continue reading "Bad Credit Cards Explained" »

December 10, 2006

When Applying for a New Credit Card, It is Best to Compare Credit Cards

Compare Credit Cards Both Online and Off

You would be surprised at the number of consumers who don’t bother to compare credit cards before applying for them. Credit card companies are “selling” you a service by extending you a line of credit, and it pays to shop around first. It is very important to compare credit cards before applying for them. When you compare credit cards first, you will have the peace of mind knowing that you got the best possible deal available to you.

Continue reading "When Applying for a New Credit Card, It is Best to Compare Credit Cards" »

December 4, 2006

Instant Approval Credit Cards Provide Consumers with Immediate Reply

If you are Looking for a New Credit Card, Consider Instant Approval Credit Cards

Instant approval credit cards provide an incredible convenience for many consumers. Instant approval credit cards provide the benefit of an immediate reply to consumers who apply for them. Applying for instant approval credit cards is easier, faster and instantaneously rewarding. In fact, you can apply for an instant approval credit card right now and be shopping with it in less than five minutes.

Continue reading "Instant Approval Credit Cards Provide Consumers with Immediate Reply" »

November 27, 2006

Cash Back Credit Cards Great Choice for Consumers

Is a Cash Back Credit Card Right for You?

Cash back credit cards are a great choice for consumers who regularly use their credit cards for daily purchases but pay the balance in full each month. By doing this, consumers can enjoy a cash back bonus check but avoid the interest charged when they maintain a balance. Paying their balance in full each month allows consumers to fully benefit from cash back credit cards.

Continue reading "Cash Back Credit Cards Great Choice for Consumers" »

November 25, 2006

Advantages of a Visa Credit Card

Do You Have a Visa Credit Card In Your Wallet?

If you don’t already have a Visa credit card, be prepared for the new Visa ads that will pit cash against credit. It’s actually a pretty brilliant idea to wage a struggle between cash and credit, and Visa has taken advantage of a great opportunity.

Continue reading "Advantages of a Visa Credit Card" »

November 20, 2006

Credit Card Companies Get Creative

Newest Styles Offered by Credit Card Companies are Pretty Amazing

Credit card companies are recognizing an unchartered territory in credit card innovations. Credit card companies are beginning to try out stylish and cleverly designed credit cards to attract fashion-conscious consumers.

Continue reading "Credit Card Companies Get Creative" »

October 24, 2006

Credit Card Statements: Reading The Fine Print

Why The Pamphlets That Come With Your Credit Card Statements Aren’t Just Optional Reading Material

As a consumer, having credit cards brings with it certain responsibilities. One of those responsibilities is being informed. Like most consumers, you may have gotten into the habit of throwing away the inserts that come with your monthly credit card statements. If that’s the case, there are some things you really need to know.

Continue reading "Credit Card Statements: Reading The Fine Print" »

June 14, 2006

Can You Be Turned Down for a Credit Card Because of Excellent Credit?

Why You’re Turned Down for a Credit Card Might Surprise You

Recently someone wrote in telling us about how they were turned down for a credit card because they didn’t “fit the profile” that the store had established for their credit card account holders. It’s important to understand that this decision had nothing to do with credit ratings because the person in question has excellent question and pay their credit card balances in full each month. Why then, were they turned down for a credit card when they could obviously afford to pay the balance each month? The answers may surprise you.

Continue reading "Can You Be Turned Down for a Credit Card Because of Excellent Credit?" »

June 10, 2006

Are Credit Cards Changing for the Worse?

Aggravating New Credit Card Trends

In the past, we’ve talked about how some people are noticing their grace periods being reduced and we’ve talked about the universal default provisions that credit card companies are now implementing into their policies, but it’s not until you look at the big picture that you realize credit cards are seriously changing, and not for the better.

Continue reading "Are Credit Cards Changing for the Worse?" »

May 10, 2006

Are Department Store Credit Cards Worth the Perks?

The Truth about Department Store Credit Cards

Chances are at one time or another you’ve been checking out at your local department store and have heard the clerk ask you if you’d like to save a certain percentage off of your purchase just by applying for their department store credit card. If you’re making a substantial purchase that day, you may be inclined to accept the offer. But are department store credit cards really worth the perks, or are they just another credit card in your wallet that you don’t really need?

Continue reading "Are Department Store Credit Cards Worth the Perks?" »

April 11, 2006

Are Those Mini Credit Cards?

Mini Credit Cards are Hitting the Market

Would you like a miniature credit card that fits on your keychain? A mini credit card that allows you to pay for your purchase with just a swipe across a scanner? Well, if you have a Visa, that’s exactly what you can have. Visa is now mailing out mini credit cards to customers that will make convenience shopping even quicker and easier.

Continue reading "Are Those Mini Credit Cards?" »

April 10, 2006

Are Your Minimum Monthly Credit Card Payments Really Going to Double?

Minimum Credit Card Payment Increases -- The Truth of the Matter

Many people have been reporting that minimum monthly credit card payments are going to soon double due to recent legislation. As with many rumors that run rampant, there is a bit of truth to the story -- however, there is also quite a bit of misinformation. So what exactly is the status of minimum monthly credit card payments?

Continue reading "Are Your Minimum Monthly Credit Card Payments Really Going to Double?" »

April 1, 2006

A No Limit Credit Card: Problem or Privilege

Is Having A No Limit Credit Card a Good Idea?

To some people, having a no limit credit card would be a dream come true. To others, it’s a sign of accomplishment and success. But does the perk of having a no limit credit card come without drawbacks? The answer may surprise you.

