All credit card news

Credit card balances fall sharply again -- Consumers have spent the past year living frugally, new Federal Reserve data shows -- and analysts say an anti-debt mindset isn't likely to change anytime soon. ... (more)

11 golden rules of practical gift card giving -- Pampering at the spa? Expensive round of golf? Out. Practical gifts are in this holiday season, and that goes for gift cards, too. ... (more)

Collectible gift cards can be both practical and fun -- Although the holidays this year are expected to be heavy on practical presents, giving gift cards can still be fun -- including those featuring 'Twilight' and 'Star Trek' themes. ... (more)

There's a cost to paying less than you owe -- Before you jump at the chance to pay less than what you owe, think about what settling your debt will end up costing you. ... (more)

Credit card issuers: Sorry, new law says we can't cut your rates quickly -- Credit card issuers turn on its head the reform law that bans sudden rate increases; they say that it also forbids quick rate cuts. ... (more)

Rates steady this week, but banks keep tweaking other terms -- Banks may have left rates unchanged this week, but they nevertheless made some changes behind the scenes that could impact cardholders' pocketbooks ... (more)

Credit cardholders 'Discover' new terms in fine print -- Discover is the first of the major credit card issuers to give cardholders details of new terms under credit card law provisions ... (more)

Living off credit cards alone for a year is a terrible idea -- Credit cards were never meant to be used to replace income over a long period of time, and using them that way can bring big trouble. ... (more)

Fed leaves rates unchanged again, stays positive about economy -- The Federal Reserve left its lending rates unchanged again on Wednesday, even as the central bank reiterated that the economy is on the mend. ... (more)

Rise in delinquencies signals prolonged credit card woes -- Though charge-offs decreased during September, the credit card industry braces for an increase in noncollectable debt as delinquencies rise. ... (more)

Opting out of APR increase doesn't have to impact your credit -- It's a common question these days: Will opting out of a rate increase hurt my credit? The answer isn't so clear-cut. ... (more)

5 credit card opt-out oopses to avoid -- Even if you’ve opted out of a credit card interest rate increase, these costly mishaps can trigger an unwanted rate hike. ... (more)

Convenience (checks) comes at a price -- When it comes to convenience checks, your best bet is to proceed carefully. The fees and interest on convenience checks can quickly escalate, and they can be potential targets for identity thieves. ... (more)

Debt can slow down retirement goals -- Debt happens. But how you handle it depends on whether you take charge of it or you allow it to take charge of you. ... (more)

As time runs out, don't blow first-time home buyer tax credit -- Running up credit card bills before closing can jeopardize that $8,000 tax break you were hoping would make you a first-time home buyer. ... (more)

When the no-interest, same-as-cash deal clock runs out -- If you aren't diligent about paying off a balance during the a no-interest period, you face the high-interest gauntlet. Here's what you can do. ... (more)

Credit card interest rates push higher again -- APRs on new credit card offers inched up to 12.64 percent this week, says the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report. This continues recent trends of rising interest rates this year, as banks continue to make moves ahead of a new card law. ... (more)

Uncle Sam wants you ... unless your credit stinks -- You may be ready to serve your country, but if your finances aren't in good shape, you might get washed out. ... (more)

Credit card video: How to pick the right credit counseling agency -- Erica Sandberg, columnist for CreditCards.com, explains what to expect when you visit a credit counseling agency. She also describes what you should look for in a credit counselor and how to find one that is right for you. ... (more)

Avoid headaches with this 5-step plan for traveling with credit cards -- Most people don't consider their credit cards when they're traveling overseas. That's a mistake. These 5 steps will get you and your cards abroad and back safely. ... (more)

Want a better FICO score? Step No. 1: Pay bills on time -- Paying your bills on time every time is vital, but it's just the start to building a good credit score. ... (more)

Credit Sin -- Will using plastic land you in hot water with your almighty? Depending on the belief system, card use might require some repentance ... (more)

How credit card interest charges accrue on a daily basis -- With daily periodic interest charges adding to your credit card balances, the odds of making a dent in your debt by paying just the minimum is minimal. ... (more)

Health care cards carry same credit risks -- Sure, you can charge that MRI, but be warned: health care credit cards are the same -- or worse -- than regular credit cards. ... (more)

6 ways to prevent bank overdraft fees -- Banks and credit unions collected nearly $24 billion in overdraft fees last year. Find out how you can help keep some of that money in your pocket. ... (more)

Credit card rates flat as banks look for other ways to boost profits -- Interest rates may be flat, but don't cheer yet: Banks are simply shifting their money-making strategies, experts say. ... (more)

House committee: Move up credit card law -- A key U.S. House committee voted to move up implementation of interest rate restrictions in the Credit CARD Act by nearly three months to Dec. 1, 2009, to fast-track consumer protections. ... (more)

Low credit score? Good luck getting a new credit card, study says -- Consumers receive far fewer credit cards than a year ago; those approved for cards have better credit scores, says a study by credit bureau Equifax. ... (more)

Jon and Kate's 8 plus-size money mistakes -- The paparazzi-pursued loco parental units of reality TV, the Gosselins, set an example, say money experts -- of what NOT to do financially. ... (more)

Toys R Us joins retailers offering layaway plans -- 'Pay now, buy later' plan feeds on consumers' new distaste for debt. ... (more)

Don't let delinquent debt keep you from getting a mortgage -- Getting serious about buying a house someday? Those delinquent debts have got to go or your dreams of home ownership may remain just that -- a dream. ... (more)

10 flu-fighting credit card tips -- Cards can carry germs, but with these precautions, you can be an inhospitable host for flu and other bugs. ... (more)

Financial transactions surpass 100 billion in 2009 -- The number of electronic and check transactions taking place will reach record levels, surpassing 100 billion by the end of 2009. ... (more)

Getting an iPhone, other fancy cell phone? Mind that other number: your credit score -- If you want to get the latest iPhone or other fancy cell phone, you may find your credit score is a key number. A bad one turns your phone into an expensive connection. ... (more)

What to do when debt triples your income -- When your debt load is more than triple your income, it's time to seek a solution. Debt counseling, debt settlement and possible bankruptcy can set you free. ... (more)

Credit card video: How to avoid arguments when sharing credit -- Personal finance columnist Erica Sandberg discusses why there are problems when it comes to sharing credit. She also gives solutions for couples having problems and tips on what to discuss so you can avoid any arguments. ... (more)

How bad are your credit card mistakes? -- All mistakes with your credit are bad, but not all are equally bad. Grade yours on this 10-point scale. ... (more)

Will cash gifts, inheritance go to creditors after bankruptcy? -- If you recently filed for bankruptcy and are now looking at an inheritance, it's best to make other arrangements for that cash or it could end up going to your creditors. ... (more)

Credit card APRs fall slightly, reversing recent rate-hike trend -- Credit card interest rates dropped slightly this week, after several banks made a commitment to abstaining from additional rate hikes. ... (more)

Guru goofs: 7 personal finance experts confess biggest mistakes -- Famous financial experts divulge details about past bankruptcies, overdrafts and budgeting gone wrong. ... (more)

Act fast to remove authorized users when your credit goes south -- Authorized users on your credit card account suffer when your credit hits the skids. Our expert shows how to remove those users to minimize the damage. ... (more)

CreditCards.com's guide to online holiday shopping 2009 -- The sour economy will push more people online to do their shopping this year; these steps will help keep your experience free of cybergrinches. ... (more)

How to make sure your credit score is a FICO score -- Credit score seem just a bit too high? You may not have bought the ever-popular FICO score. But don't feel bad, our expert says. It's an easy mistake to make. ... (more)

Under new management: Your credit card -- As more Americans resort to plastic to survive, major banks are shedding their credit card portfolios. What happens when your issuer dumps your credit card? ... (more)

Bankruptcy filings on track to hit 1.4 million in 2009 -- Spurred on by high unemployment, bankruptcies have steadily climbed toward the level present before a 2005 reform law that was supposed to hold down filings. ... (more)

Mystery debt: A collector's goof becomes your recurring problem -- Prepare for a hassle if a collection mistake has your name on it -- phone calls and certified letters are in your future. ... (more)

Nevada holds onto 'top spot' for U.S. bankruptcies in 3rd quarter -- Residents of Nevada, Tennessee and Georgia remain most likely to file bankruptcy, according to third quarter 2009 statistics. How likely are the neighbors in your state to file for protection from debts? ... (more)

Debt collectors must prove the debt is yours -- A reader is being harassed for debt that she doesn't think is hers. Take these steps to take to prevent debt collection abuse. ... (more)

As Americans tighten their belts, they adjust attitudes toward credit -- If buying on credit today were a card game, it would be Texas Hold 'Em. Consumers keep their credit cards close to their vests, leaving merchants to wonder if the newfound frugality is a fad or a bluff. ... (more)

Study: Consumers get more frugal, practical with buying gift cards -- Even though more consumers are purchasing gift cards this year, they're being purchased in smaller amounts and used for more practical items, a new study reveals. ... (more)

Major issuers' rate hikes send national average card APR higher -- Several credit card issuers raised interest rates this week, driving the national average annual percentage rate on new credit card offers upward for the third straight week to 12.64 percent, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report. ... (more)

Paying off a child's debt involves money and emotions, dollars and sense -- Paying off a child's debt is a lot more than writing a check. It involves money and emotions, dollars and sense. ... (more)

Nearly 100 charged worldwide in massive phishing scam bust -- The FBI has charged more than 50 defendants -- the most ever charged in a cybercrime case -- for allegedly conspiring to steal the identities of hundreds, possibly thousands, of Americans, the bureau announced Monday. ... (more)

Credit card balances fall by nearly $10 billion in August -- Credit card balances plunged by nearly $10 billion in August, according to new Federal Reserve data, marking the 11th straight month of decline amid an ongoing change in consumer and lender attitudes toward plastic. ... (more)

BofA pledges moratorium on credit card interest rate hikes -- Bank of America has pledged not to increase credit card interest rates until February 2010. Congress wants other card issuers to make the same pledge. ... (more)

10 ways to protect yourself from data breaches -- Massive breaches of personal data can leave you feeling helpless, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and prepare for the worst. ... (more)

Want a free FICO score? You're out of luck -- If you think you'll get a free FICO score with your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com, you're mistaken. If you want your FICO score, you'll have to pay. ... (more)

The risks you incur when you co-sign -- Once you co-sign on a credit card, your rights to get out of the deal are limited, but you are still completely liable if the original account holder defaults. ... (more)

Beware of 'fake' grandkids calling for cash -- Be warned! A popular scam is proliferating where a "grandchild" calls a grandparent asking for emergency cash or credit card info. ... (more)

States' weapon of choice against ID theft: Transparency -- Until recently, if ID thieves stole your credit card data, you were kept in the dark. But new state laws force firms to reveal what they used to keep secret. ... (more)

American Express boosts national average credit card interest rate -- American Express this week raised annual percentage rates on several of its card offers, pushing the national average APR higher for the third time in four weeks. ... (more)

Study: Touch money and you feel less pain -- Sticking your hands in scalding water is less painful if first you've handled a stack of bills, researchers find. ... (more)

College students love, hate new credit card law -- College students across the country praise and condemn a new law that will restrict issuing credit cards to anyone under 21 beginning in February 2010. ... (more)

Credit cards and college students: How new law changes marketing, access -- Credit cards and college students: How new law changes marketing of, access to credit cards for young adults. ... (more)

Credit card marketers drop out of college campuses -- Fall 2009 is card issuers' last unfettered chance to sign up students. Rather than give an all-out marketing blitz in its last chance, issuers pulling back. ... (more)

Fed: Credit card issuers, stay far away from college campus -- Under newly issued federal regulations, card issuers have to stay at least 1,000 feet away from campus. ... (more)

When is it not a good idea to piggyback on Mom or Dad's credit? -- Becoming an authorized user on a parent, guardian or other adult's credit card account can have rewards as well as pitfalls. Bad payment habits of the accountholder can ruin the authorized user's credit score. ... (more)

See what students across the U.S. say about changing credit card rules on campus -- Young adults will see their access to credit due restricted due to the Credit CARD Act of 2009; we surveyed campuses to see how students say it will affect them. ... (more)

Cure your defaulted student loan in six steps -- If you default on a student loan, the law gives you a second chance if you make regular, 'reasonable and affordable' payments. ... (more)

Alternative ways for students to build a credit history -- The minimum age to qualify for a credit card will soon increase, requiring that students under 21 find new ways to develop positive credit histories. ... (more)

FAMU students sound off about new credit card law -- Credit cards are necessities for many on campus, students at Florida A&M University say. But others say they don't want the temptation the plastic can bring. ... (more)

Penn State students speak out about new credit card law -- Most students interviewed at Penn State University think the new laws will benefit people under 21 years of age, though some wondered whether there were exceptions to the rules. ... (more)

University of Texas students differ on new credit card law's worth -- Opinions on the new credit law varied among University of Texas students. Co-signers shouldn't be needed, some say, though others applauded the new law's restrictions, saying it would make students more responsible. ... (more)

Arizona State University students sound off about new credit card law -- When asked about the new credit card law and how they manage their own credit, some students at Arizona State University said see credit cards as a step toward full adulthood. Others, however, worry about responsibility and debt. ... (more)

University of Missouri students sound off on new credit card law -- Some welcome the added oversight the law gives young adults, others say show me the benefits to giving up financial independence. ... (more)

Southern Cal students opine on new credit card law -- USC students have seen parents and friends handle, and mishandle, their cards. Those students say that if the law means fewer people get in trouble with their cards, all the better. ... (more)

Emory students debate new credit card law: Helpful or just intrusive? -- Emory University students are split on the Credit Card Act. Some say that it'll help students be more responsible, but one says they don't want or need anyone to 'play mom.' ... (more)

Butler University students give views on new credit card law -- Butler University students say the new credit card law is a double-edged sword. It limits students' financial choices while attempting to save students from themselves. ... (more)

IUPUI students see good and bad in new credit card law -- Credit card law's limitations sets some students at ease at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, though some are wary of those restrictions. ... (more)

Notre Dame students' opinions vary on new credit card law -- Students from the University of Notre Dame see both good and bad in the new law limiting young adults' access to credit cards. Some say it promotes responsibility, while other college students say it just treats them like kids. ... (more)

University of Miami students discuss new credit card law -- Students from the University of Miami give their views on the 2009 credit card law that will restrict young adults' access to cards. Some say it'll help keep young people out of debt. Others say it'll just make things harder on them. ... (more)

Videos: Students react to new laws limiting their access to credit cards -- We talked to college students at the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Missouri to get their reaction to new laws restricting their access to credit cards. Their opinions varied widely. Click through to see their reactions. ... (more)

Fed: Want a credit card? Prove you can pay the bill -- In a new 800-page document released Sept. 29, the Fed requires credit card issuers to confirm borrowers' ability to pay. ... (more)

An employee guide to pay cards -- Paper paychecks are becoming a thing of the past, with plastic payroll debit cards (or pay cards) taking their place. Here's a rundown of what you need to know ... (more)

More employees say 'hello' to payroll cards -- When the nation's largest private employer announces it's discontinuing employee paychecks in favor of a 100 percent paperless payroll system -- in part through the use of payroll cards, or pay cards -- it's time to sit up and take notice. ... (more)

Credit card video: College students react to new credit card laws -- Portions of a new law will affect how young adults get credit cards. The law, which will put age restrictions on credit cards and ban certain types of marketing from college campuses, takes affect February 2010. Our reporter talked to students at the University of Missouri and got their reactions. ... (more)

Reform law, recession lead to 'retro' credit card offers -- New card programs offer payment control, plain vanilla features, but consumers still face a rocky road. ... (more)

Options are limited for bad credit customers -- If you've got a bad credit history in this tight credit market, the odds of getting a credit card with a great interest rate are slim. ... (more)

Protect yourself from estranged husband poaching your good credit -- If an estranged spouse uses your identity and 'poaches' your good credit, he may have committed fraud. Protect yourself first then decide whether to put the screws to him ... (more)

Prepaid cards replace checks as rebate payment of choice -- The next time you're due a rebate or refund, don't expect to receive a paper check. An increasing number of stores and manufacturers are opting to issue prepaid debit cards instead, and some consumers aren't happy about it. ... (more)

APRs rise, even after Fed leaves rates unchanged -- The Federal Reserve chose to leave lending rates unchanged earlier this week, but credit card issuers didn't follow suit. ... (more)

Consumers expecting holiday season to be a bit jollier -- Though consumers are less anxious about the recession hampering holiday festivities, analysts expect most will attempt to keep spending in check. ... (more)

Banks' checking and debit overdraft policies draw scrutiny -- Banking overdraft fees are the subject of studies and scrutiny as consumers, legislators and industry officials weigh in on the controversial practice. ... (more)

Fed keeps rates steady again, waits for stronger economic recovery -- The Federal Reserve once again left interest rates unchanged, as the central bank waits for the economic recovery to become more pronounced before taking up the battle against inflation. ... (more)

Think you can't use that not-yet-activated credit card? Think again -- Until you call your issuer to officially activate it, your new credit card is useless and secure, right? Not necessarily. The startling truth is that many sail through a purchase without a problem. ... (more)

Getting money back from a collection agency? Good luck with that! -- In all her years of credit advising, our expert's never heard of someone paying a collection account and then attempting get the money back after changing his mind -- until now. ... (more)

How to build a better credit card portfolio -- Standing pat with one card isn't a smart move today. Allocate credit as you do assets, strategically trimming or adding cards to get the most out of each. ... (more)

FTC eyes new rules on (not-so) free trial offers -- So-called 'negative option' deals mean unless you act, the free trial morphs into a permanent debt. ... (more)

The risks you face when co-signing a loan -- When you co-sign on a loan and the original borrower stops paying, your credit report and credit score take a hit, too. ... (more)

Wealthiest consumers still unwilling to spend -- Americans are still hesitant to spend. Even consumers earning some of the highest incomes are unwilling to reopen their wallets. ... (more)

Does credit card debt follow you if you move overseas? -- Moving overseas doesn't mean you strand credit card debt acquired in the States -- especially if you ever plan on returning home ... (more)

Credit card rates steady as banks struggle with uncertain economy -- Amid mixed economic signals, banks kept interest rates unchanged on credit cards offers this week at 12.28 percent, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report. ... (more)

Helping aging parents dig out of debt -- With credit card debt among seniors up 26 percent, experts tell you how to help aging parents get back on track without compromising your own financial future. ... (more)

The biggest losers (of debt): How a family shed $106,000 in debt -- Five years ago, this New Richmond, Wis., family was drowning in debt. They licked it through frugality, determination and hard work. Here's how. ... (more)

Patience, persistence are keys to raising your credit score -- An impatient reader may not like the answer, but the the keys to raising your credit score from the depths are consistency, persistence and -- yes -- time. ... (more)

Credit card video: How many students have cards? How do they use them? -- College is a time when many young people are first introduced to credit cards. In this video sampling of students, some enjoy the advantages cards offer, others fret about debt traps. ... (more)

Credit card video: New rules for credit cards on campus -- CreditCards.com talked to students at the University of Texas at Austin to get their reaction to upcoming laws that limit credit card access for people under 21 years of age. ... (more)

Going to your parents for a loan? Hit up Dad first, poll says -- According to a new poll conducted by Gfk Roper for CreditCards.com, male parents are 15 percent more likely to pay off $20,000 or more of their kids debt. ... (more)

Got great credit? Credit card offers improve as crunch works in your favor -- While shedding people with credit problems, card issuers are sweetening the deals for those with excellent credit, putting them in good bargaining position. ... (more)

Options for dealing with a minimum payment increase -- As issuers try new ways to bring in cash, cardholders may face boosted minimum payment requirements. If you can pay the new minimum, you should, and stop carrying a balance in the future. ... (more)

How cell phone technology is helping combat credit card fraud -- Mobile phone technology is fast becoming the latest crime-fighting tool against credit card fraud ... (more)

What you stand to lose if you don't pay your credit card bill -- A readers wonders just what would happen to her if she just stopped paying her credit card bill. Legal action, garnishment and property liens, our expert warns. ... (more)

After a pause, credit card interest rates resume upward march -- After staying flat the previous week, the national average interest rate on new credit card offers rose to 12.28 percent, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report. ... (more)

How to safely, securely destroy a credit card: 6 tips -- With credit card fraud and identity theft on the rise, a single scissor snip won't cut it anymore. ... (more)

Spouse's passing doesn't absolve widower of joint card debts -- Grief over a spouse's death and the need for money to get a new place to live after her passing doesn't absolve a widower of the obligation to pay down joint debts.. ... (more)

Consumer credit plunges record $21.5 billion in July -- Consumer debt fell by an unprecedented $21.5 billion in July, according to new Federal Reserve data, as consumers continued to shy away from borrowing in the recession. ... (more)

Script to negotiate a better credit card deal -- Being a good credit card customer doesn't win the favors it used to, but carefully chosen words can still tilt the odds in your favor. ... (more)

Pitfalls of pumping, dumping sign-up bonus cards -- The "pump and dump" strategy of taking advantage of huge bonus sign-up reward points or miles can really mess with your credit if you're not smart ... (more)

