Credit Information and News

When it comes to the world of credit and managing personal finances, it's important to be well-informed on timely information and news. Up-to-date credit knowledge and information is crucial in today's financial marketplace.

This website section offers credit card information and credit card news articles that showcase informative credit research and stories that will help you make educated financial decisions and keep a pulse on the credit card world.

Marriage Plans? A Last Minute Credit Check Is Essential

January 14, 2009

If you are planning on popping the question to that special someone, or if the ring is already on your finger, you may want to perform a credit check before taking the plunge.

Expert Advice on Paying Holiday Debt

January 14, 2009

Holiday debt can be an annoying burden to deal with after the New Year.However, there are easy ways to come up with the extra money to pay off some of these lagging bills, and financial advisors have some advice that may help people shave off chunks of their lingering debt in 2009.

New Year’s Resolution: Financial Control

January 13, 2009

This year like any other has had its ups and downs, but undoubtedly the most adverse aspect of 2008 was the economy. The state of Americans’ personal finances and those of the business world have left a sour taste in many consumer’s mouths, and while most sipped champagne to wash it out on New Year’s Eve, consumers should also think about taking steps to better their financial health in the coming year.

New Government Rules to Relieve Hard Hit Consumers

January 13, 2009

Many cash-strapped consumers have been blindsided by sudden rate hikes in 2008, and needless to say it has left some more than just bit angry. Unforeseen rising rates have added a lot of financial burden in a tough economy which has left many asking questions of credit card companies; many which have gone unanswered. Luckily, the government has finally stepped in.

Better Business Bureau Warns of Cyber Scams

January 13, 2009

Consumers are buying gifts for each other for the various holidays and also at the same time taking advantage of great sales that are offered by retailers to lure them into spending more, and cyber criminals are also stepping up their scams to target unsuspecting online shoppers.

Falling Rates Seen on Prevalent Credit Card Types

January 6, 2009

In a tough economy where money is tight, consumers need all of the good news that they can get, and steady interest rate decreases lately might be just what the doctor ordered.

Future Credit Card Rules and You

January 6, 2009

There could be some good news for consumers in an otherwise rough year this holiday season. New legislative proposals are set to soon come into effect to help consumers who have fallen victim to fluctuating rates and sketchy practices by credit institutions.

Holiday Changes in Credit Card Rules

December 18, 2008

No One to Bail You Out

December 18, 2008

Every year, Consumer Reports has an annual holiday public awareness campaign to warn consumers of the many ways that retailers take advantage of consumers. Yes, it’s true; some of your favorite stores are pocketing a lot of cash in ways you may never have even thought about.

Save a Penny, Earn a Penny

December 18, 2008

It's no secret that we are a nation of spenders. Americans love to buy whatever they want even if they can't afford it, especially on credit lines and borrowed money. All of these contributing factors are making it hard to borrow money at all in the current economy, and consumers need to find ways to start saving what they can, when they can, so we can all slowly improve our spending habits and lead ourselves in the direction of a healthy economy.

Get Your 'Green' Card

December 18, 2008

Discover Financial Services has issued a revolutionary biodegradable credit card. Comprised of mostly PVC material, this card will spare you any worries if you or a loved one realize that they forgot to cut up their card before throwing it out.

Elevate Yourself to a Prime Credit Card

December 11, 2008

When trying to decide on what type of credit card to open up, a sub-prime card is not always the first that comes to mind for many consumers. Although these cards typically carry higher annual fees and rates with lower credit limits, they are still a great way for consumers to start improving their credit histories, and get on the road to scoring a prime credit card.

Credit Card Know-How That Can Help You Save

December 11, 2008

During this time of economic slumping and belt-tightening by companies across many different industries, it can be increasingly more difficult to maintain steady interest rates and credit limits at a desirable level. The best way to protect against negative changes to your account is to make sure you don't spend what you don't have, you don't carry a balance, and you pay bills on time.

Safeguards Against Identity Theft

December 11, 2008

The holidays are approaching, which means one thing; the start of the year’s busiest buying season. Unfortunately, along with this guaranteed increase in retail and other sales comes higher instances of identity theft; and according to some experts, this year may be worse than usual.

Beware of Lowered Credit Limits

December 11, 2008

The definition of a shopping nightmare: waiting in a long line, getting to the cashier and having your card declined. This is only amplified when you're a savvy cardholder who regularly pays on time and manages your balance well. Experts believe that companies may be resorting to this practice due to worry about risky investments and are shortening limits as a result. It doesn’t help that people may be affected regardless of their balance or payment history and their credit scores.

Have Your Credit Card Help You

December 9, 2008

Let’s face it; no one ever enjoys returning items at stores. Consumers that wish to return items are often met with long lines, surly employees and strict return policies. Here’s a watershed idea: what if your credit card could offer extended warranties, make price changes and even go as far as issue refunds on items that customers already tried and failed to return at stores? Although for the most part these benefits are available with premium packages for certain customers (gold, silver, and platinum cards), some are available with standard cards as well.

Making the Right Moves with Your First Credit Card

December 9, 2008

Two out of every three college students own at least one credit card, according to a study done by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group. It has been a huge emerging market for companies and universities alike, as most colleges now bank around $1billion annually selling students’ financial information to credit card marketers. Some people believe that students are naively walking into a trap set by these institutions that could have dire financial consequences, but there are ways to avoid early card troubles and keep your future looking brighter than ever.

Spend, and You Can Receive

December 4, 2008

So it’s drawing towards the end of another year, and the holidays are quickly approaching. Many people that are planning on spending money on gifts and other items during the season are also hoping to maximize purchases by cashing in on bonus incentives offered by credit card companies.

Buyer Beware: Increased Credit Card Theft Likely During Holidays

December 3, 2008

The hectic period between the chaotic initial Thanksgiving sales through the new year of increased shopping and spending is upon us. Although this is normally a joyous time of giving, receiving and good times for all, there is one drawback to this festive time of year. Authorities are predicting an increase of identity and credit car thefts this holiday season.

Ways to Lower Credit Card Interest Rates

December 2, 2008

Due to the present state of the economy, many consumers are finding themselves facing mounting interest rates. There are ways to help combat these mounting rates, and it’s as easy as picking up your phone and calling your credit card company.

Handling Credit Card Report Errors

December 2, 2008

Did you know that over 13 million errors occur each year on consumers’ credit reports? Learn the many different ways in which these mistakes affect people on a regular basis that often go beyond just the inconvenience of correction.

Fighting the War on Credit Card Debt

November 26, 2008

It’s no secret by now; Americans are feeling the weight of mounting debt. Credit counselors offer five simple ways of significantly limiting the risk associated with credit card debt and help consumers find ways to manage their finances and credit cards efficiently.

Become a Credit Card Debt Destroyer

November 26, 2008

In order to compensate for all of the defaulted credit lines and loans that they’ve issued, many of these credit companies are starting to raise rates and fees on their cards. So what’s the solution? Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts that may shed some light on easy ways to alleviate some of the nagging financial burdens that have had consumers singing the credit debt blues over the last few painful recessionary months.