Continue reading "A No Limit Credit Card: Problem or Privilege" »

March 20, 2006

Pre-Qualified Credit Card Offers

Are Credit Card Offers Everything They’re Supposed to Be?

If you’re overwhelmed by the number of credit card offers you receive in the mail, you’re not alone. Many of these credit card offers tout to be pre-qualified or pre-authorized invitations, leading you to believe that you’ve actually been approved for the credit card offer you’ve been mailed. But is that really the case?

Continue reading "Pre-Qualified Credit Card Offers" »

March 6, 2006

Understanding Credit Card Blocking

Credit Card Blocking Basics

Credit card blocking isn’t as bad as it sounds. Credit card blocking, also known as credit card preauthorization, happens when a merchant blocks a certain amount of your available credit without actually charging your credit card. Still confused as to what credit card blocking is? Let me explain…

Continue reading "Understanding Credit Card Blocking" »

March 1, 2006

Credit Cards and Charity

More and More Charities Are Now Accepting Credit Card Donations

Gone are the days when you had to have extra cash on hand to make a donation to your favorite charity. Nowadays more and more charities are accepting credit cards as a method of payment. But is it a good idea to donate to a charity using a credit card, or is this just another way for you to get deeper and deeper in debt?

Continue reading "Credit Cards and Charity" »

February 17, 2006

How Is Credit Card Interest Determined?

How Your Credit Card Interest is Determined

If you don’t pay your credit card off in full each month, you’re going to have to face the unpleasant music of paying interest charges. If you are someone who pays interest charges on your credit card, you may be interested in how that credit card interest is determined. We have that information and we’re going to shed some light on the topic of credit card interest factors.

Continue reading "How Is Credit Card Interest Determined?" »

February 3, 2006

The History of Credit Cards

A Glimpse Into the History of Credit Cards

As hard as it may be to believe it today’s day and age, credit cards did not always exist. There was a time when you couldn’t just hand over a piece of plastic to the store clerk and have your purchase charged against your credit card account. So how did credit cards come to be and when were they introduced?

Continue reading "The History of Credit Cards" »

February 2, 2006

Understanding Instant Approval Credit Cards

The Truth about Instant Approval Credit Cards

Instant approval credit cards -- you see advertisements for them everywhere. But what are they really and is approval really instant? We’ll take you through the basics of instant approval credit cards so you can better understand them.

Continue reading "Understanding Instant Approval Credit Cards" »

January 31, 2006

Credit Card Basics 101

Understanding the Credit Card Basics

If you’re going to find the best credit card for you, you’re going to need to understand the credit card basics. From the credit card terms and conditions to the APR, you’re going to need to know the lingo in order to navigate your way through the maze of credit card offers out there. Worry not. We’ve got the information you need.

Continue reading "Credit Card Basics 101" »

January 30, 2006

Smart Cards Being Introduced in the United States

Are Smart Cards the Wave of the Future?

While France, Germany and the U.K. have been using smart cards for years, they are just now being introduced in the United States. But what are smart cards and how do they affect you? We’ve got the details you’ve been looking for.

Continue reading "Smart Cards Being Introduced in the United States" »

January 18, 2006

Debunking Five of the Most Common Myths About Credit Cards

Do You Believe Any of These Myths About Credit Cards?

You think you know everything there is to know about credit cards, but do you really? I mean, how much do you really know about those little pieces of plastic that you use each and every day? I’m willing to bet there are a few things you think you know that are actually just mere myths about credit card. Want to find out? We’re debunking five of the most common myths about credit card right here.

Continue reading "Debunking Five of the Most Common Myths About Credit Cards" »

January 6, 2006

Can’t Qualify for a Credit Card?

If you can’t qualify for a traditional credit card, you do have other options.

Let’s face it, bad things happen to good people and sometimes those bad things affect our credit. If you find yourself in the position of not being able to qualify for a credit card, life can get pretty hard. After all, you can’t even rent a car without a credit card. So what can you do if your credit isn’t perfect and you need a credit card but don’t qualify for one? Follow our advice.

Continue reading "Can’t Qualify for a Credit Card?" »

December 31, 2005

Pay In Advance Credit Cards and Loans

Don’t fall for the pay in advance credit cards and loans scam!

If you’re thinking about applying for a credit card or loan that charges an upfront fee, you might want to rethink that decision. Many pay in advance credit cards and loans are nothing more than scams devised to take the money that you worked hard to earn. If you send in your money to one of these companies, you might as well be throwing it away.

Continue reading "Pay In Advance Credit Cards and Loans" »

December 28, 2005

Which Credit Cards Are Right For You?

Sorting through the sea of credit cards

It’s no secret, there are a number of credit cards to choose from. The question is, which credit cards are right for you? With so many credit cards available today, which ones will fit in your wallet? Let me help you sort through the sea of credit cards at your disposal.

Continue reading "Which Credit Cards Are Right For You?" »

December 26, 2005

Discover Card Services

Discover card services are impressing the masses.

With the amenities that Discover Card services offer, it’s no wonder that Discover Card is quickly becoming one of the most popular credit cards in the nation. From cash back bonuses to online account management, Discover Card services are impressing consumers like never before.

Continue reading "Discover Card Services" »

December 23, 2005

On-line Credit Card Applications

On-line credit card applications streamline the credit card application process.

Remember the days when you would have to manually fill out a credit card application, sign it, mail it in and then wait weeks for a response? Thanks to the Internet, those days are long gone and on-line credit card applications are the wave of the future.

Continue reading "On-line Credit Card Applications" »