Creditors care about original loan documents, not court agreements -- In divorce, lenders will go after all who agreed to pay, no matter what a court decree says about who should pay. ... (more)

Credit card video: Cutting up your card the right way -- CreditCards.com's Cynthia Drake shows you the right way to cut up a credit card in order to avoid any possible identity theft. There's more to it than you might think. ... (more)

'Pay for grades' movement stirs passions among teachers, parents -- The 'pay for grades' movement has spread from urban cores to affluent middle-class cities around the country, with supporters and opponents squaring off in equal measure over its effectiveness. ... (more)

Best to apply cash to credit card debt or down payment? -- A reader wants to know whether it is wiser to use a lump sum of cash to pay off credit card debt or dump into savings for a future house down payment. ... (more)

Credit card APRs steady, though banks are tweaking other terms -- Even as banks continue to tinker with their business models in reaction to new credit card legislation, the national average annual percentage rate on new credit card offers was unchanged this week at 12.17 percent, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report. ... (more)

Personal finance boot camps fight debt with hard-nosed approach -- They're probably never going to force you to scrub the latrine, hike for miles in the driving rain or call you a maggot, but personal finance boot camps promise to use some tough love to help you gain control over your finances and debt once and for all. ... (more)

Consumers' economic confidence grows, but nervousness lingers -- The latest Discover U.S. Spending Monitor survey says that although consumer economic confidence grew in August, more than half of consumers say they plan to cut back on unnecessary spending -- such as going out to dinner and movies -- in the month ahead. ... (more)

How foreclosures, short sales, other mortgage defaults affect your credit -- How big a bite does a home foreclosure, short sale or other mortgage default take out of your credit score? ... (more)

Authorized users don't have to pay for cardholder's missteps -- If you're an authorized user on someone's credit card and the account holder makes a few wrong moves, you don't have to suffer. Our expert shows how you can protect yourself if this happens to you. ... (more)

J.D. Power survey shows growing number of people dissatisfied with credit cards -- The latest J.D. Power and Associates credit card satisfaction survey found that overall credit card satisfaction plunged to a record low – only 703 on the 1,000-point scale. ... (more)

9 new places where you can stash your cash and flash your plastic -- No cash in your wallet? No problem! Retailers and service providers are moving -- very quickly -- toward easy, rapid on-location payment systems. Here are 9 new places where you can flash your plastic. ... (more)

You have new rights to keep your old rate -- Under the new credit card law, you can cancel your card and pay off your balance at the existing APR if the issuer hits you with a rate increase ... (more)

FTC settles prepaid card misrepresentation case -- A company settled with the Federal Trade Commission after allegedly charging unaware consumers, who thought they were filling out loan applications, for a prepaid card. ... (more)

Credit card video: The basics of credit scoring -- Jeremy Simon, staff reporter with CreditCards.com, explains the ins and outs of credit scores and credit reports. ... (more)

Credit card issuers don't make hardship programs easy -- It's a Catch-22. Though you've kept up payments until now, you can't pay anymore. But your issuer won't work with you until you start missing payments. What to do? ... (more)

After run of rate hikes, banks leave APRs unchanged -- Banks paused this week following a recent run of interest rate increases, leaving the national average annual percentage rate on new credit cards unchanged at 12.17 percent, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report. ... (more)

7 signs Americans are getting smarter with credit -- Lately there have been a handful of signals that consumers are getting a lot smarter when it comes to the cards. Here are seven. ... (more)

Credit card reform law quirk: 45 days' notice becomes 14 -- Yes, the new credit card reform law requires 45 days' notice of rate hikes, but if you use the card after 14 days, the new rate applies. ... (more)

Study: Prepaid cards full of hidden dangers -- Though touted as a way to stay debt-free, the use of prepaid cards may subject consumers to high fees -- and the money may not be safe. ... (more)

How magnets can ruin credit cards -- "Demagnetization" can render a card useless; know what to do if it happens. ... (more)

Are your air miles at risk if you fall on hard times? -- A reader wonders what would happen to his miles if he closes his credit card account, settles with the card company or goes bankrupt. ... (more)

Learn your options when dealing with crushing medical debt -- Communicate, and secure your housing and transportation first, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

Citi adds annual fees to some credit card accounts -- Citi is initiating annual fees on certain credit card accounts as a way to compensate for increasing credit card losses. ... (more)

Credit card charge-offs, delinquencies reverse upward trend -- Credit card charge-offs and delinquencies showed first signs of slowing down in July 2009. ... (more)

Black, white, titanium: Are elite credit cards worth it? -- If your credit rating is outstanding, you earn big and spend big, you could win an elite credit card, which provides premium benefits -- at extreme cost. ... (more)

10 ways to pay down credit card debt -- A young family with $35,000 in credit card debt wonders whether filing for bankruptcy is the solution. It isn't, says our expert. ... (more)

Help with credit card debt -- Whether you're trying to dig out from under debt or just avoid it in the first place, our Credit Card Help section can help you make better decisions. ... (more)

How to cancel a credit card -- Anyone can take scissors to a credit card, but it takes skill to cancel a card without nicking your credit score. ... (more)

5 simple rules to prevent credit card debt -- The CEO of the nonprofit Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Central Florida has some simple rules to help credit card users stay out of debt. ... (more)

4 wrong ways to escape credit card debt -- If you have substantial credit card debt, you may feel trapped. Escaping debt is a must, but there are both right and wrong ways to go about it. We look at four common but ill-advised "solutions" for credit card debt. ... (more)

11 tips for dealing with debt collection, collectors -- Deal with it, experts say. Otherwise, matters can only get worse. CreditCards.com has compiled tips to make this process easier. ... (more)

Debt collection sample letters -- Debt collectors are limited in what they can do and say by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Often, people in debt can restrict how and when debt collectors can contact them, but to be heard, debtors should assert their rights in writing. ... (more)

Cut your credit card debt using micropayments -- Big credit card bill too much to handle? Try multiple monthly payments. It can whittle debt faster and align billing with paycheck. ... (more)

Credit card debt negotiation in 3 (not) easy steps -- You can still dicker over your credit card debt and work out better terms, but expect a marathon, not a sprint. ... (more)

Know your rights: Fair Debt Collection Practices Act -- Experts say consumers should face the facts and deal with debt collectors, but also know and understand their consumer rights and protections. ... (more)

Debt collectors' ethics codes -- Associations of debt collectors try to curb abuses in the collections industry. ... (more)

Dividing credit card debt in divorce -- You can still dicker over your credit card debt and work out better terms, but expect a marathon, not a sprint. ... (more)

8 steps to reducing credit card debt -- This structured, disciplined plan will help you bat down credit card debt and regain financial control. ... (more)

8 myths about settling credit card debt -- Before you decide to try debt settlement, make sure you know the difference between common myths -- and the truth. ... (more)

First phase of the new Credit CARD Act starts Aug. 20 -- The first phase of the new credit card reform law kicks in Aug. 20. Use these helpful links to navigate through what the new law means to you. ... (more)

Got a beef with a credit card issuer? Here's how to file a complaint -- Can't resolve a problem you're having with your credit card issuer? You can file a complaint with the regulator that oversees the bank, credit union or savings institution. ... (more)

Q and A on first phase of new credit card law -- Consumers get the right to opt out of rate increases, notification and billing requirements become clearer. ... (more)

Think twice before rolling credit card debt into mortgage refinancing -- People with equity in their homes can still borrow against it to settle debts. With mortgage rates at historic lows, consolidating credit card debt in a refinance can substantially lower monthly expenses. Yet many financial experts advise against it. ... (more)

A guide to navigating through bankruptcy -- If you find yourself among the growing number of people filing for bankruptcy, or think that it's the only way out, we can help you navigate through these tough times. ... (more)

Firsthand lessons from dealing with my parents' credit card debt after death -- After her parents' sudden demise, a daughter shares hard-won lessons learned from having to cope with their finances. ... (more)

Credit card video: Credit CARD Act to bring big changes -- Connie Prater, senior writer for CreditCards.com, discusses a few of the major provisions in the Credit Card Act of 2009. ... (more)

Fed report: Lenders again tighten credit card loan standards, but not as much -- Credit card issuers again cut credit in the second quarter of 2009, as did lenders of many kinds, according to the latest data from the Federal Reserve. ... (more)

Credit card charge-offs, delinquencies hit all-time high -- The second quarter closed with the highest consumer credit card delinquency and charge-off rates since the Federal Reserve began tracking data on the subjects. ... (more)

Just one day late can hurt that credit card rate -- Even if you're tardy in paying your credit card bill by a single day, it can trigger a rate increase. ... (more)

Have card, will travel: A guide to traveling with a credit card -- You need to take steps before, during and after the trip if you want your travel to be enjoyable for you and your credit. ... (more)

70 years old with $20,000 in credit card debt -- A senior citizen wants to know how she can manage to pay down $20,000 in credit card debt when she's unemployed and on a fixed income ... (more)

Consumers gain right to opt out of credit card rate increases -- The first phase of the new Credit CARD Act of 2009 kicked in Aug. 20, lengthening notice requirements and giving consumers the right to opt out of rate increases. ... (more)

Study: Financial fears not enough to change behavior -- Many, particularly the young, are reluctant to change financial ways, despite recession. ... (more)

Meet Michael Farmer, aka Meteorite Guy -- Welcome to the out-of-this-world life of Michael Farmer, aka Meteorite Guy, one of only about 20 professional meteorite brokers - on this planet anyway. ... (more)

Fed again leaves interest rates at historic low -- In an effort to preserve what analysts deem a fragile recovery, the Federal Reserve has again left interest rates unchanged. ... (more)

14 key considerations for when filing bankruptcy -- No one intends to go bankrupt. But if it happens to you, there are ways to handle the money issues smartly. ... (more)

Stash your plastic when closing on a home -- Going on a credit card spending spree right before closing on a home is unwise. It can even jeopardize your mortgage. ... (more)

Economic optimism falls for first time since February -- Instead of hoping for financial freedom at the end of the tunnel, most are seeing a never-ending train ride of debt and unemployment, new data reveals. ... (more)

When your spouse's debt collection becomes your nightmare -- If your spouse's credit card debt is headed south and the debt collectors are calling, there is a good chance that your assets are at risk, too. ... (more)

States weigh limits on credit checks for employment -- In July 2009, Hawaii became the second state to limit the practice of allowing all employers to make hiring decisions based on a job applicant's credit score. ... (more)

Killing off the credit card balance that refuses to die -- Late charges, over-the-limit fees, interest rate hikes and cash advance fees can all prevent you from paying down that previously unrelenting credit card balance. ... (more)

Consumer credit card balances plummet -- Credit card balances fell once again in June, according to the latest data from the Federal Reserve, as consumer spending and access to credit remained under pressure. ... (more)

Will there be a global credit score someday? -- Imagine all the people of the world united -- under a single credit scoring model. Depending on whom you ask, the concept of a global credit score is either a far-fetched pipe dream or an eventual reality. ... (more)

Credit scoring goes global -- Dominant in the U.S., the FICO credit score doesn't hold the same status worldwide. That leaves many international lenders looking to local versions of credit scoring models to help judge risk. And the differences from nation to nation can be great. ... (more)

What are your rights when opting out of a rate increase? -- You can't opt out of a rate increase after the stated deadline, but you may be able to freeze the account at the old rate. ... (more)

Substantial debt may arise from unlikely sources -- Most Americans attribute their most bothersome financial burdens to medical costs, eating out and entertainment. However, the worst debt may arise due to other less-recognized reasons. ... (more)

Judge Sonia Sotomayor's personal finances: The house-poor justice -- Unlike the other recent newcomers to the Supreme Court, Sonia Sotomayor's financial profile doesn't make you think of Wall Street. ... (more)

Implantable credit card RFID chips: convenient, but creepy -- Forget the science of it -- and yes, it does work remarkably well. Forget the convenience of it. Forget that similar identifying technologies, from bar codes to mag stripes, overcame similar obstacles and are now ubiquitous. RFID implants face a hurdle the others did not: It's icky. ... (more)

To avoid debt, give your credit your respect and attention -- Don't fear credit cards, our expert tells a reader. Handle them responsibly by giving them your respect and your attention, and they can be more useful than scary. ... (more)

12 cool uses of RFID chips -- Implanting a tiny radio device may not be for you, but it can do some cool tricks. Here are a dozen. ... (more)

Decline in credit card mailings slows -- After months of decline, recent data show banks have begun reconsidering card offers. Synovate, which tracks credit card direct mail, reports that U.S. households received 349.1 million offers in the second quarter -- down just 6 percent from the first quarter ... (more)

U.S. magnetic stripe credit cards on brink of extinction? -- Europe is considering an all-out ban on magnetic stripe credit cards, favoring chip-and-PIN transactions. Will U.S. plastic be left in the dust? ... (more)

Active military personnel protected from interest rate hikes -- The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act offers interest rate limit protections for active duty military personnel. All you have to do is ask, and prove that you've been called to serve. ... (more)

5 new rules in the credit card balance transfer game -- Transferring a credit card balance used to be so easy and painless that some consumers referred to it as a game, but that game has changed. ... (more)

Can one spouse's bankruptcy destroy the other's credit? -- If your spouse files for bankruptcy, your credit score may or may not be impacted, depending on where you live and what you owe. ... (more)

4 ways to fight minimum payment increases -- Thousands of credit card customers were surprised by news that their credit card minimum payments will more than double. Find out what your options are. ... (more)

Credit card APRs jump for 4th time in 5 weeks -- Following a brief pause last week, the national average annual percentage rate on new credit card offers rose for the fourth time in the past five weeks to 12.06 percent, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report. ... (more)

Survey: Credit card, collection complaints growing quickly -- The nation's fastest growing consumer complaints involve aggressive collection tactics for credit card and many other debts, says a survey released Thursday. ... (more)

Study: In romance, big spenders seek big savers and vice versa -- A study reveals that when it comes to money habits, opposites attract, with big spenders attracted to big savers and vice versa. ... (more)

Americans rank high for credit card frugality -- Americans ranked highest among eight major countries in terms of limiting credit card purchases in an attempt to save. ... (more)

Credit card issuers shift rewards to 'platforms' -- Credit card issuers are increasingly consolidating their rewards programs to allow points shopping across categories for numerous cards. ... (more)

Do credit card rewards make people spend more? -- Study: The allure of credit card rewards is one contributing factor that may lead to increased card debt. ... (more)

Be wise when cashing in rewards points -- To reap the most out of credit card rewards programs, it's important to pay attention to which rewards give you more bang for the buck ... (more)

Poll: Credit card issuers punish cardholders, but pursue a few -- Credit card issuers have punished two of every five cardholders by acts such as rate increases, but a few have been rewarded, says a CreditCards.com poll. ... (more)

Considering bankruptcy? Use the 'divide by 60' test to see if you should -- Take your unsecured debt and divide it by 60 to see whether you're a candidate for bankruptcy, says Todd Ossenfort, The Credit Guy. ... (more)

Proving your worth: How entrepreneurs can qualify for credit -- As credit lines tighten, or even disappear, small-business owners are turning to credit cards for survival. But getting approved for plastic is harder than ever. ... (more)

United States credit cards -- Our ongoing series moves to the United States, where the most sweeping credit card industry reforms in decades were passed in May 2009. ... (more)

9 things you must know about debt consolidation -- Debt consolidation programs, called debt management plans, can help you get back on track, but they can also be unnecessary and even detrimental when done poorly or for the wrong reasons. Here's what you need to know. ... (more)

Create a separate credit identity after divorce -- If you are still an authorized user on an ex's credit cards, your credit score is dependent on their payment behavior. Your best bet is to get your own credit. ... (more)

Consumers cash in on credit card scam -- The FTC mailed refund checks to victims of a Florida-based telemarketing credit card scheme. ... (more)

After weeks of increases, credit card APRs finally stand still -- Ending a streak of three straight weekly APR increases, the national average interest rate on new credit card offers held steady this week, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report. Just don't expect it to last. ... (more)

Credit card binding arbitration system crumbling -- A controversial, but common practice in the credit card industry -- requiring consumers to go to arbitrators rather than the courts when disputes arise -- appears on the verge of collapse. ... (more)

Closing credits for filmmakers: Credit cards no longer viable as movie funding source -- Credit is the lifeblood of America's independent film industry, but stringent loan regulations curtailed access to credit and threaten the industry. ... (more)

Don't worry if resold student loan clutters up credit report -- A student loan that's been resold multiple times appears multiple times on a reader's credit report -- once for each time it was sold -- and he wants to know if some of them can be removed. ... (more)

9 tips for job seekers with bad credit -- As the recession drags on, times are getting tougher for job hunters. The good news is you can still find a well-paying job even if you have lousy credit. These nine tips can help. ... (more)

Fed bank regulator's report says national banks still tightening lending standards -- A report from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency shows shows no banks easing credit card standards while 68 percent are tightening up. ... (more)

Study: Credit cards face bleak future -- New research indicates that consumers may never return to their old charging habits, jeopardizing the future of the credit card industry. ... (more)

Bankruptcies per capita, all 50 states, 2007-2009 -- Nevada jumped Tennessee to become the leader in per capita bankruptcy for 2009. Where does your state rank? ... (more)

Leading arbitration firm abruptly quits the business after lawsuit -- A lawsuit by Minnesota's attorney general caused a quick retreat by the leading firm that provides binding arbitration services to millions of credit cardholders. ... (more)

5 post-bankruptcy myths -- While bankruptcy may offer a fresh start, many consumers worry about how it will ultimately impact their financial future. Recovery takes time, but it's not as bleak as you may think. ... (more)

How being an authorized user can hurt your credit score -- If you are an authorized user on someone's credit card account and that account is not in good standing, it will drag down your credit score. ... (more)

Bankruptcy filings return to pre-reform-law pace -- Largely due to the recession, a 2005 law clamping down on filing had only temporary impact. ... (more)

Credit card video: How to opt out of an APR increase -- The Credit Guy -- Todd Ossenfort of Pioneer Credit Counseling -- explains how to opt out of changes to your credit card agreement, specifically changes to your APR ... (more)

Variable interest rate cards replacing fixed rates -- Seven months in advance of the new rules that would limit an issuer's ability to alter a fixed rate account, credit cardholders are being moved to variable rate cards. ... (more)

Protect your credit score during divorce -- When facing divorce, avoid at all costs racking up mounds of credit card debt as you want to be able to start off your new life without undue financial stress. ... (more)

Credit card APRs rise for third straight week -- Borrowing money on a new credit card continues to become increasingly expensive, as banks work to protect themselves from a weak economy. ... (more)

CreditCards.com poll: Americans losing sleep over finances -- More than two out of three Americans are losing sleep because of financial worries, according to a new CreditCards.com poll. ... (more)

Federal Reserve issues final rules on first phase of Credit CARD Act -- The Federal Reserve released the interim final rules on the first phase of the new Credit CARD Act of 2009 covering advance notice of card changes, the right to opt out of changes and providing at least 21 days to pay monthly bills. ... (more)

Will that be cash, check or cell phone? -- Credit card issuers are working hard on rolling out mobile payment technology to U.S. customers. However, compared to Europe and especially Asia, payment by cell phone here is still in its infancy. ... (more)

6 times when it's OK to cut up your cards -- A reader asks Opening Credits a simple question -- "When do credit cards get up?" -- that doesn't have a quick, easy answer. ... (more)

Minnesota Attorney General files lawsuit against National Arbitration Forum -- Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson filed a lawsuit Tuesday against the National Arbitration Forum of Minnesota is unfair to consumers. ... (more)

The greatest gift of all: free travel -- When offered someone else's frequent flier miles for travel, there are some rules of the road that you should follow. ... (more)

Let's talk credit: 8 must-have couple conversations -- Attitudes about using credit cards vary dramatically, and learning a partner's outlook can avert all-too-common money disputes. Here are the eight top credit issues every couple should tackle. ... (more)

Your options when credit card minimum payments skyrocket -- Credit card issuers can change conditions on short notice, including the minimum payment. ... (more)

Is credit card loyalty for chumps? -- Your loyalty may make you a stellar best friend, but it's not doing you any favors with your credit card company these days. The dismal economy may have turned your card issuer into a turncoat. ... (more)

Study: Your brain may be causing your financially risky choices -- A new study suggests you may be predisposed to make risky financial decisions by the same part of your brain that contributes to gambling and shopping addiction. ... (more)

How your financial choices and your brain interact -- This interactive demonstrates how the financial choices we make can be risky or conservative, depending on how one part of your brain -- the ventral striatum -- is wired. ... (more)

Starting a credit life after a spouse's death -- A widow wants to know what she needs to do to keep her mortgage and lines of credit after her husband's death. ... (more)

Discover Spending Monitor: Consumers hold back on discretionary spending -- Consumer spending on discretionary items is expected to diminish due to perceptions that more money will be necessary for groceries and gas in the coming months. ... (more)

Credit card interest rates keep moving higher -- The cost of using credit cards continues to rise, giving consumers yet another reason to keep their plastic in their wallets. ... (more)

Most rental car companies accept debit cards, survey finds -- While it's easier to use a credit card than a debit card to rent a car, nearly all agencies allow debit, a CreditCards.com survey shows. ... (more)

Summary chart: Restrictions rental agencies impose to rent car with debit card -- Renting a car with no credit card? It can be done, but rental car agencies impose many restrictions and extra demands on debit card users. ... (more)

