Tips and AdviceCredit Reports and FICO ScoresWhen it comes to the world of credit, it's important to know what information is included in your credit report and how it impacts your credit score. If you know how the different parts of your financial history affect your overall credit rating, you'll be in much better stead to take control of your credit and qualify for better interest rates and lower monthly payments on bank loans, mortgages, credit cards, and other accounts. Read more about credit reports and FICO scores . . . Credit Card ComparisonWith so many credit card companies competing for your business, smart consumers can save money on interest and fees by shopping around and finding the credit card that works best for them. Read more credit card comparisons . . . Credit Card DebtWhen you consider that the average American family has seven credit cards and the nation’s credit card debt is nearly $800 billion, it’s clear that these cards play a big role in our everyday lives. Credit cards provide many useful services including convenience, protection on purchases, a means of establishing good credit ratings, tools to rebuild credit, and a way to access cash when you’re in need. But having too much credit card debt can be a concern. Read more about credit card debt . . . ID TheftDuring the past decade, the increase in the number of identity thefts has become a more prominent issue in the lives of Americans. To combat this growing problem, both private and public agencies have stepped forward to find effective solutions: Congress has made identity theft a federal crime; a presidential task force has tackled the subject to provide more effective venues for reporting and prosecuting identity theft; numerous government agencies have made identity theft resource information available to consumers; and the three credit bureaus — Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion — have developed products to help consumers protect themselves against identity theft and make the process of protecting financial information easier. Read more about ID theft . . Credit Card SafetyDid you know that the average American family carries 12 to 13 different credit cards? This kind of statistic makes it clear that, as a society, we rely on these cards for almost every service and product - using credit cards instead of carrying cash, purchasing airline tickets and reserving hotel rooms, renting cars, shopping for merchandise, dining out, or using them to keep track of daily expenses through online account services. Credit cards offer consumers unparalleled convenience, but with the positive side of carrying cards comes the very real concern about credit card safety. Read more about credit card safety... Personal FinancesWhen it comes to building a strong financial base, it’s important to get control of your personal finances. Understanding how to set a monthly budget, discovering new ways to save money, paying off debt — all of these are vital components to taking control of your money and putting it to work for you. Read more about personal finances... Credit Information and NewsGet up to speed credit and identity theft news and information. Read more Credit Information and News Articles... Featured ArticlesThis section offers a variety of featured articles related credit cards such as the best credit cards to have, and how to handle your credit in an economic crisis. Read more Featured Articles... |