Credit card balances keep falling, Fed says in May's G.19 report on consumer credit -- Credit card balances continued their downward spiral in May, according to the latest data from the Federal Reserve, as cardholders remained hesitant to carry any unnecessary debt during the ongoing recession. ... (more)

Time for the big credit card talk with college students -- The new Credit CARD Act of 2009 limits issuing and marketing credit cards to people under 21. It may mean more parents will have to discuss managing credit with their children. ... (more)

Is it possible to pay off debt TOO quickly? -- A reader asks whether paying off his huge debts in one fell swoop, thanks to an inheritance, can raise red flags and damage his credit. ... (more)

Download a sample credit card contract for parents, young adult children -- This downloadable contract between parents and their young adult children about credit card use can be a starting point for talk about co-signing for a credit card. ... (more)

Your rights when dealing with canceled flights -- When your flight is canceled, you might be surprised to find that the airlines aren't legally required to do much to accommodate you. ... (more)

24 hours of credit card tweets on Twitter -- To find out what Internet users think about plastic, CreditCards.com read and evaluated 24 hours' worth of tweets about credit cards on the social networking site Twitter. ... (more)

Credit card issuers dip a cautious toe into social media -- Credit card companies have made only tentative steps into the social media fray. But while you’re talking on sites such as Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook, they’re listening in -- and planning their next steps. ... (more)

John Grund: A look at the future of credit cards -- Credit card expert John Grund analyzes what consumers can expect to pay for credit in the near future and whether the days of easy credit are over. ... (more)

Avoid bankruptcy during messy divorce -- The last thing you need to do as you start your new, independent, financial life is to put yourself through the trauma of going bankrupt. ... (more)

Credit card interest rates rise ahead of new law -- Regulations plus recession make card issuers pull the APR trigger and hike cardholders' rates. ... (more)

New federal guidelines help consumers dispute credit report errors -- Under a set of newly introduced guidelines, consumers gain the right to take up disputes over credit report inaccuracies diirectly with the businesses that supplied the faulty data. ... (more)

Is your credit card making you sick? Swine (H1N1) flu germs and plastic -- It may not be just that late fee that's making you feel ill: Flu viruses can last for hours -- even weeks -- on plastic surfaces. ... (more)

Strapped for cash? Pawnshops offer short-term solution -- Credit cards maxed out? Look no further than your jewelry box to turn valuables into cash with a quick trip to your local pawnshop. ... (more)

When is it a good time to dump your rewards card for another? -- With so many bonus sign-up rewards cards out there, it becomes difficult to decide when it's time to dump your old card for a new one ... (more)

The world's 10 weirdest currencies -- A Pennsylvania banker's collection of odd currencies reveal much about different times, cultures. ... (more)

Personal loan vs. credit card cash advance to pay for wedding -- For one-time events such as a wedding, go with the loan -- the rates are usually much cheaper. ... (more)

When your ex doesn't pay on joint accounts -- If you rely on your ex to pay down on joint accounts after a divorce, expect to be disappointed. ... (more)

Dumped by your credit card issuer? 5 tips to survive the breakup -- What should you do if you suddenly find yourself dumped? Here are five steps to take when your credit card issuer just isn't into you anymore. ... (more)

Study: Credit card statements 'virtually incomprehensible' -- Research finds that indecipherable credit card statements aren't just an American problem; they cause head-scratching worldwide. ... (more)

CreditCards.com's Weekly Rate Report: Rates barely lower -- The national average annual percentage rate on new credit card offers edged barely lower this week, according to the CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report, but analysts expect interest rates to rise in the not-too-distant future. ... (more)

Fed again holds rates steady, but change may come soon -- Although, as expected, the Federal Reserve didn't boost interest rates with its latest monetary policy announcement, analysts say it is only a matter of time before the Fed hikes its key lending rate. ... (more)

When money woes hit home, take stock and make a plan -- Our expert offers a plan for a family with two young children, a $4,800 monthly mortgage payment, $14,000 in credit card debt and suddenly has been hit with a job loss. ... (more)

Shopping and credit cards: Don't let a convenience become a curse -- For some, a mall and a credit card are a financially toxic mix. It need not be so. These tips will help you become a savvier shopper -- and maybe even save some money. ... (more)

Credit cards around the world -- Credit cards have spread around the globe, but the differences in how they're offered illustrate differences between cultures. ... (more)

Allowing friends to use your credit card = mistake -- After the charges, it may be too late to hold someone else responsible for debt run up on your card with your permission. ... (more)

Credit card personalization: Does Spaghetti Jimmy really win? -- Credit issuers are jumping aboard card personalization trend, convinced family pics on plastic will cause consumers to pull out the card more often. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Credit reports and credit scores -- All you need to know about credit reports and credit scores, including a look at FICO scores and credit histories and why they matter. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: How to dispute credit report errors -- Improve your credit score by removing credit report errors. Includes sample letter for disputing an error, and how to contact the three main credit bureaus -- Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 9 tips for protecting your credit cards, credit score -- 9 tips for protecting not only your credit cards, but your credit score, too. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 8 steps to picking a credit counselor -- Credit counseling agencies can help you get out of debt. Learn how to select the right one for your debt issues. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Free credit reports: How to get the actual free one -- The federal government has mandated the three major credit bureaus give free credit reports to consumers at least once per bureau per year. Here's how to get yours. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: How to add a written statement to your credit report -- Your credit report is usually the final word when it comes to lending, but the rules let you make 100 of those words your own. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 8 legitimate ways to improve your credit score now -- There are no instant miracles that improve a flagging credit score, but there are quick and legal ways to improve it. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 10 ways students can build good credit -- A good credit score is more important than ever, and experts say following these 10 steps can put a student on the right credit path. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Why women need their own credit -- When you get married and vow to love 'for richer or for poorer,' it doesn't mean relinquishing your financial independence. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Don't say 'I do' to bad credit -- With financial mismanagement topping the list of reasons why couples seek divorces, experts say it makes sense to check out your partner’s creditworthiness. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: FICO 08: How new credit score formula will affect you -- When you get married and vow to love 'for richer or for poorer,' it doesn't mean relinquishing your financial independence. ... (more)

Does it matter who is the primary account holder? -- In times past, creditors may have only reported credit history for the primary account holder -- usually the man. Times have changed. ... (more)

How Dad affects your debt, financial decisions -- New research finds that a father's advice, or lack of it, influences their children's money behavior later. ... (more)

CreditCards.com's Weekly Rate Report: Rates unchanged -- Credit card interest rates didn't move this week, but experts say recently introduced laws and an eventual economic recovery likely mean higher credit card APRs in the not-too-distant future. ... (more)

Obama proposes new consumer protection agency for credit cards, other financial services -- The Obama administration proposes creating a Consumer Financial Protection Agency as a consumer watchdog for credit cards and other complicated financial products. ... (more)

Summary: What a Consumer Financial Protection Agency would mean to credit card users -- This table summarizes how credit cardholders would be affected by President Obama's sweeping financial reform proposal. ... (more)

New law bans card payment allocation trickery -- If you use your credit cards for balance transfers or cash advances in addition to making purchases, your credit card payments will soon go further, starting in February. ... (more)

New FICO auto score screens out more buyers -- You may think you're ready for a new set of wheels. But your new credit score could have other ideas. ... (more)

Who owns the rewards on a company card? -- If you are given the option to pay for the AmEx rewards program membership, then most companies should cede ownership of those perks to you ... (more)

When family members ruin your credit -- Authorized users on your credit card have two freedoms: to rack up debt on your account and to bail when it comes to paying it off ... (more)

A comprehensive guide to the Credit CARD Act of 2009 -- The federal government has enacted sweeping reforms into how credit cards work; learn what they mean to you through this interactive guide. ... (more)

Videos: What people are saying about the Credit CARD Act -- A lot has happened since the Credit CARD Act of 2009 was introduced, and much of it recorded on video cameras. ... (more)

Take responsibility for card overspending -- We know times are hard, but when you rack up credit card debt, it's no one else's financial burden but your own. ... (more)

What you buy and where you shop may affect your credit -- The new Credit CARD Act calls for a probe of whether shopping at certain merchants or buying certain items affects your creditworthiness. ... (more)

How to shop your way to a better credit score -- Credit card issuers increasingly use complicated formulas to analyze their cardholders' purchasing patterns for signs of increased risk. ... (more)

European Trade Commission: U.S. overstepping bounds in enforcing onling gambling ban -- The European Commission ruled this week that U.S. laws that ban most forms of online gambling discriminate against European companies and violate international trade agreements. ... (more)

New credit cards to help in fight against breast cancer -- A new credit card launched by Bank of America will allow consumers to help support breast cancer research and the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a prominent breast cancer organization, through their everyday banking activities. ... (more)

Credit card foreign transaction fees going up -- Find out how much using your credit and debit cards will ultimately cost you as some have increased their foreign exchange fees. ... (more)

Are you responsible for your late parent's debts? -- One nervous reader asks whether a credit card company can come after her to pay for her father's debts after he passes away. ... (more)

Finding rewards cards with local customer support -- When searching for a rewards credit card program, some consider outsourced, foreign customer support a huge detractor. ... (more)

Experian: High credit score increases likelihood of ID theft -- Having a high credit score makes it easier -- and cheaper -- for you to borrow money. But according to a new report from credit bureau Experian, that high score also makes it easier for identity thieves to secure stolen credit in your name. ... (more)

ATM provider releases list of safety tips -- ATM service provider PULSE released a list of tips for protecting customers while using debit cards at ATMS and point-of-sale (POS) terminals. ... (more)

Hit with an APR hike? Keep the card or cancel? -- Until the new credit card laws take effect in 2010, your issuer can still change the terms for any reason. If hit with an APR increase, you have two choices: keep it or cancel it. ... (more)

Think you're a credit expert? Take our quizzes and prove it! -- Are you a credit expert? Or maybe you don't know an APR from NPR or CPR. Whichever side you fall on -- or if you're somewhere in the middle -- you can test your knowledge of credit in our quizzes ... (more)

Capital One launches nonprofit card program -- Capital One Financial Corporation announced June 2 the launch of Card Lab Connect, a program to help nonprofit organizations of all sizes expand the ways in which their supporters can donate to charity programs. ... (more)

Fed G.19 consumer credit report shows spending falls again -- As the recession and layoffs continue to take their toll, consumers respond by ditching debt. ... (more)

Protecting your credit score when paying down debt -- It's a Catch-22: you opt to pay down your credit card debt, but then your credit limit gets cut. What's a cardholder to do? ... (more)

Mobile payments predicted to skyrocket -- Mobile payment transactions are expected to catapult to nearly 4.5 billion in 2012 -- a 429 percent increase from an estimated 850 million in 2009, consulting firm Gartner Inc. predicted in a May 28 report by CardLine Global (subscription required). ... (more)

New phone phishing scam on the rise -- Thousands of bank customers are being targeted by a new phishing scam where they are asked to enter their credit card information over the phone, police say. ... (more)

'Free trial' offers can bring unwanted credit card charges -- Ever fall for the "order now and receive a free trial offer" on the latest energy booster or anti-aging cream? You're not alone. Here's how to avoid getting scammed. ... (more)

Priortize payments wisely to knock down debts -- A reader with about $35,000 in debt to various creditors asks our expert which of her many debts she should pay off first. ... (more)

6 tools to help parents teach kids about money -- In these economically challenged times, more parents are looking for ways to help teach their kids how to handle money. Fortunately, there's a wealth of tools -- online and off -- to help them get the job done, regardless of the age of their offspring. We take a look at several of them. ... (more)

With credit card bills, don't be late, negotiate -- Reaching out before the bill is due damages your credit score the least, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

When elderly parents abuse credit cards -- A reader's 80-year-old mother has charged $120,000 on various TV shopping channels. What's a daughter to do? ... (more)

Comparing value of cash back cards vs. rewards -- The value of credit card rewards programs are as different as their participants. Free travel may have more appeal than cash back or vice-versa. ... (more)

Big credit card losses continue to dog U.S. banks -- The banking industry has 3.4 billion reasons why credit card debt is proving to be a major pain in its neck. ... (more)

When negotiating debt, original creditors and third-party collectors differ -- If negotiating to reduce past due credit card debt, the rules and negotiating strategies differ between original creditor, third party collector. ... (more)

Credit card mail offers with annual fees on the rise -- Once nearly extinct for people with good credit, card offers with annual fees are rebounding, research firm Synovate says. ... (more)

Discover deploys military rewards program -- Discover Financial Services will reward U.S. with double cash back and miles for its cardholders who make purchases at military bases. ... (more)

The ugly side of debt collection -- Debt collectors would much rather settle for less than the full amount and get it all at once than receive a small amount each month. ... (more)

Obama signs credit card reforms into law -- His signature starts the enactment clock ticking on new consumer protections. ... (more)

Credit card reform legislation time line -- This interactive time line shows how the sweeping credit card reform bill became a law, and when its different provisions take effect. ... (more)

Credit not right? Time for a credit card checkup -- Is your credit not feeling quite right? If so, it may be overdue for an annual check-up. Fortunately, a thorough exam doesn't involve an appointment with a hard-to-reach specialist: This Rx is strictly DIY. ... (more)

A practical guide of what to expect when filing for bankruptcy -- American bankruptcy laws were created for catastrophic events, where debt resolution can give you a fresh start and let you become a productive, contributing citizen again. ... (more)

Study: Credit cards don't increase spending -- Paying with credit cards instead of cash may in fact not cause consumers to spend more, according to a new study from Carnegie Mellon University. The study goes against current popular theory that people who buy with plastic tend to overspend. ... (more)

No more free pizza? Law will alter cozy relationship between credit card issuers, colleges -- New credit card legislation will change the cozy relationships between banks and colleges -- and mean less free pizza for students. ... (more)

Personal finance experts reveal which credit cards they use and why -- Personal finance experts reveal which credit cards they use -- and why. ... (more)

Will credit card law will hurt more people than it helps? -- Card issuers say the new law will hurt consumers; consumer advocates say the card issuers are bluffing. ... (more)

House easily passes credit card reform bill -- Following today's 361-64 House vote, President Obama is poised to sign credit card restrictions into law. ... (more)

Thinking of buying an $8,000 motorcycle on a credit card? Weigh all options before your purchase -- A reader wants to use a new credit card to buy his dream motorcycle, but our columnist suggests waiting and weighing all his options before making the purchase. ... (more)

Your keys to getting in the 700+ credit score club -- Having good credit pays -- in dollars and cents. In an ever-tightening credit market, having a solid credit history with a credit score well over 700 will open doors to money-saving opportunities ... (more)

Purchase protection on balance transfers -- If you transfer the balance of a credit card purchase to another card, does the original purchase protection still apply? ... (more)

U.S. Senate votes for credit card reform bill -- Riding on a wave of anti-bank and pro-consumer sentiment sweeping the country, the U.S. Senate today passed unprecedented credit card industry reforms designed to help millions of families struggling to pay credit card debt. ... (more)

How to cope until new credit card law takes effect -- Consumer advocates say cardholders should wean themselves off of credit cards, pay down debt and pay on time during this period before new protections kick in. ... (more)

How does America's credit card debt stack up? -- Americans' credit card debt escalated to unprecedented heights as the economic crisis unfolded. CreditCards.com took various statistics on that debt and converted those amounts into $1 bill stacks. ... (more)

Your options for negotiating outstanding debt -- If your income has been dramatically reduced, then you may qualify for some assistance from the creditor that might not negatively affect your credit score. ... (more)

Credit card video: Balance transfers and your credit -- The Credit Guy -- Todd Ossenfort of Pioneer Credit Counseling -- explains what a balance transfer is and how it can affect your credit. ... (more)

Multi-airlines cards versus single-airline cards -- Both multi-arlines rewards cards and single-airline cards have pluses and minuses, and which is right for you depends on what kind of frequent flier you are. ... (more)

8 tips to reduce unemployment prepaid card fees -- For many unemployment recipients, the switch from paper checks to prepaid cards is hardly the win-win situation ... (more)

You can do it! 10 ways to motivate debt repayment -- Just seeing the amount of your liabilities can instill a "Why try? I'll never pay it all off" despair. While high debt can make you feel hopeless, it's not. Effort does produce results. ... (more)

NSBA: Small businesses hurt by credit card terms -- As small business owners become more dependent on credit cards, they are also simultaneously being crunched by the tightened credit market, according to the National Small Business Association (NSBA), an advocate organization for American entrepreneurs. ... (more)

Advanta's credit shutdown could endanger cardholders -- As many as 1 million credit cardholders could be forced to search to find a new issuer, and debt holders could be faced with APRs as high as 35 percent, when small business card issuer Advanta Corp officially shuts down its credit card accounts for future use on June 10. ... (more)

Obama to hold town hall meeting on credit cards this week -- President Barack Obama will hold a town hall meeting on credit cards in Albuquerque, N.M., May 14. ... (more)

Your credit card has a carbon footprint -- A credit card's footprint is roughly the CO2 equivalent of five bank checks, 13 dollar bills -- or the gas to drive a Hummer 150 feet. ... (more)

Eco-friendly initiatives focus on plastic gift cards -- A handful of eco-friendly initiatives are giving new meaning to the term "green card." ... (more)

What's the best way to pay the IRS? -- When faced with a tax bill, it's important to weigh all payment options carefully or you'll end up paying a lot more than you owe. ... (more)

Job fears keep credit card balances falling -- Credit card balances fell further in March, based on the latest data from the Federal Reserve, as cardholders opted to save their money rather than spend on plastic. ... (more)

Fitch: Card delinquencies rise; show signs of slowing -- Credit card losses resulting from rising unemployment and mounting delinquency once again reached record levels in April 2009, according to most recent Credit Card Index report from Fitch Ratings. ... (more)

Feds: Close rate-hike loopholes in credit card rules -- Feds propose rule amendments to close loopholes that would have allowed interest rate hikes by credit card issuers; the public can comment on them until June 4. ... (more)

Rep. Frank introduces bill to allow online gambling -- Don't bet on it quite yet, but you soon might be able to use your credit card to place online wagers, legally and without giving your card numbers to -- and funneling your money through -- a foreign company. ... (more)

Good credit history doesn't go away when card canceled -- If your only credit card gets closed, don't worry. That good credit history that you built will live on, even as the card becomes just a memory. ... (more)

Lending standards keep tightening, Fed says -- It didn't get any easier to borrow on credit cards at the start of this year, based on the Federal Reserve's quarterly loan officers' survey released today. ... (more)

Authors explain how to duck debt reaffirmation traps -- When seeking bankruptcy protection, some unwary consumers may be cajoled or outright conned by their creditors into remaining on the hook for a car loan or home mortgage through a process known as reaffirmation. ... (more)

Can my Social Security benefits be garnished for credit card debt? -- Be at ease; your Social Security can't be garnished for credit card debt. But you still need to get a budget together. ... (more)

American Express, U.S. Bank contend for rewards card customers -- In the wake of Delta's merger with Northwest Airlines, American Express announced April 27 it will be taking over Northwest's WorldPerks rewards program. Meanwhile, WorldPerks' former provider, U.S. Bank, sought to stay competitive by introducing its own expansive rewards card. ... (more)

Stop the temptation of credit card convenience checks -- If you never plan to use the blank 'convenience' checks from your credit card company, consider asking your credit card company to stop sending them. ... (more)

U.S. House passes Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights -- With strong backing from President Obama, a measure reining in credit card issuers passed the House of Representatives -- and even got stronger. ... (more)

If pandemic strikes, will banks, credit cards still work? -- If the swine flu goes pandemic, will your credit card issuer be ready? If it's not, it could mean empty ATMs, disrupted customer service and other such headaches for consumers. For banks, failure to prepare could mean losses of billions of dollars. ... (more)

Visa's debit card transactions overtake credit cards -- In an economy that is encouraging more thrifty behavior, consumers are turning to their debit cards instead of their credit cards at record levels. ... (more)

Bulletin: U.S. House easily passes cardholders' bill of rights -- The U.S. House of Representatives again passes tough consumer credit card protections, but this time with presidential backing. ... (more)

Latest Fed statement offers little relief to credit cardholders -- The latest Federal Reserve announcement provided little fresh support to cardholders hoping for a break from higher interest rates and fees. ... (more)

Survey: 34 million Americans admit paying credit card bills late -- More than 58 million Americans admit they don't pay their bills on time, including 34 million who were late paying credit card bills, according to an annual consumer survey. ... (more)

Credit card charge-offs, delinquencies break records again -- Rising unemployment continued to punish credit cardholders last month, according to a new report from Moody's, as both charge-offs and delinquencies reached record highs. ... (more)

Economy forces consumers to redefine luxury, study says -- In the midst of a recession, Americans are rethinking the need for items they once saw as necessities, according to a new report from the Pew Research Center. ... (more)

Author Joe Hallinan, 'Why We Make Mistakes' author, on financial goofs -- Research shows that when confronted with several credit card offers, most of us choose the wrong one: We'll bite at the attractive teaser rate rather than the best overall terms. ... (more)

6 ways to maximize hotel rewards -- Hotel reward points can help you get more vacation for your buck this year, especially if you take advantage of loyalty program incentives and partnerships between credit card companies, hotels, airlines and retailers. Here are a few tips. ... (more)

Laid off, stuck with company credit card bill -- If you are an authorized user on your company card, then you aren't responsible for payment, but that might not stop collectors from harassing you for it. ... (more)

Why do credit cards have expiration dates? -- When your credit card renews, it's important to re-evaluate and renew any automatic payments. ... (more)

Javelin study: Consumer trust affects credit credit card use -- According to a recent study by Javelin Strategy & Research, consumers' trust level with their financial institution is tied to often they use their credit card. ... (more)

Senators seek 'emergency freeze' to rate hikes on credit card balances -- Sens. Dodd, Schumer want to ban rate increases on credit card balances. ... (more)

Do you lose your miles when canceling a card? -- When canceling a frequent flier credit card, make sure you know how your miles are cached or you just might lose them. ... (more)

Sample credit card interest rate increase opt-out letter -- New credit card law requires issuers to give consumers the right to opt out of interest rate increases. This sample opt-out letter will help you decline them. ... (more)

How to react to a 'rate-jack' attack -- The bad news is in. Your credit card issuer has sent a change in term notice of an impending interest rate hike on your account. But you have options. ... (more)

Keep that first credit card after you've paid off your debts -- A taste for free food or gifts has lured many a college student into credit card debt. But when that debt is paid off, should you cancel that card or keep it around? ... (more)

FTC helps nonbank cardholders figure true cost of credit -- Nonbank credit cardholders who want to figure out how long it will take to pay off their credit card balances by only making the minimum payment can now just call the FTC. ... (more)

Credit card help -- We're featuring highlights from our new section, called Credit Card Help: The Basic Fundamentals of Credit Cards. Our goal is to give you all the information you need to become a smart credit cardholder. ... (more)

Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights passes House committee -- On the eve of a key meeting between President Barack Obama and top credit card industry executives, the House Financial Services Committee passes the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights ... (more)

Is the American love affair with credit cards over? -- It's no surprise that many consumers are unhappy with credit card companies, but their unhappiness may lead to long-term behavioral changes ... (more)

Now's the time to let lenders know you're struggling -- Lenders are aware of the issues facing more and more consumers, and have put in place many measures to help -- but they can't help if they don't know you are struggling. ... (more)

Egg or sperm donation, medical experiments: Struggling consumers go to extremes to tackle debt -- You've given blood, sweat and tears to pay off those credit card bills, but what about your sperm and eggs? In tough times, some consumers see cash offered by participation in medical tests, sperm and egg donation as a viable way to attack card debt. ... (more)

Who's liable for charges on dead dad's credit card? -- An authorized user wonders who's liable for charges on her deceased father's credit card ... (more)

Organizations launch sites to promote financial literacy -- As budgets tighten, bankruptcies mount, and students accrue massive debt, several consumer and banking groups have stepped in to help with new financial educational tools. ... (more)

In bad economy, demand rises among crooks for ID data -- In the midst of a struggling economy, the supply, demand and prices for stolen credit card data in the black market remains high, according to a new study. ... (more)

MasterCard releases 'ATM Hunter' app for iPhone -- Search no more! The free ATM Hunter application allows iPhone users to locate the nearest ATM machine. ... (more)

Coalition takes battle over credit card practices to issuers' boardrooms -- Religion-oriented investors, consumer groups file shareholder proposals asking major credit card corporations to examine their own practices and excise any that are predatory. ... (more)

Study: 'The war on phishing is far from over' -- More consumers were victims of phishing attacks in 2008 -- a 39.8 percent increase from a year earlier -- but the average amount lost decreased, according to a survey conducted by technology research company Gartner. ... (more)

Follow CreditCards.com on Twitter! -- CreditCards.com's editorial team is on Twitter. Check out the latest tweets from Tweeter-in-Chief Daniel P. Ray (aka TakingCharge) or any of the other CreditCards.com staffers listed below. We promise to keep you informed and have some fun along the way ... (more)

Determining value of rewards redemption -- While typically not the best value for your rewards points, redeeming for merchandise can be handy when real "money" is more important in your pocket than any amount of miles or point ... (more)

Top credit card issuers back new debt management plan (DMP) repayment relief program -- In partnership with a major consumer credit counseling accrediting agency, 10 of the nation's largest credit card issuers have agreed to provide additional relief to consumers struggling to repay their debts. ... (more)

Encourage, teens, other children to learn good savings habits -- An early interest in saving money is to be commended! It gives children a head start on a lifetime of good financial habits. ... (more)

Health debit cards take the hassle of medical bill payment -- Despite initial excitement over use and convenience of debit cards for medical expenses, the payment cards have been slow to catch on. ... (more)

Ex-wife maxes out joint cards: Who pays? -- Divorce is at best unpleasant and at worse very painful. Plus, the lingering separation of finances can add to the pain for years. ... (more)

Study: Credit card fraud Americans' biggest fear -- New data say credit card and debit card fraud is the No. 1 fear of Americans, outweighing those of war, terrorism, computer hacking and epidemics. ... (more)

Hybrid credit, prepaid cards may offer crunch relief -- Consumers trapped in the credit crunch may soon have another choice when hybrid credit/prepaid card combos become more widespread. ... (more)

Sallie Mae study finds undergraduates relying heavily on credit cards -- With the recession deepening and tuition skyrocketing, college students are looking to their credit cards and amassing debt at record levels, according to a study by Sallie Mae. ... (more)

Teaching adult children financial responsibility -- Co-signing, when done successfully, is like a set of financial training wheels. It should be used only as a temporary measure until the young person is a little less wobbly. ... (more)

How -- and when -- to use credit cards to pay income taxes to the IRS -- Going into debt to pay taxes may not be the wisest call in the financial playbook, but some people may not have a choice. Here's how to do it wisely. ... (more)

Canceled flight? Want your miles back? Good luck! -- A poor flight experience doesn't mean you can dispute the charges on your credit card and get your miles reimbursed. ... (more)

Citi 'Payment Partner' plan: Bonus to volunteer for credit limit cut -- Citi is the latest credit card issuer to get creative in encouraging customers to make big payments -- or just go away. ... (more)

IRS rules that fee for paying taxes with credit, debit card is deductible -- New ruling creates a break for paying tax by plastic -- but only for some ... (more)

Minimum payments mean maximum trouble with debt -- One reader learns that just making the minimum payments on her credit cards each month can lead to a never-ending debt spiral of negative amortization, where your debt keeps rising even if make payments and stop charging. ... (more)

Best Buy takes over Circuit City cards -- Circuit City cardholders will get Best Buy cards in May. Their new cards would have the same account numbers, rates, fees and terms as their old cards. ... (more)

Capital One pulls out of health care financing market -- Capital One will end its Healthcare Financing program April 10, 2009. The company cites the credit and economic environment. ... (more)

Federal Reserve's February 2009 G.19 report on consumer credit shows biggest drop in 31 years -- Credit card balances suffered their biggest percentage drop in more 30 years in February, according to the latest Federal Reserve data, as consumers responded to the recession by reducing their reliance on plastic. ... (more)

Federal Reserve's February 2009 G.19 report on consumer credit -- Credit card balances declined in February, according to the latest Federal Reserve data, as consumers avoided making all their purchases on plastic even as mounting job losses curtailed incomes. ... (more)

4 ways to receive bonus gift cards -- Shop at the right place or time, ask the right questions and a free gift card could be yours. ... (more)

Credit card glossary terms to know for when you move -- Moving is stressful enough without having to worry about your credit, but if you're not careful and don't plan ahead, the opportunities for a move to cause credit chaos can multiply. ... (more)

Card issuers more willing to make concessions in debt deals, but fewer consumers qualify -- Realizing something's better than nothing, card issuers are OKing more generous debt management plans -- but they're still too costly for many consumers. ... (more)

Retired, widowed, overcome by credit card debt -- Seniors with credit card debt who live just off Social Security may have to make some tough financial decisions in order to live within their income. ... (more)

FDIC: Overdue loans on the rise -- FDIC data shows that every state experienced an increase in unpaid loans from 2007 to 2008. Use this graphic to find out how your state performed. ... (more)

Group issues standards for fair credit cards -- Raised interest rates on nearly one-quarter of credit cards cost consumers more than $10 billion in 2008, one of the many damages of unfair credit practices the Pew Charitable Trust said it hopes to prevent through a list of standards the company released March 31. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Before picking a credit card, know your credit card personality -- With the dizzying variety of credit cards today, it can be tough to choose. Knowing your credit card personality can help sort it out. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Comparing the various types of credit cards and their features -- Overview of card features offered by cards, including standard, reward, frequent flier, student, business and cards for bad credit. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 7 things you must know about credit cards -- Forge a positive and fruitful relationship with credit cards by learning the basics before you apply for an account. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 8 things you must know about credit card debt -- Credit card debt is not inevitable. Here are some basic credit guidelines to help keep you out of debt. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 10 things you should know about identity theft -- Identity theft is often in the news, but there are a lot of misconceptions swirling around about how to best protect yourself. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 7 ways to get the most from rewards credit cards -- With virtually all credit card issuers offering rewards, the issue is not whether you should get a rewards card, but what type of rewards card is best for you. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 9 things you need to know about prepaid cards -- Thinking about picking up a reloadable prepaid card? Here’s what you should know first. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 9 things you should know about balance transfers -- If you’ve racked up debt on a high-interest credit card, transferring the balance to a card with a lower interest may sound like an enticing way to save cash—but it’s not quite as simple as it sounds. Here, get the scoop on what you really need know about balance transfers before you make the big switch. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 10 worst credit card mistakes -- Making these 10 mistakes will turn good credit into bad and bad credit into lenders-won't-go-near-you credit. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Your credit card personality: The Diva / Big spender -- You work hard. You play hard. You like the best of everything. After a tough day at work, you'll tell yourself you deserve a treat, whether it's a new pair of shoes or the latest gadget on the shelf. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Your credit card personality: The Futurist -- You're willing to sacrifice short-term pleasure for long-term gain. You've got your finances under control, you don't often feel the need to splurge, and you like to think carefully about the best way to spend your money. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Your credit card personality: The Newbie -- You're finally out on your own -- so now what? You're inexperienced with credit and while you're ready to test the waters, you don't want to get in over your head. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Your credit card personality: The Better Man/Better Woman -- Even if you don't always make perfect decisions, you're a quick learner. You've gotten in credit trouble in the past, but you've turned over a new leaf. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Your credit card personality: The Veteran -- You're responsible, organized and rarely get in over your head, financially or otherwise. You know your way around a budget, you've got good credit and you pay your bills on time and in full. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: Your credit card personality: The Avoider -- The less you know about your finances, the better. You get uncomfortable talking or even thinking about money. You let your bills stack up because you feel a sense of dread opening them up. ... (more)

Credit Card Help interactive guide: Learn to read, understand your credit report -- This interactive guide displays an example of a personal credit report and explains how each part works. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: How different are Visa, American Express, MasterCard and Discover really? -- You can group the four most widely used cards in pairs with Visa and MasterCard using one system of transaction and American Express and Discover another. Here's a summary of how each pair of cards operates, their histories and other distinctive points. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: The basic fundamentals of credit cards -- We'll help you be a smarter credit cardholder. Our new Credit Card Help section features credit card tips, credit card videos, credit card quizzes and much more. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 7 things to know about business credit cards -- Ready to take your business to the next level? Here's everything you need to know about business credit cards. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 6 things to consider before choosing a credit card -- When picking a card, the No. 1 tip is to know yourself and how you will use the card. ... (more)

Credit Card Help: 8 tips to keep credit card rates and fees low -- As the cost of credit creeps ever higher, micro-managing your finances is assuming greater importance. Here are 8 tips to help you keep your interest rates and fees low. ... (more)

Joint accounts: Till debt do you part -- Having a joint credit card with your spouse doesn't cause your credit histories to mix. But missing a payment will affect both credit scores ... (more)

Credit Card Help: What the new credit card law means for you -- Now that the first portions of the Credit CARD Act of 2009 have gone into effect, here's how its provisions will affect you. ... (more)

Using frequent flier miles for tax-deductible business trip? Figure fair market value -- Using frequent flier miles for a tax-deductible business trip? Careful: There are two ways to determine their value. ... (more)

Survey: 28% of ID theft victims know crime source -- More than one out of four victims of identity theft know how their personal information fell into the wrong hands. The remaining 72 percent are left wondering just how their identity was compromised ... (more)

Cardholders' Bill of Rights passes 1st legislative hurdle -- The 2009 version of the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights passes its first legislative hurdle, but quick implementation was stripped out. ... (more)

Credit card authorized users, joint account holders: Know the difference -- The differences are significant between authorized users and joint account holders -- especially in payment responsibilities. ... (more)

Heartland data breach damages still mounting -- More than two months after the announcement of the Heartland Payment Systems security breach, the processor has continued to draw fire from merchants and issuers. ... (more)

Ad campaign fights credit card interchange fees -- American households pay hundreds of dollars a year in hidden credit card fees called interchange fees each year, a practice that a business coalition has vowed to fight to eliminate. ... (more)

Credit card charge-offs reach 20-year high in February -- Credit card charge-offs hit a 20-year high in February, Moody's reports. The agency blames soaring unemployment numbers, and expects charge-offs to reach double digits this year. ... (more)

Federal Reserve's public comment period ends on automatic overdraft protection -- Almost 2,000 consumers and financial institutions answered the Federal Reserve's call to voice their opinion on overdraft fees. Consumers want see change; banks want little change if any. ... (more)

Credit card video: The basics of debt settlement -- A credit counselor discusses what debt settlement is and how it can help or hurt you. ... (more)

Credit card videos from CreditCards.com -- The latest additions to CreditCards.com's library of video clips are filled with helpful, practical tips to make you more knowledgeable about credit cards -- from rewards credit cards and student credit cards to identity theft and debt prevention. ... (more)

FICO scores stable despite slashed credit limits, study says -- Nearly 20 million consumers had their credit lines reduced or eliminated over a six-month period in 2008 through no fault of their own, but credit scores overall were largely unaffected, according to a recent study by credit scoring giant FICO ... (more)

New York AG claims Chase fee victory -- Chase Card Services insists "customer feedback" -- rather than attorney general or pending lawsuits -- prompted company to rescind $10 fee. ... (more)

7 cases when it's OK to carry a credit card balance -- It's generally unwise to carry a balance, but sometimes the alternatives are worse. ... (more)

Hit with a credit card interest rate increase? Do you cancel card over APR hike? -- When hit with a rate increase on your credit card, it's important to weigh several factors when deciding to keep the card or cancel it. ... (more)

Chase cancels $10 monthly fee -- Citing "customer feedback," Chase Card Services cancels a controversial $10-a-monthly maintenance fee for some 400,000 customers. ... (more)

Fed invites comments on banks' automatic overdraft programs -- The Federal Reserve Board is asking consumers to comment on potential changes to regulations governing banks' controversial overdraft protection programs. ... (more)

Don't be caught off guard by limited purchase protection -- Many assume when we make credit card purchases, the credit card companies will side with us in a dispute. That's not necessarily so. ... (more)

Are credit card rewards taxable? Probably not, but ... -- The IRS has indicated that it does not presently view rewards such as frequent flier miles as income, and therefore they're not taxable. ... (more)

How credit cards can help -- or hurt -- you at tax time -- A collection of stories and tips on filing your 2008 taxes and how credit cards can help -- or hurt -- you at tax time. ... (more)

Stuck with a tax bill? Here are your payment options -- If you're one of those who owe and don't have the dough, you may be tempted to pull out a credit card -- but is that the wisest choice? ... (more)

Credit card interest rates - interactive graphic on APR changes -- Since coming under financial pressure, credit card issuing banks have stopped passing along rate cuts from the Federal Reserve, CreditCards.com data show. ... (more)

Credit card terms are changing for the worse for consumers -- Have you read your credit card terms lately? Many credit card issuers are rolling out new fees, slashing rewards points and hiking existing fees and interest rates -- even for good customers. ... (more)

Calling Dick Tracy: Credit card watches debut -- The wristwatch-credit card combo is fashionable, keeps good time and has a $10,000 credit limit. ... (more)

How to handle credit card bills when pink slips loom -- For those who are struggling to make credit card payments now or will if they lose their jobs, rising interest rates could present a real problem -- but there is help. ... (more)

Prepaid card use rising as credit cards stutter -- As credit cards stumble in a unpredictable economy, three companies are rising stars in the prepaid market. ... (more)

10 grandchildren + $100,000 in card debt = bankruptcy? -- Even though bankruptcy may seem like the answer to clean the debt slate, if you don't change your situation, it won't help at all. ... (more)

'Contactless' credit cards spark concerns for data privacy -- The credit-card swiper you now use at the checkout counter may eventually be obsolete, but privacy advocates question whether contactless cards are more for convenience and less about keeping customers' data safely protected. ... (more)

New survey finds most common ID theft victims -- The most common identity theft victims are middle-aged married females, divorcees, or those who make more than $75,000 a year, according to a December 2008 survey released by Nationwide Insurance. ... (more)

Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights gets 1st House hearing of 2009 -- Federal legislative would codify pro-consumer card regulations; opponents say it would go into effect so fast it would wreck the system. ... (more)

Tricks and tips to keep frequent flier miles from expiring -- You don't have to book a ticket to keep your frequent flier miles from expiring -- you just have to shop. ... (more)

Latest Fed moves won't have much impact on cardholders -- Unable to further reduce interest rates, the Federal Reserve's latest meeting focused on other tools to encourage borrowing and, in turn support a weak economy. ... (more)

7 tips for starting a credit history amid an economic crisis -- In today’s rocky economy, those seeking credit for the first time must adopt new strategies, think creatively. ... (more)

U.S. Bank, AeroMexico forge airline rewards card partnership -- U.S. Bank has partnered with Mexico City-based AeroMexico to offer a frequent flier program through the AeroMexico Visa and AeroMexico Visa Signature credit card. ... (more)

U.S. credit card defaults reach 20-year high -- Credit card defaults -- the failure to make a payment on a debt by the due date -- sprouted in February to a 20-year-high. ... (more)

FTC charges seven credit repair companies with deceit -- The Federal Trade Commission filed a complaint today with the U.S. District Court of New Jersey accusing seven companies and their principals of violating federal law by falsely promising to erase all negative information from a consumer's credit report. ... (more)

New citizen tips for building good credit -- Part of the process in becoming an established U.S. citizen is to start building a solid credit history. ... (more)

What happens to prepaid cards when a business is sold? -- Most business owners follow both logic and good business sense and honor prepaid cards. Sometimes, however, you run into someone who doesn't. ... (more)

Study of credit card binding arbitration says the practice is fair to consumers -- Northwestern University School of Law's Searle Civil Justice Institute's study says arbitration -- at least as practiced by the one group that was studied -- is fair to credit card users. ... (more)

Tracking rewards program changes before they happen -- Credit card rewards programs change all the time, but if you keep on top of things and are flexible, you can cash in those miles or rewards before you lose them. ... (more)

Options when facing a credit card interest rate increase -- Credit card issuers can jack up your interest rate at any time, for any reason, and increases are tougher to duck than before. ... (more)

Credit card video: What is a credit utilization ratio? -- A finance expert explains what a credit utilization ratio is and how it affects your credit score. ... (more)

Credit card video: Benefits of having a credit card -- College students discuss the benefits of owning a credit card, including convenience, back-up, and dealing with emergencies. ... (more)

Credit card video: Credit card rewards and incentives -- College students discuss credit card rewards programs including airline miles, free pizza, cash back offers, percentage off purchase, and more. ... (more)

Credit card video: The basics -- College students discuss their understanding of basic credit card terms - APR, Interest Rate, what happens if you miss a payment and how long it would take to pay off a purchase. ... (more)

Credit card video: A look at student credit cards -- CreditCards.com editors Dan Ray and Connie Prater talk about student credit cards. ... (more)

Credit card video: The perils of sharing a credit card -- Connie Prater, senior writer at CreditCards.com, talks about the results of the 2008 Taking Charge survey, focusing on sharing credit cards. ... (more)

Credit card video: Preparing your finances for disaster -- Hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and wildfires can happen when you least expect it. Prepare your finances before the storm hits. ... (more)

Credit card video: Debt collectors now more willing to deal -- You'd think that debt collection would be booming these days, but even debt collectors are having trouble. They're more willing to cut deals, accept alternate payment plans. ... (more)

Credit card video: Holiday shopping tips -- As the holidays approach, there are many ways consumers can prepare for shopping. Before hitting the malls, beware of debt regret, don't forget buying options such as layaway and make sure you call your credit card company to find out what warranties you may already have ... (more)

Credit card video: 6 tips to protect yourself from ID theft -- Identity theft is a huge problem these days. Gail Cunningham, spokeswoman for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, offers helpful, practical tips to keep yourself safe. ... (more)

Credit card video: Credit card debt warning signs -- A credit counseling expert discusses signs that might indicate you're in trouble with credit card debt. ... (more)

Credit card video: Getting the most from rewards cards -- Want to get the most out of that rewards credit card but aren't sure how to do it? Credit counseling expert Gail Cunningham shares practical tips to help you do just that. ... (more)

Archive of credit card videos from CreditCards.com -- A complete library of video clips from CreditCards.com filled with helpful, practical tips to make you more knowledgeable about credit cards -- from rewards credit cards and student credit cards to identity theft and debt prevention. ... (more)

Credit card glossary terms to know when buying a house -- When buying your first home, have a good credit history can save you thousands in mortgage interest costs. ... (more)

Credit card glossary terms to know for students -- Before your child heads off to college, make sure you sit down and talk about financial responsibility, budgets and how credit cards should, and shouldn't, be used. ... (more)

Credit card glossary terms to know when filing for bankruptcy -- Experts will tell you that bankruptcy should be a last resort after all other avenues to repay your debt have been exhausted. ... (more)

Credit card glossary terms to know for identity theft -- The most proactive step consumers can take to detect fraud is to monitor closely their bank and credit card statements. ... (more)

Credit card glossary terms to know for when you marry -- Getting married is more than combining kitchen appliances, it's also combining finances. ... (more)

Credit card glossary terms to know when you're in debt -- Experts advise to always pay off your balance, don't spend more than you have and keep your credit balance well below 50 percent of your available credit. ... (more)

Credit card glossary terms to know for first-time card users -- Ready for your first credit card? Before you start charging, here are credit card terms that will help you become a responsible credit card user. ... (more)

What to do if your retail credit card issuer goes bankrupt -- Millions of private label cardholders are seeing retailers go into bankruptcy, or worse, go under. The question then is to whom do you pay, and do you have to pay at all? ... (more)

Credit card delinquencies fell year to year, TransUnion says -- Although recent data showed an annual decline in credit card delinquencies during late 2008, that trend is likely already over. ... (more)

Tiny payments don't keep creditors away -- Contrary to urban legend, making a small payment won't keep the creditors away; you have to pay at least the minimum payment. ... (more)

Federal Reserve's January 2009 G.19 report on consumer credit shows jump in spending -- Credit card balances rose in January, according to the latest data from the Federal Reserve, as workers saved their incomes and the unemployed were forced to live on plastic. ... (more)

Federal Reserve's January 2009 G.19 report on consumer spending -- Credit card balances rose in January, according to the latest data from the Federal Reserve, as consumers had difficulty paying down debt in a troubled economy. ... (more)

Good credit cardholders lumped in with bad -- Banks are pulling back more than ever before to limit the amount of risk they have, so even perfect payment clients are compromised ... (more)

Credit card issuers beware: Feds will be watching -- Federal regulators will use federal law against unfair or deceptive trade practices to judge future credit card practices. ... (more)

Citi teams with MySpace for unique rewards program -- Cardholders of the new Citi Forward by MySpace will be able to earn rewards by helping their communities. ... (more)

Credit card fraud victims more likely to recover losses -- Five percent of Americans were victims of financial fraud in 2008, but those who had money stolen from credit and debit cards were more likely to recover their losses. ... (more)

How to find the best airline rewards bonus miles deal -- In the market for a new rewards card? Make sure you scour Google to make sure you get the best bonus miles deal out there. ... (more)

ACA proposes changes to debt collection law -- The responsibility of notifying creditors they have filed for bankruptcy should be more in the hands of consumers, according to the Association of Credit and Collection Professionals. ... (more)

How finance experts advise teens about money -- We quizzed parents who have financial backgrounds on what money advice they would give to other parents with teens and money situations. ... (more)

Visa changes worldwide slogan from 'Life Takes Visa' to 'More people go with Visa' -- Visa kicks off a new global advertising campaign that is geared more toward living in the moment rather than paying for it later. ... (more)

$200 billion in 'TALF' funds ready to revive consumer lending -- Loans for credit cards may soon be a little easier to get as $200 billion in the TALF program will be injected into the frozen lending sectors. ... (more)

When it's OK to fund your IRA with a credit card -- As crazy as it sounds, you might consider funding your IRA by using a credit card cash advance. Be warned, however, that this is risky and an option only for a select few. ... (more)

Credit card charge-offs hit record high in January -- Banks increasingly abandoned their attempts to collect money from delinquent credit cardholders in January, according to research and risk analysis firm Moody's. ... (more)

When credit card debt ruins retirement -- When credit card debt dulls the glow of your golden years, you have options: reverse mortgages, bankruptcy or credit counseling. ... (more)

Mad at your credit card issuer? You still have to pay -- Mad at your credit card issuer? While you may resent having to pay that bill, choosing not to pay it will hurt you even more. ... (more)

Credit card biometrics making its way from the movies to the marketplace -- Credit cards with biometric security features may no longer be the stuff of spy movies, but a mainstream alternative to sloppy signatures and forgotten passwords. ... (more)

ID theft, debt collection top list of consumer complaints -- In the Federal Trade Commission's 2008 compilation of consumer gripes, ID Theft ran first for the ninth straight year, and complaints about credit cards jumped into the top 20. ... (more)

FTC urges changes to Fair Debt Collection Practices Act -- The FTC announces in a Feb. 26, 2009, report that the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act be updated to reflect changes in technology and to improve consumer protections. ... (more)

'Tokenization' touted as a new way to increase credit card data security -- Rather than spend more making credit card data hackproof, a new concept would prevent ID theft by never having merchants store the data in the first place. ... (more)

New credit card to assist Holocaust survivors -- The new Blue Card Visa affinity credit card can be used by consumers to provide care for Holocaust survivors. ... (more)

Debunking myths about frequent flier programs -- Even with flights being cut back, now is the time to redeem your frequent flier miles. Competition for once-rare seats has lessened and airlines have made it easier to comparison shop. ... (more)

How different are Visa, AmEx, MasterCard and Discover? -- A reader looking for their first credit card wants to know the differences among Visa, American Express, MasterCard and Discover. ... (more)

Laid off and in debt: 5 steps to take now to keep credit intact -- Millions of Americans are now without jobs, and many most likely carry credit card debt. Here are steps to take immediately to protect your credit. ... (more)

Target profits plunge following credit card losses -- Target Corp. reports a 41 percent decrease in fourth-quarter profit, attributing the loss to a drop-off in retail sales and credit card delinquency. ... (more)

Commercial, business credit cards not covered by new federal regulations -- New credit card rules approved by federal regulators in December 2008 give greater protections to consumers and families with credit cards -- but not to corporate or small business cardholders. ... (more)

Wal-Mart cuts its prepaid MoneyCard fees -- In a move to capture a larger share of the prepaid card market, Wal-Mart Stores Inc. announced it is cutting the price of its MoneyCard. ... (more)

9 ways to budget with a prepaid card -- Living without plastic is hard, but switching to prepaid cards can help you avoid debt and teach you how to live within your means. ... (more)

Consumers have fewer options for using credit cards for medical expenses -- As the credit crunch deepens, using credit cards to pay for health and medical expenses may no longer be an option. ... (more)

Exercise caution when selling jewelry to pay down debt -- Selling off jewelry to pay down credit card debt can be a good idea -- as long as you don't get ripped off ... (more)

Trial version of iPhone credit card processing app available -- iPhone users’ wait for ProcessAway, an application that can turn their mobile device into a handheld credit card terminal, just got a little shorter. ... (more)

Example shows how switching credit cards has become harder, costlier -- We took some typical prices of cards and fees in the credit card marketplace of early 2009 and find that for the credit card shopper who fits the average, the cost is ... ... (more)

Don't like your credit card terms? Just switch, right? Maybe, maybe not. -- If you don't like your credit card, just get a new one, right? Not so easy any more. ... (more)

How the IRS treats frequent flier credit card rewards -- are they taxable income? -- When cashing in frequent flier miles, it's important to know whether the IRS considers them gifts or taxable income. ... (more)

Issuers offer new tools to aid, educate credit cardholders -- The lending industry may have played a major role in leading us into the current financial crisis, but when it comes to consumers' personal finances, credit card issuers want you to know they are here to help. ... (more)

Minor's credit card contract raises legal, ethical questions -- A credit card contract with 17-year-old is likely not enforceable -- with some exceptions. However, continuing to run up debt on that card raises some tricky moral and ethical questions. ... (more)

4 reasons you should get a department store credit card -- Often (and justly) maligned, retail store cards sometimes can help. ... (more)

Your future in the cards: What will credit cards look like in 25, 50 or 100 years? -- Your future in cards will probably not include plastic, experts say. ... (more)

ATMs aren't just for cash withdrawals anymore -- Stamps? Gift cards? Bill pay? Concert tickets? In the past few years, automated teller machines have started offering more than cash. ... (more)

Not all issuers allow you to opt out of rate increases -- When hit with a sudden increase to your APR, most card companies allow you to opt out, keep the old rate and pay off the balance, but not all are so kind. ... (more)

Consumers lose access to major credit score -- Consumers have lost access to a key version of the credit score many banks use to make lending decisions. ... (more)

Despite media reports, with good credit, you can get a credit card -- "Credit crunch." "Card issuers tightening their belts." "Credit limits cut." "Interest rates jacked." You've seen the headlines, but just how bad is it? Can you still get a credit card? ... (more)

Steps to take to pay off old debt -- Your credit report may not reveal all past debts, but contacting creditors may restart the clock on the statute of limitations. ... (more)

Chart: Compare some of the best rewards cards -- Details of the offers from some of the best rewards cards ... (more)

Where some of the best rewards cards can be found -- Despite an overall tightening of credit, some credit card issuers are actually sweetening reward offers. ... (more)

Average credit card balances rose to $7,300 in 2007, Fed survey says -- The Federal Reserve released its triennial look at Americans' finances. Seven in 10 households have credit cards, but nearly half carry balances each month ... (more)

From 'Gossip Girl' to 'The Stand': 8 novels show how credit cards appear in fiction, novels -- Whether it's "Gossip Girl," "Twilight" or "The Stand," popular works of fiction have shone a light on how we handle credit cards and debt. ... (more)

Consider these factors when deciding to cancel credit cards -- A reader with 11 credit cards wants to know how cancelling several of her cards will impact her credit score. ... (more)

6 ways to protect your identity in a data breach -- As data breaches become more prolific, it's important to be more proactive in protecting yourself from identity theft. ... (more)

Lessons in paying off delinquent debt -- Settling an old debt won't necessarily improve your credit score, but it can free you of the collection process and to know that you made good on your obligation ... (more)

Don't take the refund anticipation loan bait -- Refund anticipation loans continue to lure consumers -- even though they come with a hefty fees and surcharges. ... (more)

Federal Reserve's December 2008 G.19 report on consumer spending -- Consumers sharply reduced their credit card balances in December, according to monthly data from the Federal Reserve, as even the holidays weren't enough to drive spending on plastic. ... (more)

Federal Reserve's December 2008 G.19 report on consumer spending -- Consumers sharply reduced their credit card balances in December, according to monthly data from the Federal Reserve, as borrowers paid for fewer expenses with plastic. ... (more)

Q&A with credit card and debt expert Amelia Warren Tyagi -- Why aren't credit card contracts tested for product safety just like toasters? That's exactly the sort of fundamental common sense asked by author and debt expert Amelia Warren Tyagi. ... (more)

How to avoid debt collectors' fees -- Debt collectors often try to tack on a separate fee to your debt, which is governed by law and has to be reasonable. ... (more)

Research: Direct mail credit card offers plummeted in 2008 -- Those offers that did go out went mainly to the wealthy, according to Mintel Comperemedia research. ... (more)

Credit card forbearance programs offer reprieve from debt -- Major credit card issuers' programs that allow temporary relief for overstretched cardholders are busier than ever, and some of the issuers are improving them. ... (more)

Experian FICO score may soon be off-limits to consumers -- Come Valentine's Day, you will likely lose access to your FICO score from credit bureau Experian, even though lenders will continue to use that score to make decisions about your credit. ... (more)

7 ways the sexes handle credit differently -- Think you and your partner whip out the credit cards for different reasons? What about debt repayment -- is there a difference between the sexes? The answers may surprise you. ... (more)

5 tips for protecting your credit during marriage breakup -- Marriage breakups are messy, messy things. However, taking these five steps can help you protect your credit during this trying time. ... (more)

Fitch: Credit card late payments hit record high, charge-offs spike -- Fitch Ratings reports that the recession is taking its toll on credit cardholders, as a record number of them pay their bills late. ... (more)

Couples should debt plan when estate planning -- Avoid headaches for surviving spouses by taking responsibility for debt balances into estate planning. ... (more)

Fed report: Banks continue to tighten lending standards -- Banks remain hesitant to extend credit to consumer borrowers, according to the results of the latest Federal Reserve survey of senior loan officers, with more than half of lenders saying they tightened their credit card lending standards in the last three months of 2008. ... (more)

Income down, bills up. Time for credit counseling? -- When faced with spiraling debt, seeking advice from an accredited debt counselor will help you consider your options. ... (more)

Used wisely, small business credit cards keep business afloat -- Wisely used credit cards can be a convenient source of cash for anyone, but for business owners, the stakes are often higher since credit cards can help small businesses stay afloat ... (more)

Small business credit card comparison chart -- According to the national Small Business Association’s 2008 Survey of Small and Mid-Sized Businesses, credit cards are the biggest source of financing for small business owners. Here's a comparison chart of the top small business credit cards. ... (more)

When medical problems hit, bankruptcy can make sense -- Bankruptcy laws were created for catastrophic situations, not for carelessness. However, filing should be done only when other options have been considered. ... (more)

Long-awaited credit scoring revisions unveiled -- The rollout of the long-awaited update to Fair Isaac's popular FICO credit scoring model was finally announced today, but it will likely take some before the changes have a real impact. ... (more)

7 credit card myths debunked -- We've all heard them, and we've probably believed more than a few. But living by a credit card myth can cost you in fees and hurt your credit rating. Here are seven of the most pervasive credit card myths to watch out for. ... (more)

7 bad credit card habits to break now -- and how to break them -- Just about everyone has a few destructive habits to break -- and when it comes to credit, the sooner you replace them with more positive behaviors, the more money you'll save. ... (more)

Unable to cut interest rates, Fed seeks new economy-boosting tools -- Unable to lower interest rates further, the Federal Reserve today announced plans to instead use other means to kick-start a stalled economy. ... (more)

Out of ammo, Federal Reserve invents new guns -- With no room to lower interest rates further, the Federal Reserve today announced plans to instead invent alternate means to prop up the economy. ... (more)

5 tips for talking to elderly parents about credit card debt -- As parents age, many of their children have to get more involved in their finances. We look at when, why and how to step in, how to handle problems that broaching the topic might create, and how to handle the relationship on an ongoing basis once you've gotten involved. ... (more)

Don't take the bait when you receive a 'phishing' e-mail -- Legitimate companies don't ask for your private, personal information via e-mail. Don't let a logo lure you into a 'phishing' scam or in can cost you. ... (more)

House of cards: Charging mortgages idea fails -- Charging your mortgage may not bet the wisest financial decision, but that didn't stop several companies from trying to get you to do it. ... (more)

6 tips for choosing a money club -- Looking at joining an existing money club? Here are six factors to consider to make the best match. ... (more)

When loaning money, weigh your own financial situation first -- When helping someone out financially, a good rule of thumb to consider is if the assistance would immediately or in the future cause havoc with your own personal finances. ... (more)

Money clubs make a comeback -- If you're one of those people who finds that a little group support never hurts, you may want to organize a money club. ... (more)

Canceled debts will lead to IRS tax -- When collectors discharge old debts, they will report that to the IRS as income to you, leaving you with what could be a hefty tax bill. ... (more)

Bankruptcies surge in 2008, passing 1 million mark again -- Personal bankruptcies surged to more than 1 million filings in the United States in 2008 -- the most since a rewrite of bankruptcy laws took effect in 2005. ... (more)

Poll: 1 in 3 resolve to slash debt this year -- About 1 in 3 consumers resolved to reduce their debt in 2009, based on New Year's resolutions outlined in a new poll from CreditCards.com. Still, Americans are more committed to spending time with family and losing weight than erasing their debt. ... (more)

The spiritual side of debt counseling: faith-based debt counselors abound -- For the devout in search of debt counseling, faith-based organizations can offer more than just number-crunching, dollars-and-cents advice. They can offer spiritually sound financial counsel that can help debtors chart a course to financial freedom. ... (more)

Poll: Holiday spending less pleasant for consumers -- A new CreditCards.com poll shows two out of five Americans report less pleasant holiday shopping than last year. ... (more)

Too much fast food can be hazardous to your credit -- No, where you eat doesn't have an impact on your credit score, but that's not the full story. While paying plastic for that Big Mac won't hurt your credit score, it might just make issuers think that you're a credit risk. ... (more)

Are you a bankruptcy risk? Enigmatic score may tell lenders -- It's a number that lenders may consider when deciding whether or not to lend you money, but it isn't the well-known credit score. Meet the bankruptcy score, the credit score's more mysterious cousin. ... (more)

Unlawful Internet Gambling Act regulations finalized for credit card issuers -- New federal regulations take effect Jan. 19, 2009, that require credit card issuers to enforce a bewildering set of federal regulations aimed at stopping online gambling. ... (more)

Online gambling a multibillion dollar industry -- Internet gambling started around 1995 and has grown into a multibillion dollar industry. ... (more)

Suspect identity theft? How to check for, fix ID theft or fraud -- You can opt out of unwanted mail solicitations, but a sudden flurry could be a hint that new credit has been opened in your name. ... (more)

7 times when it's OK to cancel a credit card -- Whether you're telling a joke or canceling a credit card, timing really is everything. ... (more)

How to keep debt collectors at bay -- No matter what your circumstances, you have the legal right to ask collectors to stop harassment ... (more)

More Americans getting free FICO scores -- Fair Isaac inks deal to let credit union members see once-secret score at no charge. ... (more)

How to replace a lost or stolen gift card -- The reason so many of us love gift cards -- they're a lot like cash -- is also the reason they can be hard to replace when they're stolen or lost. However, there are steps you can take to reclaim that moolah. ... (more)

Round 2 for Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights -- Two New York Congress members are reintroducing the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights. Will the second time around be a winner for credit card practices law? ... (more)

How credit card transactions work -- This interactive graphic shows what happens when you swipe a credit card, from the merchant to the processing network to the issuing and acquiring banks. ... (more)

Your credit card is a tattletale: With electronic payments, little is private -- Credit card issuers have access to a wealth of information about where you shop, how much you spend and how often. Increasingly, they use that data to change your access to credit. ... (more)

How to finance a wedding or an engagement ring -- If you want her to marry you for richer and not poorer, study the fine print to make sure the bauble on her finger doesn't turn into a ball and chain on your newlywed finances. ... (more)

Poll: Credit card payments last on list of bills -- A new CreditCards.com poll shows cash-strapped Americans would pay their credit card bills last and mortgage first. Credit card debt is still a taboo topic. ... (more)

Here's how to help young adults with bad credit -- Many young adults find themselves in credit card debt with no means or knowledge on how to get themselves out. Here's some advice. ... (more)

Credit card statistics, industry facts, debt statistics -- Read recent credit card statistics, surveys and research from a variety of sources. This frequently updated compilation of credit card statistics is all sourced, making fact-checking and research easy. ... (more)

Financial steps to take when you're sinking in debt -- When you're behind on your mortgage and credit card bills, figuring out how to stay afloat may seem impossible, but there are drastic measure you can take to keep from sinking. ... (more)

7 things not to do when you've maxed out your credit cards -- With unemployment rising and many credit card companies slamming the door on new credit and slashing current credit limits, many consumers find themselves moving ever closer to maxing out their credit cards. In this situation, the best thing to do may be to figure out what you shouldn't do. ... (more)

Federal Reserve's November 2008 G.19 report on consumer spending -- Credit card balances plunged in November, as consumers strongly reined in their borrowing. ... (more)

Breaking news: Federal Reserve's November 2008 G.19 report on consumer spending -- Credit card balances shrank in November, as concern over banks' strict lending standards caused consumers to rein in their spending. ... (more)

How to turn your driver's license into a debit card -- If you live in one of 24 states that attach a magnetic stripe to their driver's licenses, you can easily transform yours into a debit card. ... (more)

Take these 3 steps when bank account seized by collectors -- You can't stop or reverse the seizure of your bank account to repay outstanding debts, but you can take steps to protect your other assets and rebuild your credit. We'll lay out what you should do. ... (more)

6 new rules for negotiating changes in credit card terms -- With credit card companies slashing credit lines and raising interest rates to recoup heavy losses, cardholders face new hurdles when trying to negotiate credit card terms. ... (more)

How your credit card can bail you out of debt -- Often criticized for encouraging overspending, several credit card issuers recently rolled out programs and rewards cards to help customers pay off debt, save and invest. ... (more)

Statute of limitation for credit card debt, all 50 states -- Creditors have a limited time in which to file suit over unpaid credit card debt. Here are the statutes of limitation for all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia. ... (more)

U.S. bankruptcies top 1 million in '08 -- U.S. bankruptcy filings topped 1 million in 2008, according to figures released by the American Bankruptcy Institute. ... (more)

How to keep a small business credit card limit from being cut -- Those who rely on small business cards with high limits to keep their shops running need to be proactive. ... (more)

7 irrational credit card fears (and 7 REAL worries) -- Are you or someone you know afraid to use -- or even obtain -- plastic? Sure, credit cards come with a series of essential cautions, but overall they are safe and useful financial management tools. ... (more)

Credit card balance transfers: The landscape is changing -- Balance transfers are valuable tools, but the radically changed 2009 landscape means they're trickier and harder to find. ... (more)

Are three cards too many? Not if you use them wisely -- There's no one answer to how many cards are too many. Lots of variables come into play, including how you use the cards and how you make your payments. ... (more)

Best credit card stories of 2008 -- The year 2008 saw unprecedented change in the credit card industry, turning card debt from convenient friend into everyone's enemy. These are the top 10 stories that helped chronicle it. ... (more)

6 steps to a successful credit card balance transfer -- Balance transfers aren't easy any more. Take these steps to increase your odds of success. ... (more)

9 predictions for credit cards in 2009 -- This has been a tumultuous year for credit cardholders and issuers. What does 2009 hold? We'll take a look. ... (more)

Balance transfer 101: Tips, advice on transferring credit card balances -- Learn the steps critical to successfully performing a balance transfer. ... (more)

Credit card debt consolidation -- Credit card consolidation may be right for you if you are facing high interest rates. ... (more)

Payment strategies for holiday debt -- The holiday season is a wonderful time for relaxing with family and friends and exchanging gifts. However, ongoing economic troubles can make it hard to save ... (more)

Balance transfer offers: Compare your options -- Learn how to find the best balance transfer credit card offers. ... (more)

Credit card consolidation -- Methods for credit card consolidation and how to save money in interest and finance charges. ... (more)

Credit card recommendations for your post holiday bills -- Credit card bill-paying tactics that can help you deal with high post holiday card payments. ... (more)

Multiple balance transfers can hurt your credit -- A repeated pattern of transferring from one balance transfer credit card to the next each time the introductory APR expires can be a bad idea. ... (more)

Become debt-free with credit card debt consolidation -- If you have a large outstanding credit card balance, now might be the time to consider your credit card debt consolidation options. ... (more)

Medical identity theft: what it is, how to prevent it -- Treat your health insurance card as you would a credit card or driver's license, because like the other forms of identification, great harm can be done if it falls in the wrong hands. ... (more)

Strategies for escaping a too-expensive auto lease -- If you signed an lease that turns out to be unaffordable, you have a few options, but most aren't pretty. ... (more)

Credit score formulas not changing as credit limits slashed -- Banks' decision to cut credit limits may hurt cardholders, but borrowers shouldn't expect any immediate help from the companies that decide how those lines of credit impact credit scores. ... (more)

The pros and cons of credit union credit cards -- Credit unions -- banks' nonprofit competitors -- can offer cards with low APRs and late fees and often beat banks in customer service surveys. But they aren't for everyone. ... (more)

Leaving debt behind in another country -- Although credit scores don't cross borders, don't bank on being able to just move away from your money troubles. ... (more)

Card issuers, customers 'maxed-out' in frustrating holiday season -- Credit card issuers cutting credit lines. Cardholders strapped for cash. Both sides of the credit card equation are being squeezed, causing some uncomfortable situations at the cash register this holiday season. ... (more)

Do your homework when shopping for your first credit card -- No credit history definitely doesn't mean that you can't get a credit card. It does, however, mean that you'll have fewer options, making it crucially important that you do your homework. ... (more)

Specialty gift cards and comparison chart -- Bird lover? Chocoholic? As a holiday gift-giver, it might be nice to give a specialty gift card that will encourage recipients to temporarily forgo frugality, despite the glum economy. ... (more)

Your future monthly credit card statement -- Federal regulators have asked credit card issuers to make monthly statements sent to millions of credit card users easier to understand. The deadline for the changes to take effect is July 1, 2010, although some issuers may roll out revamped statements sooner. ... (more)

Ignoring old debt can come back to haunt -- Lenders view delinquent, but paid off debt better than delinquent unpaid debt. ... (more)

Giving the gift of flight with airline gift cards -- Anyone considering giving an airline gift card should make sure all the terms and conditions won't prevent redemption ... (more)

Airline gift card comparison chart -- Anyone considering giving an airline gift card should check all the terms and conditions first to make sure your gift is a good fit ... (more)

Credit card marketer must repay customers $114 million -- The Federal Trade Commission has ended its suit against subprime credit card marketer CompuCredit Corp. with an agreement for the company to repay card users $114 million. ... (more)

The wisdom of bailing family members out of debt -- if that fresh start comes too easily, in a few years they can be back in line looking for another fresh start, and another. ... (more)

2008 credit card holiday promotions -- Credit card issuers are sweetening their deals at the end of 2008 by adding rewards and special offers from merchants. ... (more)

How to manage credit card accounts until new rules kick in -- Even though regulators have approved tough new credit card rules, consumers still must watch out for tricks and traps of the credit card game. Here's a checklist of what to do. ... (more)

What the new credit card rules don't cover -- New credit card industry rules are the most significant in three decades, but they don't go far enough to protect consumers from credit card abuses, lawmakers and advocates say. Here's what's missing. ... (more)

Federal banking agencies finalize new credit card regulations to take effect starting July 2010 -- Federal regulators approved the most sweeping credit card industry reforms in nearly three decades, limiting interest rate hikes on existing credit card balances, giving cardholders a reasonable amount of time to pay bills and requiring better disclosure of key credit card terms. ... (more)

Credit union regulator approves new credit card rules -- New rules will fundamentally change the way credit cards operate, but won't take effect until July 1, 2010. Consumer advocates say that's too long to help families struggling with debt in today's economy. ... (more)

Thrift group approves new credit card rules -- One of three federal regulatory agencies approves sweeping new credit card rules. Fed and credit union group expected to follow suit. ... (more)

Disabled daughter needs advocate in dealing with debt -- A worried mom asks how she can help her disabled daughter who is unable to make minimum credit card payments. ... (more)

Understanding credit card minimum payments -- Your credit card's minimum-payment-due amount can be a mysteriously shifting figure that makes a significant impact on the monthly budget. We'll help you solve the riddle. ... (more)

Fed slashes benchmark interest rate to record low -- It was largely a symbolic move, but the Federal Reserve today cut a key short-term interest rate to its lowest level in history. Just don't expect it to have much impact on your credit card's APR. ... (more)

Fed cuts key interest rate to record low -- In what was largely a symbolic move, the Federal Reserve today cut interest rates to their lowest level in history. That decision is not expected to have much impact on annual percentage rates for credit cards. ... (more)

Gifts that give twice: Charitable gift cards -- Give more meaning and economize your holiday gift giving by purchasing gifts that give twice -- charity gift cards. ... (more)

Give more with less through charity credit cards -- If you're skipping your charity's annual black-tie fundraiser to make ends meet this season, try giving with a charity credit card to give a little back without affecting your budget. ... (more)

7 tips to avoid a credit card late fee -- Being even a minute late with a credit card payment can cost you dearly -- as much as $39 each time, according to one recent survey -- but some simple steps can help keep your exposure to these extra costs to a minimum. ... (more)

Creating a plan to pay off $60,000 in credit card debt -- A reasonable amount of time to pay off unsecured debt is five years or less, so in order to pay off $60,000, expect to pay about $1,300 a month ... (more)

Just say no to store credit cards -- There are too many reasons why you shouldn't want a credit card for every store in the mall, so pass up those one-time discounts. ... (more)

Consumers to get $150 million in Wachovia settlement -- Beginning Thursday, Wachovia Bank will mail out checks totaling over $150 million to more than 740,000 consumers. The payout stems from a settlement between the bank and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency regarding acts committed by telemarketers that had relationships with Wachovia. ... (more)

Gift cards: Everything you need to know -- A collection of stories and resources on gift card shopping -- from comparing gift cards to finding gift card discounts and presenting them with finesse. ... (more)

Tips to get the most from bankrupt retailers' gift cards -- If you're like most Americans, you have some unused gift cards, and you'll likely get more of the popular plastic this holiday season. But even as more companies declare bankruptcy, there are steps you can take to avoid ending up with a useless gift card. ... (more)

Regulators will vote on new credit card rules -- The Federal Reserve Board will meet in Washington, D.C., this week to vote on sweeping new credit card industry regulations. ... (more)

FTC settles 'Tele-PHONEY' case against fee-harvesting credit card -- Florida-based company used fast-talking computerized voice to deceive consumers, federal agency alleges. ... (more)

Keeping your credit score clean before you close on a home -- Unwitting homebuyers who go on a credit card binge risk losing their pre-approval status and financing. ... (more)

Give the gift of credit card know-how this holiday -- Thinking of giving your kids credit cards this holiday? The best gift you can give them is an education in credit, and CreditCards.com is a terrific place to start. ... (more)

Deferred interest, same as cash; Play the game right or you lose -- It's tempting: "No payments until 2010." Find out the how deferred interest payment programs work, the best way to use them and what happens if you don't pay on time. ... (more)

The rules behind getting a free credit report -- FACTA provides that the three major credit reporting bureaus must provide a free copy of your credit report every 12-month period. ... (more)

Student credit card issuers losing their welcome on campus -- Despite the big money many colleges earn from making deals with card issuers, some schools and states are clamping down on giving banks access. ... (more)

Tips for college students considering credit cards -- Consumer advocates and college officials offer advice to students who may not be familiar with the world of credit cards ... (more)

Federal Reserve's October 2008 G.19 report on consumer spending -- Credit card balances shrank in October, as the tightening of credit by banks and limited consumer budgets made it more difficult for cardholders to put charges on their plastic. ... (more)

Breaking news: Federal Reserve's October 2008 G.19 report on consumer spending -- Credit card balances shrank in October, as the tightening of credit by banks made it more difficult for consumers to put charges on their plastic. ... (more)

Elderly mother can't pay $14,400 in credit card debt -- An 83-year-old woman can't meet her minimum credit card payments on $14,400 in credit card debt. ... (more)

10 tips for graduating from subprime to prime credit cardholder -- While most people wisely avoid subprime cards -- which feature low credit limits, high annual fees and sky-high annual percentage rates -- they are one of the best ways for consumers boost their credit before graduating to a more attractive card, experts say. ... (more)

Card issuers increasingly quick to close dormant, inactive accounts -- The message these days from credit card issuers to customers who aren't using their plastic is a blunt one: Use it or lose it. ... (more)

Got bad credit? Know your bad credit credit card choices -- Those with bad credit have choices -- some dangled by predators looking to make their money problems worse. ... (more)

Negotiate debt payment plans before disaster strikes -- When financial disaster is looming in your household, be proactive. Contact your creditors and explain your situation before times get darkest, and issuers might be willing to work with you. ... (more)

Banks focus mailings on current customers, not new ones -- Fearful of taking on more risk in today's economic environment, banks are choosing to focus on keeping current credit card customers rather than acquiring new ones, according to direct mail data from Chicago-based Mintel Comperemedia. ... (more)

10 creative -- or desperate -- uses for credit cards -- The pieces of plastic in your wallet are good for more than spending. In a pinch, they can scrape ice from a window, pick a guitar and more. ... (more)

Chilean credit cards -- Our ongoing series moves to South America where we visit Chile. There, credit card use continues to grow, but small businesses remain reluctant to embrace plastic. ... (more)

How to talk to creditors when you can't pay credit card bills -- A step-by-step guide to talking with creditors when there isn't enough cash for a complete payment. ... (more)

How debt settlement works, how it affects credit scores, how to choose a firm -- Debt settlement lets you escape part of your debt, but at a price to your credit score. ... (more)

When collectors come after you for ex's unpaid debt -- It's an all-too-common problem: Your ex defaults on credit card debt on a joint account, so collectors are coming after you. What are your options? ... (more)

13 tips to protect yourself on Black Friday, Cyber Monday -- Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren't just big days for shoppers -- ID thieves look forward to them, too. We'll give you tips to make sure that your identity is safe and secure when you shop online or in the stores. ... (more)

If dear old dad steals your identity, turn him in -- When a parent commits identity fraud against a child, emotions can run high. But given the choice between protecting your parent or your good name, choose the latter. ... (more)

$5.3 billion in stolen credit card info up for grabs -- Despite tough economic times on Wall Street, the economy of stolen credit cards and bank account information is booming. According to a report released Nov. 24 by Symantec, stolen credit card info with a potential value of $5.3 billion was available on web forums and chat ... (more)

Step-by-step guide to checking your minor child's credit -- If there are indications your child's identity has been stolen, these steps will help you successfully contact the credit bureaus to check. ... (more)

Protecting your children from identity theft -- Since years can pass before their crime is detected, identity thieves increasingly target children. ... (more)

Canadian credit cards -- Our ongoing series moves to Canada, where the average adult Canadian has two or more credit cards. ... (more)

Gift card malls cut time, gas costs and money for holiday shopping -- The country's continuing economic downturn has created an atmosphere ripe for the one-stop shopping convenience of gift card malls. ... (more)

Help! My APR's been hiked to 27.99 percent -- Credit's tight and your card issuers are reacting by boosting interest rates. Your choices are either to pay off the balance or transfer to another card. ... (more)

Paying less than minimum won't ward off garnishment -- Paying less than the minimum amount won't ward off garnishment. It's best to contact creditors directly to work out a payment plan. ... (more)

Debt collectors to debtors: Let's make a deal -- The tough economy is forcing debt collectors to rethink how they do business. Many will now accept down payments and a little each month from cash-strapped debtors. ... (more)

Pros and cons of various sources of home down payments -- Down payments are once again a must to qualify for a mortgage. There are many sources, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. ... (more)

Credit card cash advances for a home down payment? Not smart -- With no-money-down mortgages gone, lenders say they sometimes see buyers draw credit card cash advances to make their home down payments. ... (more)

Filipino credit cards -- Our ongoing series moves to The Philippines, where debit use nearly quadruples credit card use. ... (more)

Consumer credit report statement sample letters -- Our collection of sample letters -- tailored to satisfy each of the Big Three credit bureaus and fit several situations -- can help you plead your case on your credit report. ... (more)

Higher limit or second card will impact your credit score -- If you think your credit limit's too low, you may consider either asking your current issuer for a higher limit or getting a second card. Either way, don't forget to consider the impact the move will have on your credit. ... (more)

Fed: Delinquency rates edged downward in Q3 -- Credit card delinquencies were down and charge-offs up slightly during the third quarter of 2008, according to the latest banking industry figures released Tuesday by the Federal Reserve Board. ... (more)

How the Amish deal with credit cards -- The Amish are famous for being credit-averse and widely believed not to have credit cards, though the truth is many of them do. ... (more)

Switzerland credit cards -- Our ongoing series moves to Switzerland, the country that is synonymous with banking but less enthusiastic about credit cards. ... (more)

Building a credit history without credit cards -- Living without credit cards can lead to a "thin" credit file where lenders don't have enough evidence that you are a good credit risk. ... (more)

Ruling: Prepaid stored-value cards qualify for $250,000 FDIC deposit insurance -- The FDIC has ruled that money held on prepaid or stored value cards can qualify for deposit insurance if banks set up the accounts. ... (more)

Behind on car lease payments: What to do? -- When facing repossession of your car for falling behind on lease payments, it's best to try to ask for more time rather than steal the car. ... (more)

Debit card rewards programs gaining acceptance -- Major banks are pushing debit card rewards programs at consumers. Which are worth it? We compare. ... (more)

Israel credit cards -- Our series moves to Israel, a Middle Eastern nation whose credit card boom is showing few signs of slowing down. ... (more)

Credit card debt forgiveness? Forget about it, OCC says -- The Office of the Comptroller of Currency issued a response to a proposal to forgive some borrowers' credit card debts. No way, OCC says. The plan was supported by the banking industry and consumer groups. ... (more)

Latest bailout beneficiary: Treasury wants to jump-start stalled credit card securities market -- U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said regulators are considering a plan to boost investor confidence and help credit card asset-backed securities markets. ... (more)

As credit lines dry up, small businesses turn to plastic to keep afloat -- More entrepreneurs are priming their companies' financial pumps with that old consumer temptress -- the credit card. ... (more)

7 tips for handling your first credit card -- When college students and credit cards mix, the results can be troubling. Here are seven helpful hints to keep yourself or your kids from falling quickly into the debt trap. ... (more)

Indonesia credit cards -- Our series moves to Indonesia. This Southeast Asia nation is the largest Muslim nation -- and world's fourth largest overall -- in terms of population. It's still mostly a cash-driven society, but the credit card business is definitely growing steadily. ... (more)

CreditCards.com's credit crunch survival guide -- Credit's getting tougher to come by these days, and this credit crunch impacts virtually every American. So what is a consumer to do? It depends on how you use your card. With that in mind, we've created this guide to help you make your way. ... (more)

Store credit cards still offered, but approvals become stricter -- While it may sound enticing to save 15 percent off your purchase at the checkout counter by applying for that retail credit card, your chances of getting approved for a store credit card are getting slimmer. ... (more)

Disabled vet seeks relief from credit card debt -- A disabled veteran living on a fixed government income is overcome by credit card debt and seeks a way out. ... (more)

Compare credit card rental car insurance coverage: Policies vary widely -- Credit card companies' policies vary sharply, so don't always be quick to turn down rental car agencies' optional coverage. ... (more)

U.S. retail store credit card comparison table -- Here are the top issuers of retail store credit cards, both those offered by the retailers themselves and those offered by banks. ... (more)

September 2008 G.19 report from Federal Reserve on consumer spending -- Credit card use unexpectedly rose in September, as cardholders appeared to be increasingly reliant on plastic in the face of economic threats. ... (more)

U.S. spending and credit card offers decrease in wake of economy -- Consumers aren't much in the mood to spend, and credit card issuers aren't much in the mood to let them, two new reports say. ... (more)

Credit card insurance: don't believe the hype -- Credit card insurance sounds like a great deal: For mere pennies on every $100 of debt, your credit card bills will be paid even if you don't have the money. Sounds like a bargain, right? As with everything in life, however, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. ... (more)

Take control of debt, avoid bankruptcy -- Bankruptcy is not the easy solution to debt reduction -- it's expensive, takes time and paperwork and destroys your credit rating for almost a decade. ... (more)

Turkey credit cards -- Our series moves to Turkey, a growing nation that's struggling with astronomical credit card interest rates. ... (more)

How will the Obama administration affect your pocketbook? -- The 2008 election of Barack Obama as president was heralded by consumer advocates as harbinger for change. ... (more)

Credit card securities facing difficult times -- Securitized credit card debt portfolios of major card issuers are experiencing greater losses as economy slows and job losses increase. ... (more)

Opening Credits: Better credit can improve your job prospects -- Going for a first job? Great. Buff your credit report as well as your resume, because employers these days look at both. ... (more)

Authorized user piggybacking: When should the credit ride end? -- Young people who ride their parents' credit scoring coattails through 'piggybacking' eventually need to go out on their own credit paths -- but carefully, experts say. ... (more)

Argentina credit cards -- Our series moves to Argentina for a look at how credit cards are used in this vibrant South American nation. ... (more)

Sinowal trojan compromises 500,000 bank accounts -- The details of roughly 500,000 online financial accounts were stolen by malicious software deemed the "most pervasive and advanced pieces of crimeware ever created by fraudsters." ... (more)

Fed report: Banks tighten lending standards even more -- Lenders are sharply tightening standards, by cutting credit limits and increasing minimum payments and required scores. ... (more)

Credit card addiction: How to break the spending cycle -- For compulsive buyers, the overwhelming need to buy is an obsession that can ruin finances, marriages, careers and even lives, say compulsive shopping addicts and researchers. ... (more)

Steps to avoid wage garnishment -- Leaving the country to escape credit card debt doesn't guarantee that it will be gone if and when you come back. ... (more)

Consumer, lender groups join to ask Feds for credit card debt forgiveness -- Many consumers can no longer qualify for traditional debt reduction plans, two groups have asked to test a more generous debt-reduction plan. ... (more)

Don't use 401(k) to pay back taxes -- Consider the tax and penalty implications when thinking about tapping 401(k) funds to pay back taxes. ... (more)

Consumers, credit bureaus grapple with 'thin file' credit score problem -- Thin is good -- unless it's your credit file. There it can be a problem, since lenders are wary of consumers who haven't already taken out loans. ... (more)

How HUD evaluates nontraditional credit for FHA mortgages -- Here are some of the guidelines issued in 2008 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for establishing and evaluating nontraditional credit histories. ... (more)

Issuers launch 'environmentally friendly' payment cards -- Responding to what they see as customer demand for environmentally friendly products, American Express and U.S. Bank this week announced the introduction of payment cards that aim to help -- or at least not hurt -- the planet. ... (more)

Surveys say: Americans report cutting back spending, debt -- Recent polls conducted by three different groups echo CreditCards.com "Taking Charge" survey: consumers are adapting to changing economy. ... (more)

Money and credit lessons from the past -- Experts are telling us to pay off debt and stop charging. Here are some money management lessons from the past that can help break the credit card debt cycle. ... (more)

Saudi Arabia credit cards -- Our series moves to Saudi Arabia. This wealthy, oil-rich nation is slowly beginning to embrace the use of credit cards, like much of the world, but some of its traditions and customs are making their transition a bit more challenging than others. ... (more)

Fed cuts rates, but card issuers unlikely to follow suit -- The Federal Reserve lowered interest rates yet again, but most credit cardholders shouldn't expect much relief on their annual percentage rates. ... (more)

As holiday budgets tighten, gift cards remain popular -- Although holiday sales overall are expected to take a hit this year, analysts say gift cards' popularity will continue. ... (more)

Don't lose those expired gift card funds -- For most gift cards issued by major retail chains, expiration dates are, well, expiring. Still, for those consumers whose gift cards do expire, there are ways to recover those funds rather than losing them forever. ... (more)

Study: Who gets gift cards (and which kinds we prefer to get) -- Statistics on gift card preferences broken down by ethnicity and gender. ... (more)

2008 gift card comparison table -- Gift cards will continue to be a popular present this holiday season even in the face of the current economic disorder. Use this chart to find the gift card that's best for you. ... (more)

When family members use 'secret' credit cards -- Just who is responsible for the debt racked up by a spouse's secret credit card cache? 'Maturing Loans' columnist Klayman says it depends on several factors. ... (more)

Top 10 creative ways to wrap gift cards -- The solution for gift-card lovers or skeptics comes in the form of thinking outside the box -- the ubiquitous, gift card-sized gift card box, that is -- and in getting creative. ... (more)

13 ways to get gift cards for less -- Use these techniques to pay less than face value or boost buying power of a gift card. ... (more)

Credit card survey: They're not status symbols, they're just plastic -- Advertisements try to persuade us otherwise, but almost no one puts any weight in the brand or appearance of their credit cards, according to a new national survey. ... (more)

China credit cards -- Our series moves to China, the world's most populous nation. It's a place that drew the eyes of the world during the 2008 Summer Olympics and is experiencing a credit card boom that is almost beyond belief. ... (more)

How wage garnishment works -- and how to avoid it -- Ignoring outstanding credit card debt can take a bite out of your paycheck as judgments for wage garnishments can follow. ... (more)

Using retirement to pay off high debt isn't the answer -- Using retirement funds to pay down high credit card debt isn't the best solution. Creating a budget and living within your means is. ... (more)

Learn the ABCs of credit scores, credit scoring -- Credit scores are intriciate, but increasingly important for consumers to know about. We'll break down the credit scoring basics. ... (more)

PNC to acquire National City banking, credit card interests -- PNC Financial Services Group Inc. will acquire banking and credit card issuer National City in a deal to be finalized by year's end. ... (more)

Learn the three Cs of credit: Credit score, capacity to pay, collateral -- When deciding whether to finance an item over time, consider the three Cs of credit to see if it will hurt your credit score. ... (more)

Opting out of credit card affiliate marketing: 4 tips -- A law that went into effect Oct. 1, 2008, says businesses can't let its affiliates market to you without telling you first, and without giving you a simple way to opt out. ... (more)

ABCs of credit card residual interest -- When you pay the full amount on your credit card statement and don't add any new charges, your balance is zero, right? Not necessarily. ... (more)

Russia credit cards -- Our series moves to Russia, where credit cards are becoming more popular in a traditionally cash-driven society. ... (more)

Sold the house, have some cash, now what? -- Seniors who are downsizing need to pay off debt, create fixed-income investment income and have an emergency fund to cover financial surprises. ... (more)

Colombia credit cards -- Our ongoing series heads to Colombia for a look at credit card use and credit card statistics in this sometimes-troubled nation. ... (more)

Credit card, mortgage losses bleed corporate profits -- Credit card and mortgage losses continue to cramp both large and small issuers' earnings, according to recent third quarter reports. ... (more)

How to buy a car with a credit card -- and when not to -- Not all car dealers let you, but for those with rewards cards and faith in their ability to repay, buying a car with a credit card can make sense. ... (more)

Wage garnishment rules of engagement -- A closer look at how wage garnishment works when you lose your job, get a severance package and get unemployment. ... (more)

New America Foundation paper seeks to avert next financial crisis -- A new paper offers ideas for regulating credit card industry practices. ... (more)

Moody's: Credit card charge-offs rise 48 percent in August '08 -- Moody's Investors Service reports that credit card charge-offs rose 48 percent in August 2008, and it expects charge-offs to continue to rise throughout 2009. ... (more)

Debt collection goes virtual -- Companies are trying new ways to get delinquent borrowers to pay up. One firm recently launched a 'Virtual Collection Agent' that's being rolled out by several major issuers. ... (more)

Nigeria credit cards -- Our ongoing series heads to Nigeria for a look at credit card use and credit card statistics in this African nation. ... (more)

Pay down debt or invest? Which is more important? -- With the financial markets so uncertain, is it wiser to pay down debt or keep investing for the future? ... (more)

Senate committee to address credit card, bankruptcy measures -- The U.S. Senate Banking Committee may review key credit card industry and bankruptcy reform measures during November 2008 hearings. ... (more)

South Korea credit cards -- Our ongoing series heads to Asia for a look at credit card use and credit card statistics in South Korea. ... (more)

Don't hide credit woes from children, family -- How much should you tell your children about your financial difficulties? Experts say parents should let children know when the family is facing hard times, and maybe get the kids to help out. ... (more)

5 things to know before you file for bankruptcy -- Bankruptcy experts, attorneys and consumer credit counselors offer advice to those thinking of filing for bankruptcy. ... (more)

Credit recovery advice: Start slow, do it right this time -- When pulling out of bankruptcy, it's important to understand how you got there in the first place in order to avoid getting there again. ... (more)

Three years later, bankruptcy law fails to quash filings -- On the third anniversary of bankruptcy reform law, critics wonder how much bankruptcy filings will grow in economic downturn. ... (more)

Bankruptcy filings, state by state, 2005-2009 -- Interactive map shows rate of each state's bankruptcy filings, and how the pace fell off a cliff in 2005, then rebounded. ... (more)

Government workers sometimes abuse credit cards, p-cards -- A host of examples of credit card abuse by public employees shows that proper policies and regular scrutiny are needed to avoid draining public coffers and ruining public confidence. ... (more)

When debt collectors don't play by the rules -- When debt collectors don't reveal how much you owe, you have rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act to find out how much you owe, how much you paid and what your interest rate is. ... (more)

Study: Delinquencies ramping up for those who took out mortgages recently -- It used to be that homeownership was a mark of stability, a factor that lenders took into account by opening their vaults a little wider to those who had mortgages. No more. ... (more)

France credit cards -- Our ongoing series heads to France for a look at credit card use and credit card statistics in the home of great wines and cheeses and the Eiffel Tower ... (more)

6 credit card terms you can negotiate and change -- If you have a high credit score, you may have more leverage than you think in negotiating over these six terms. ... (more)

4 tips for negotiating for better credit card terms -- Know your own value, do your research and you'll come out ahead in negotiations with your credit card issuer. ... (more)

Advocates for the blind take aim at touch-screen terminals -- For the blind, it's tough enough already to tell a $5 bill from a $20. New payment technologies such as touch-screen point of sale terminals now pose new challenges. ... (more)

Know the rules before you tap your 401(k) -- Transferring funds from a taxable retirement account into a "safer" investment vehicle can cost you if not done the right way. ... (more)

In an emergency move, the Fed cut a key interest rate by half a point -- Not waiting until its regularly scheduled meeting, the Fed cut a key U.S. interest rate by half a point in order to try to stave off the worst financial crisis since the Depression. ... (more)

August 2008 G.19 report from Federal Reserve on consumer spending -- The Federal Reserve's G.19 report, a key measure of consumer spending, showed consumers slowed their spending for the first time in a decade. ... (more)

Brazil credit cards -- Our ongoing series heads to Brazil for a look at credit card use and credit card statistics in the soccer-mad home of Carnaval and supermodels. ... (more)

Changing your name on credit cards after marriage -- Marriage brings plenty of change, and for many women (and a few men), the first one is your name. Tips for how to change your name on your credit cards. ... (more)

Taking on new debt in an economic downturn -- During economic instability, it is wise to reconsider the need to take on additional credit lines. ... (more)

5 secrets to smart debit card use -- Debit cards are more common now than ever. We'll give you some helpful tips to make sure you're using them in the smartest way possible. ... (more)

Auditor will review 650,000 Cap One credit card accounts to ensure money is returned -- Capital One must repay $340,000 to credit card users because the company collected old debts that had been discharged in Chapter 13 bankruptcy. ... (more)

Wachovia-Wells Fargo merger announced -- Four days after Citi announced a government-backed purchase of some Wachovia Bank assets, Wells Fargo Bank has announced a deal to merge with Wachovia. ... (more)

In times of financial uncertainty, follow timeless advice -- In this economy, it's important to keep a clear head and not heed the financial advice of all the doomsayers. ... (more)

Why students pay for college with credit cards, tips to avoid -- When money gets too tight for tuition, a growing group of students and their families break out the plastic. ... (more)

Mexico credit cards -- Our ongoing series heads to Mexico for a look at credit card use and credit card statistics in the United States' neighbor to the south. ... (more)

Plastic and terror: Study describes how terrorists use credit cards -- Terrorists are increasingly turning to credit cards, according to a study written by an expert on terror financing. ... (more)

What credit card users need to know to survive the 2008 credit crunch -- Experts advise credit card users to pay down credit card debt and wean themselves off of credit card spending. ... (more)

Balance transfer or loan? Do the math before you decide -- A reader asks which is a better way to pay off a $5,000 balance: a low-interest balance transfer card or a loan. ... (more)

US credit cards outdated, less useful abroad, as 'chip and PIN' cards catch on -- Sure, you can swipe to heart's content here in the United States. But bring that mag-stripe card to Europe and chances are it won't work as the credit card technology there is years ahead. ... (more)

Citi acquires Wachovia -- FDIC and the Federal Reserve back Citi's purchase of Wachovia Bank's retail banking assets. ... (more)

As private college loans dry up, students may turn to credit cards -- Students facing a 'perfect storm' of tight job market and fewer available loans may have to turn to credit cards to fund their studies. ... (more)

How balance transfers impact your credit score -- The ratio between how much credit you have available and how much credit is used is calculated as part of the amounts-owed category when calculating your credit score. ... (more)

WaMu is largest bank failure ever -- JP Morgan Chase says people with WaMu credit cards and ATM cards should continue to use them and pay their bills on time to the same payment addresses. ... (more)

Treasury, Ad Council team up to promote credit smarts among young consumers -- New educational campaign targets younger consumers with the message: Take control of your credit and personal finances. ... (more)

Review the new interactive credit card game -- CreditCards.com asked young consumers to review a new interactive game designed to educate 18- to 24-year-olds about credit and personal finance. ... (more)

Why getting a small business card is smart -- When starting up a small business, it's important to keep business and personal expenses separate for tax purposes. ... (more)

6 tips to avoid penalty rates -- Credit card penalty rates can double or triple your interest rates -- and substantially boost your monthly payments -- overnight. Here's how to avoid them. ... (more)

Credit card penalty rates: Mistakes that trigger default APRs -- Credit cardholders should recognize that they may be just one late payment away from credit card penalty (default) rates, and sharply higher bills. ... (more)

False debt reduction claims unfair, deceptive -- The Federal Trade Commission has reached a settlement with four companies for allegedly claiming they could reduce consumers' debts by up to 60 percent. ... (more)

Hard times require new investing, credit card habits -- In these uncharted economic waters, it is important to keep the level of credit card debt down and refrain from making large, unnecessary purchases on credit. ... (more)

12 tips for automatic bill paying -- If managed well, using your credit card or your online bank account to pay your bills online is a great idea that could manifest in anything from free plane tickets to actual cash back rewards. ... (more)

Deadline passed for free TransUnion credit monitoring -- Sept. 24 was the final day for members of the public to sign up for free credit monitoring. ... (more)

Pro-consumer credit card bill passes in U.S. House vote -- The U.S. House of Representatives voted 312-112 to pass a controversial bill that would give credit card users more consumer protections. ... (more)

India credit cards -- Our ongoing series heads to India for a look at credit card use and credit card statistics in one of the world's fastest growing countries. ... (more)

Key vote on Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights comes today -- The full U.S. House of Representatives is expected to consider the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights bill today. ... (more)

The pros and cons of charging a luxury car on your credit card -- While charging a luxury car on your credit card may yield a lower interest rate, the risks are higher than a traditional fixed rate loan. ... (more)

You think your credit smells? Cards with aromas issued -- Smell experts -- yes, there are some -- say the aromatic cards could excite the emotions and cause us to spend more. ... (more)

Ignoring outstanding debt won't make it go away -- Unpaid credit card debt won't magically erase itself from your credit report after a certain time -- it will impact your life for decades. ... (more)

Despite early controversy, payment cards for immigrants continue to roll out -- Issuing credit cards that didn't require Social Security numbers sparked controversy in 2007. In 2008, banks go after immigrants' business with reloadable prepaid cards instead. ... (more)

Job losses pushing up credit card debt delinquencies -- The American Bankers Association's Economic Advisory Committee predicts a mild recession during the closing months of 2008; job losses are fueling credit card debt delinquencies. ... (more)

Compare today's 0 percent balance transfer offers -- Comparison chart shows that 0 percent introductory periods are shorter, fees tougher to dodge. ... (more)

Are 0 percent APR balance transfer credit cards doomed? -- Consumers' mailboxes used to be flooded with offers for balance transfer credit cards with lengthy introductory interest periods of 0 percent. Not anymore. ... (more)

Australian credit cards and statistics -- Our ongoing series heads Down Under for a look at credit card use and credit card statistics in Australia. ... (more)

Make your pension generate income beyond your death -- When you die, your pension dies with you or you can purchase life insurance with a portion of your pension, leaving behind an income for your spouse and inheritance for your heirs. ... (more)

Federal Reserve leaves key interest rate unchanged -- Despite recent stock market weakness and trouble in the financial sector, the Federal Reserve left a key short-term interest rate unchanged Tuesday. ... (more)

10 questions to ask about layaway plans -- Looking to layaway? Here are 10 questions to ask that will help you find a good layaway plan -- and avoid those that should be thrown away. ... (more)

Layaway enjoying small revival for the holidays -- Layaway, largely erased by the rise of credit cards, is making a minor comeback in time for the holidays. ... (more)

Credit card debt up, delinquencies down in Q2, report says -- Americans had more average credit card debt and delinquencies were down slightly during the second quarter of 2008. ... (more)

Electronic voting by ATM idea hasn't caught hold -- After 2000s contentious election fades into the chaddy past, so does the call to use the banking system's ATM networks as voting machines. ... (more)

Laid off, but stuck with corporate card bill -- A recently laid-off employee, who turned in his corporate credit card, is receiving bills for charges on his old card and wonders who is liable for the debt. ... (more)

Prepaid cards need safeguards against bank failures, groups say -- A coalition of consumer groups is asking for emergency provisions to protect funds held on prepaid debit cards. ... (more)

Consumer groups ask FTC for tougher gift card protections -- Consumer groups filed a petition Thursday asking federal regulators to do more to keep consumers from losing money on gift cards from bankrupt retailers. ... (more)

Should you sign your credit card or write 'See ID' on it -- Writing 'See ID' in lieu of a signature is supposed to make a credit card invalid, but the reality is different. ... (more)

How credit card balance transfers affect your credit score -- When a consumer is faced with a high-rate card, switching to a lower-rate card is smart, if you do it right. ... (more)

Court orders halt to Texas couple's credit repair operations -- The Federal Trade Commission has filed a complaint against a Texas couple for falsely claiming to repair credit records. ... (more)

Credit cards around the world: South Africa -- The first in a series showcasing information about credit card use in nations throughout the world. We begin with South Africa. ... (more)

Witnesses call for federal legislation at Senate hearing on prepaid calling cards -- Got a minute? Too many prepaid cards don't deliver the ones they promise, witnesses told a U.S. Senate committee. ... (more)

FTC wins suit against debt management company -- AmeriDebt Inc. and DebtWorks Inc. allegedly scammed consumers by claiming to be nonprofit organizations and keeping money that should have gone to pay off consumers' debts. ... (more)

What is debt reaffirmation? -- Reaffirming a loan can be necessary, but too many consumers say debt collectors tricked them into doing it accidentally. ... (more)

6 bad reasons debtors reaffirm debt -- Emotions, lack of knowledge and even deception can play a role in a debtor's decision to reaffirm a debt. ... (more)

9 questions to ask before you reaffirm an old debt -- You need facts to decide whether to reaffirm a debt. These questions will ferret them out. ... (more)

Life insurance is for the living, not for credit card debt -- An adult child wants to use her elderly parents' life insurance proceeds to pay off her credit card debt -- before they die. ... (more)

5 steps to avoid identity theft at the register -- Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you aren't victimized by credit card fraud when using your card in person at a retailer. ... (more)

Fed's G.19 report shows card debt rose slightly in July -- Credit card balances increased in July, according to new figures released by federal banking regulators. That slight uptick is due to the fact that economic woes are making it more difficult for cardholders to pay off existing balances, according to analysts. ... (more)

Can you really afford that car loan? -- Buying a car with a high interest rate loan can get burdensome down the road -- especially if hard times hit and you're stuck with a loan worth more than the car. ... (more)

Severe debt can cause depression and even suicide -- Getting depressed over an increased debt load is normal, experts say, but some people just can't seem to dig their way out and become so despondent they contemplate or attempt suicide. ... (more)

Identity theft sample letters -- If you've been a victim, this step-by-step guide and set of printable letters can help retrieve your name. ... (more)

Can credit repair companies ruin your credit score? -- With $23,000 in credit card debt, can a credit repair company erase or reduce that debt legally without hurting your credit score? ... (more)

Credit card scam: credit card shaving -- Forget high-tech hacking. This credit card scam relies more on X-Acto knives and glue sticks than wi-fi and laptops but can help criminals steal your money just the same. ... (more)

American Express tops customer satisfaction chart in J.D. Power survey -- J.D. Power 2008 customer satisfaction survey ranks the top 18 credit card issuers. ... (more)

Establish retirement priorities when paying off debt -- Using retirement funds to pay off high-interest credit card debt? Not such a good idea, says 'Maturing Loans' columnist Alan Klayman. ... (more)

Pros and cons of using social lending for credit card debt consolidation -- Social lending can be a good choice for consolidating and retiring credit card debt, but has drawbacks ... (more)

How to use social lending to consolidate credit card debt -- Shedding credit card debt is the most common cause that people seek loans on 'social lending' sites such as Prosper. ... (more)

Patience is key to credit score repair -- It takes time and patience for your credit score to rise after you pay off neglected credit card debt, says CreditCards.com columnist Todd Ossenfort. ... (more)

Pregnancy or paying down debt? How to fit a baby into your financial future -- Your heart -- or your ticking biological clock -- says it's time to have a baby. Your credit card bill, however, may be saying something else. ... (more)

It's fraud when an ex opens credit cards in your name -- It's theft when an ex uses your Social Security number to open credit cards in your name, and should be reported to the police and credit bureaus. ... (more)

More gas stations offer discounts to customers who pay with cash -- Many gas station owners, struggling under the weight of rising credit card fees, are offering discounts to customers who pay by cash. ... (more)

Poll: Snooping and arguments go along with joint credit -- Sharing a credit card account? Expect arguments, snooping and maybe canceling a card, says a new CreditCards.com poll. ... (more)

Graphs: Snooping and arguments go along with joint credit -- Graphs of CreditCards.com 'Taking Charge' survey on sharing credit card accounts. ... (more)

When is the right time to retire a student credit card? -- If your student credit card has a low credit limit and high interest rate, you should look to graduate to a better card. ... (more)

Inheritance strategy: Pay off credit cards, evaluate the mortgage -- When you inherit money, it's important to pay off debts, starting with those carrying the highest interest rate. ... (more)

Back-to-school credit card advice for students, parents -- Tips for financing the school year, dealing with credit wisely and learning how to finance post-graduation life. ... (more)

Protect your computer -- and your identity -- on campus -- Students heading to college need to take precautions to protect their computers and the sensitive information they contain. ... (more)

10 ways students can protect against identity theft -- Campuses are often a young adult's first step away from the safety of home, so they need to raise their technological guard. ... (more)

Opting out of a credit card rate increase? Keep records! -- When opting out of a credit card interest rate increase, it is critical to keep copies of your letter and mail receipt in case the issuer decides to up the rate again. ... (more)

Unpaid car lease fees can ruin your credit -- When the lease is over, but over-mileage fees remain, don't leave them unpaid or your credit will take a big hit. ... (more)

Good dog, bad bill: Veterinary care financing options -- Pet owners have more veterinary treatment choices than ever, which is good for pets, but can strain on finances. We review the payment options. ... (more)

How Americans pay for college: A lot of borrowing -- Credit cards are rarely used to pay college costs, a new survey says, and when they are, it's mostly out of desperation. ... (more)

When a spouse dies, how do you pay off their debt? -- When a spouse dies, how debt becomes your responsibility ... (more)

CreditCards.com 'Taking Charge' survey, part 2: People adapt card use to changed economy -- A new CreditCards.com survey suggests the financially fit are surviving the economic downturn, but others are not. ... (more)

CreditCards.com 'Taking Charge' graphs, part 2: People adapt card use to changed economy -- These graphs show how Americans are adapting to a changed economic landscape. ... (more)

Cancel that credit card, take the credit score hit -- Yes, canceling a credit card can hurt a credit score, but it's worth it if you're struggling, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

Tinsel meets plastic: Top 10 Hollywood credit card movies -- Plastic plays a key role in these films -- and teaches money lessons, too. ... (more)

Before you refinance, clean up your credit score -- When refinancing your home, it's best to check your credit score for errors or delinquencies so that any dings can be repaired before you apply for the loan. ... (more)

When a medical crisis empties retirement funds -- What steps to take to restore retirement funds after a medical crisis. ... (more)

Taking Charge poll: Nearly 3 of 4 Americans favor government regulation of credit cards -- The second annual CreditCards.com 'Taking Charge' survey says Americans mistrust but need credit cards. ... (more)

Fees, the economy and gas prices are threatening frequent flier programs -- Fees, the economy and gas prices are threatening frequent flier credit card programs. ... (more)

The evolution of frequent flier credit cards and programs -- Airline frequent flier programs as we know them today began in early 1981, when the only way to earn miles was through flying. In the late 1980s, the first airline credit card made its debut. ... (more)

Airline frequent flier fees and rules -- The airline industry is changing and frequent flier award tickets are no longer free. Here is a chart of fees you can expect to pay if you plan to cash in your air miles. ... (more)

Hiding credit card debt -- The exact number of men and women who hide credit card debt from a partner isn't known, but anecdotal evidence and interviews with financial planners suggest that the problem is widespread. ... (more)

Tips for uncovering, dealing with hidden credit card debt -- If you find a loved one has hidden debt, you could scream, fight or even ask for a divorce. Experts, however, say there are better choices. ... (more)

Add positive information to your credit report to balance the negative -- To help boost your credit score after paying off delinquent accounts, you need to add some positive information to your credit report that will help balance the negative. ... (more)

Could you live without credit cards? Here's how some people do -- Forgoing credit cards and leading a cash-only lifestyle today seems as foreign as mailing a handwritten letter: We know some people do it, but it's hard to understand why. ... (more)

Will cashing in retirement funds help my credit score? -- To Her Credit columnist Sally Herigstad advises a reader not to cash in all of her retirement in order to pay down credit card debt in an attempt to raise her credit score. ... (more)

Fed's G.19 report shows card debt rose sharply in June -- Credit card activity continued to surge in June, according to new figures released by federal banking regulators. Analysts say consumers are relying on credit cards for increasingly costly expenses as other lines of credit remain unavailable. ... (more)

Surprise! Unexpected items can appear on a credit report -- Hoping to keep your credit score up? You’ll not only want to stay current with your credit card bills, mortgage payments and student loans -- you may also need to pay any outstanding library fines. ... (more)

Buying investments with credit cards? It's unavailable, and unwise -- Laws and regulations exist that determine and limit how much you can use borrowed funds (including credit cards) to purchase investments. ... (more)

Even credit card purchases at home may now trigger 'international' fee -- Credit card purchases may be 'international,' even if you aren't. ... (more)

Fed leaves rates unchanged; card rates to stay put -- The Federal Reserve, as expected, left a key interest rate unchanged. ... (more)

Do airline rewards programs trump cash rewards programs? -- With credit card rewards programs so prevalent, The Credit Guy Todd Ossenfort weighs the benefits of frequent flier programs versus cash back rewards programs. ... (more)

Many airlines now accepting plastic for in-flight purchases -- Weary travelers, take heart. On most airlines, you are now free to pay for your in-flight Heineken or Harry Potter movie with your credit card. ... (more)

Steps to take when collectors violate your rights -- As a credit card account authorized user, you have no financial responsibility for this account, and the bank knows it. That doesn’t stop unscrupulous companies from trying to collect, however. ... (more)

6 tips for financing a funeral -- Planning a funeral on the heels of a loved one's passing -- especially when the loss is unexpected -- is one of the toughest things you can go through. Still, despite the time crunch and emotional upset, there are steps you can take to control your costs. ... (more)

Financing a funeral: All options have pluses, minuses -- What is the best way to pay for funeral expenses? All the methods of paying have pluses and minuses. ... (more)

Key Congressional committee passes Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights -- The House Financial Services Committee voted along party lines to pass a bill to rein in the credit card industry. ... (more)

Authorized user 'piggybacking' for better credit score given reprieve by FICO -- A controversial score-raising technique that had been slated for phase-out gets new life. ... (more)

What to do when a family member forges credit card applications in your name -- When a family member forges your name on credit card applications, you have two choices: Pay the bill or prosecute, says Maturing Loans columnist Alan Klayman. ... (more)

Shariah-compliant credit cards become more common -- As credit card companies reach out to specific groups by offering credit cards with ties to everything from charities to pro sports teams, they are also actively pursuing a group of people who have traditionally shunned credit cards because Islam forbids paying interest. ... (more)

Steps to take to repair your credit -- When repairing your credit score, it's best to just start making payments on bad debt rather than trying to negotiate the balance down, says Todd Ossenfort, 'The Credit Guy.' ... (more)

Lending crisis leads to cutting credit limits, hurting consumers' scores -- Cowed by the lending crisis, card issuers are quick to cut credit limits, an act that lowers the ratio of used to available credit, which hurts credit scores. ... (more)

What to do if a credit card issuer cuts your credit limit -- You have alternatives to regain your limit -- and a higher credit score. ... (more)

Understanding the Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act -- a law that eases debt burden for active military -- The Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act -- born in 1940 as the Sailors' and Soldiers' Civil Relief Act -- aims to ease the debt burden for those called to actively serve. ... (more)

Stepping up for America's military men and women -- While federal law guarantees some debt relief for soldiers, many top credit card issuers ease the burden of debt for active military by offering protections significantly beyond what the law requires. ... (more)

How one spouse's good credit score can boost a poor credit score -- There are ways your good credit score can boost your spouse's poor credit score, but make sure you both set up solid financial goals first and don't stray from the plan, says To Her Credit columnist Sally Herigstad. ... (more)

What consumers can do when 'minimum purchase' and other credit card rules are bent -- Ever wonder whether it's really OK for merchants to post signs saying 'Minimum credit card purchase $5'? Find out what the rules are and what consumers can do when the rules are violated. ... (more)

Low interest rate and rewards credit cards can put cash back in your pocket -- With food and gas prices escalating, Americans need to budget more carefully than ever before, including resisting the short-term solution of charging up debt on credit cards. ... (more)

What happens to credit card debt if a bank fails? -- If a card-issuing bank were to fail, consumers would still owe the money and have to pay it -- but to someone else. Terms might change, too. ... (more)

Unemployment benefits switch from paper to plastic -- With jobless rates rising, more and more Americans are entering their state's unemployment insurance maze. Just don't expect to receive the traditional paper check if you find yourself needing assistance, as nearly half of the country has started delivering these benefits through debit cards. ... (more)

When is a credit card's 'fixed rate' not really fixed? -- If you sign a credit card agreement with an issuer that claims to practice 'universal default,' your 'fixed' interest rate can be raised at any time. ... (more)

When is a debt too old for collection? -- Saddled with an 8-year-old credit card debt, a senior citizen living on just Social Security wants to know what her rights are. ... (more)

Proposed credit card rule changes draw massive public comment -- Consumers have turned out in force to support proposed Fed rules reining in the practices of credit card issuers. ... (more)

Does it pay to reduce card debt before death? -- A reader faces terminal illness and significant credit card debt. She wonders if the debt, since it is unsecured, will have to be paid out of her estate when she dies. ... (more)

13 greatest credit card songs: How cards, debt are seen in popular music, songs -- Songs about money are a dime a dozen. But where's the love for credit cards? We found it. Here are 13 songs by everyone from George Strait to Whitney Houston. ... (more)

Foreign transaction fees and rules for the top credit card issuers -- Here are the foreign transaction fees, also known as currency conversion fees, charged by top American credit card issuers to consumers who travel abroad. ... (more)

How to dispute a credit card bill with a merchant -- Dissatisfied with a merchant's product or service? If you do it right, your credit card issuer may step in to help. ... (more)

After creating a debt management plan, stick to it -- CreditCards.com columnist Todd Ossenfort strongly recommends that once you're in credit counseling, stick to the goals set up in a debt management plan and avoid temptation to get into more debt. ... (more)

Is selling your house to pay down debt a good idea? -- A reader who has $75,000 in credit card debt wants to know if selling her house to pay off debt is a good idea. ... (more)

12 debt questions to ask before getting married -- Before you say, "I do," you should get to know each other's financial health, and nothing says it better than your credit report. Here are 12 questions to ask your betrothed. ... (more)

Who's responsible for a deceased spouse's card debt? -- When a spouse dies, credit card debt may or may not be passed along to a widow. ... (more)

Fed's G.19 report shows credit card use rebounded in May -- The Fed's latest G19 data shows revolving credit (of which about 98 percent is comprised of credit card debt) edged upward/downward in May 2008. ... (more)

Poll: Credit card debt the new taboo conversation topic -- Religion, politics and sex, move over. Discussing credit card debt is the new taboo. People would rather talk about anything -- their weight, their health problems, the death of a loved one, even details of their love lives --- rather than talk about their credit card debt. ... (more)

Auto manufacturer reward credit cards: a car deal on wheels? -- Many of today’s credit cardholders aren't interested in just any old rewards -- they're holding out for perks that come in the form of brand-new, all-leather-interior, fully loaded, shiny status symbols to adorn their driveways. ... (more)

Canceling a credit card vs. keeping a bad one: Compare costs -- Weighing the true cost of canceling a credit card with an annual fee: How much will it hurt your credit score? ... (more)

To detect fraud, credit card issuers monitor all your purchases -- Credit card company fraud departments monitor their cardholders purchases to detect unusual patterns or purchases. ... (more)

Five-year-old credit card debt has debt collectors calling -- With a job loss and 5-year-old credit card debt and only Social Security income, a reader needs a lot of help -- starting with knowing her rights, says Maturing Loans columnist Alan Klayman. ... (more)

Rent a car with debit card or cash? Expect to try harder -- A CreditCards.com survey of 45 car agencies across the U.S. finds you can rent a car without a credit card, but you have to jump through more hoops. ... (more)

Credit checks for job applicants become more common -- Increasingly, job hunters are required to allow credit checks during the application process. It's legal, but the applicant has rights, too. ... (more)

VantageScore credit score product combines three scores into one -- The VantageScore, introduced in 2006, credit scoring product combines Equifax, Experian and TransUnion credit scores into one score. ... (more)

Credit card secrets: How bagging and licking make cards work better -- It's gross, but licking a credit card's magnetic stripe can make it scan in a reader. We explain why. ... (more)

Improve your credit score by keeping credit card balances low -- Experts now say you should be using no more about 50 percent of your available credit -- not the 67 percent you are using now. ... (more)

Credit repair good guys: How to find legitimate reselling and rescoring firms -- Credit repair firms say they can boost your credit score, but it's credit resellers who do the job for less hype, less money and less mystery. ... (more)

More colleges offer courses in money, debt management -- Basic personal finance is not typically on the short list of required college courses, but universities are realizing that the more they teach students how to manage their money now, the more prepared they are to ward off debt in the future. ... (more)

Balancing rising expenses against a fixed income -- When investing in retirement property, make sure you calculate how rising future real estate taxes will impact the expense of ownership over time. ... (more)

Adulthood, legal rights and credit cards: Turning 18 with a credit card -- At 18, young adults can apply for credit. Can you -- or your teenage son or daughter -- handle it? ... (more)

When a family member steals your identity -- Here are the steps you can take when a family member steals your identity to open credit accounts in your name. ... (more)

Retired, with $70,000 in credit card debt -- Tips on how to reduce astronomical credit card debt on a fixed income. ... (more)

Evils of 'fee harvesting' credit cards known for a long time -- Consumers should beware of cards that charge upfront fees and carry low limits. ... (more)

Tips for choosing fee harvesting credit cards -- People with bad credit may have few options for getting a credit card. Experts advise doing a lot of research before signing up for fee harvesting credit cards. ... (more)

A late start retirement plan: Use tax advantaged savings options -- Save up for retirement at any age with tax advantaged retirement plans. ... (more)

5 sneaky credit card tricks -- and how to beat the bank -- Just like Three-Card Monte, these tricks can clean out your wallet faster than you can pick a card, any card. ... (more)

Retail rewards cards: Stores give points and more -- Department store credit cards used to offer one-time discounts. Now they offer a variety of ongoing rewards in an effort to build loyalty. ... (more)

Saving for emergencies, retirement come before paying off credit card debt -- Creating an emergency fund and contributing to your retirement fund should always come before paying off credit card debt. ... (more)

Charging up a storm before filing bankruptcy is considered fraud -- Thinking of loading up your credit cards before you file bankruptcy is considered fraud. ... (more)

Lunch money goes cashless in many school cafeterias -- Getting your lunch money stolen is so 20th century. Today's school students pay for school lunches with ID cards and fingerprint scanners. ... (more)

Relatives must be careful when asked to co-sign on a credit card. -- Relatives must be careful when asked to co-sign on a credit card. ... (more)

Tips for comparing gas cards and escaping high fuel prices -- We'll help you cope with the rising cost of gas, beware pump-side scams and learn smart ways to finance fuel costs. ... (more)

Consumers could see refunds from $200 million for 'fee harvesting' credit cards -- Federal regulators are seeking $200 million in restitution for consumers from a major credit card marketer and two banks for how they marketed and issued subprime credit cards. ... (more)

Overall consumer credit (revolving and nonrevolving) rose 4.2 percent in April 2008 to $2.56 trillion -- The Fed's latest G19 data shows revolving credit (of which about 98 percent is comprised of credit card debt) edged upward at an annual rate of about half a percentage point percent in April 2008. ... (more)

Credit card issuance a matter of black and white? -- Do all Americans really have equal access to credit cards or are some groups more likely to be granted credit than others? A study found where you live may play a key role in whether you're granted a credit card. ... (more)

When your parents' debt problems need attention -- Seniors can easily become overwhelmed with credit card debt. Here's some advice how to help them. ... (more)

Using a debit card for travel: problems and risks -- Debit cards are popular, but are not always the best choice for travel. ... (more)

Credit card rewards programs: Read the fine print to avoid pitfalls -- Cardholders must read the fine print to understand clearly how their credit cards programs work. ... (more)

Setting up investments to create guaranteed income in retirement -- Maturing Loans columnist Alan Klayman weighs the benefits of creating an income strategy in retirement against the standard investment strategy. ... (more)

Contactless credit cards' future in doubt -- Contactless credit card technology is supposed to be the wave of the future. So far, according to experts, few seem to care. ... (more)

Helping your college-age child establish credit -- Students with their first credit card can be dangerous, so parents of should help their college-age children create a spending plan, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

9 tips for dividing credit card debt -- Got credit card debt? Going through a divorce? These steps will help you cope -- and not get stuck with your ex's tab. ... (more)

3 things you should never check daily: your weight, your stocks and your credit score. -- There are three things you should never check daily: your weight, your stocks and your credit score. ... (more)

Poll: Gas prices causing people to cut visits to family, friends -- More than half of Americans say they've cut down on visiting family and friends due to gas prices, a CreditCards.com poll reveals. ... (more)

Do-it-yourself credit cards studied -- Based on her research of low-income women, a Harvard lecturer says they would be better served by a 'self-directed credit card,' allowing them to set their own credit card limits and restrictions. ... (more)

One-stock investments are risky ventures in retirement -- Maturing Loans columnist Alan Klayman advises against the one-stock retirement bet and says the best way to generate income is through a well-planned income strategy. ... (more)

The real dirt on celebrity credit cards -- We'll buy their branded clothes, their branded perfumes, their branded sheets -- but we won't use their branded cards to buy them. Why celebrity cards haven't found a place in our wallets. ... (more)

Are you a credit card rookie? Here's how credit cards work -- There are all kinds of credit cards with all kinds of different rules. Make sure you pick the right card for you. ... (more)

Credit card travel tips -- From airline frequent flier miles to foreign currency conversion, know the rules of the road before you hit the road this summer. ... (more)

GAO report: Federal government pays massive credit card fees, too -- Just like gas station owners and other merchants, the federal government pays interchange fees for credit card and debit card transactions -- and its bill is huge, says a new GAO report. ... (more)

Credit cards and terrorism: How terrorists use cards -- Interviews with terrorism experts and readings of case studies from around the world reveal that the credit cards have become a favored tool of terrorists. ... (more)

Are you smarter about credit cards than a fifth grader? -- You may be surprised at how closely a child's view of the credit card world comes to the actual way plastic works -- as opposed to the carefree convenience touted in most credit card television commercials. ... (more)

In retirement, the thinking about retirement and income changes -- In retirement, the thinking about retirement and income changes ... (more)

Cashless campus 2.0: Student IDs evolve into multiuse payment systems -- Today's student ID cards open doors to dorms and labs, earn discounts with local merchants, sub-in for loose change at vending and copy machines, and even help with the laundry. ... (more)

3 must-ask questions for multiuse campus / student ID cards -- Campus cards, like anything involving money, are not free from potential pitfalls, and the cards' fees and policies can be as different as Buckeyes and Wolverines. ... (more)

Authorized user or joint account holder? -- There are major differences between an authorized user and joint account holder for credit card accounts. One is liable for unpaid balances and the other is not. ... (more)

Free credit report and notice of potential interest rate hikes could be required in proposed new rules -- New proposed rules would require credit card issuers to send notices and provide free credit reports when consumers are subject to interest rate hikes based on credit reports. ... (more)

Top 10 ways students ruin their credit -- College can be a great time to enjoy independence and build a foundation for the future, or an opportunity to begin their careers with unnecessary credit card debt. ... (more)

8 tips for squeezing the last dollar out of a budget -- It's tough to make ends meet on a fixed income. To do it, you have to squeeze the spending hard as you can, says 'Maturing Loans' columnist Alan Klayman. ... (more)

Business credit cards: 5 ways to avoid being stung -- Compared to business loans, credit cards are easy to get. But that makes them easy to abuse, too. Here are 5 ways to avoid getting stung. ... (more)

Small business is big business for credit card companies, lending institutions -- Small business is big business for credit card companies, lending institutions. ... (more)

Vacation, travel plans: Charge to credit card, easier to recoup losses -- Recouping your money if your trip is canceled is much easier with credit cards than if you paid with cash or by check. ... (more)

Questions to ask to check out your credit counselor's credentials -- Before you hire a credit counselor, make sure you check out their credentials. ... (more)

Fed backs rules to curb deceptive credit card practices -- Federal banking regulators are taking unusual steps to protect consumers from unfair and deceptive trade practices in the credit card industry. ... (more)

Two years behind on credit card payments -- How do you even begin to pay back credit card debt that is two years old? ... (more)

Extreme credit card limits -- One of the cardinal rules of responsible credit card usage is to apply for only as much credit as you need. A sizable group of consumers take a different approach: Apply for as much credit as you can get. ... (more)

Fed cuts rates; will your credit card bill fall, too? -- The Federal Reserve's rate-setting committee, in an effort to rejuvenate the economy, trimmed a key short-term interest rate Wednesday, this time by one-quarter of a percentage point. ... (more)

Entering retirement with credit card debt -- Carrying credit card debt into retirement requires a plan. ... (more)

Credit card securities may be in for rough times ahead -- Securitized credit card receivables -- the fuel that drives credit card issuance for major banks -- may falter as credit card defaults rise. ... (more)

How credit card securities work -- Major credit card banks sell millions of accounts to special trusts that issue bonds repaid with monthly credit card payments from account holders. ... (more)

Credit card etiquette: How to politely win credit disputes -- Etiquette experts say that when credit disputes and problems arise, don't reach out and crush someone. Win with courtesy. ... (more)

Self control and credit cards -- Don't shun credit because you've had trouble with overspending in the past. A strategy of taking on credit in small doses is better for you, says Sally Herigstad. ... (more)

Credit issuers becoming less willing to cut deals with debtors -- Credit counseling agencies could once negotiate lower interest rates on behalf of debt-ridden clients. But credit card issuers are no longer willing to be as forgiving. ... (more)

Compare and analyze investment choices after retirement funds are maxed out -- With extra cash on hand, is it best to invest in paying down the mortgage or investing in mutual funds? Maturing Loans columnist Alan Klayman knows. ... (more)

Environment survey: Americans not so eco-friendly with credit cards -- Americans may well be more environmentally conscious these days, but not if it means making major changes in how they use their credit cards, a CreditCards.com national survey shows. ... (more)

Artists recycle credit cards into craft creations -- Some creative crafts people are happy to breathe new life into old cards -- and are doing their part to keep that plastic from heading to the landfill. ... (more)

Credit inquiries and your credit score -- The Credit Guy explains how credit inquiries negatively impact your credit score and how long these inquiries remain on your credit report, as well as advises readers to not needlessly shop for credit. ... (more)

6 tips for dealing with binding mandatory credit card arbitration -- You're probably stuck with binding mandatory credit card arbitration. But these tips will help you cope. ... (more)

Credit card arbitration: What it is, how it works -- If you have a credit card, it's likely you've given up your right to sue if a dispute arises. Most card companies impose mandatory arbitration. ... (more)

How to ask for a lower credit card interest rate -- A reader asks To Her Credit columnist Sally Herigstad just how to go about asking for a reduction in her credit card APR. ... (more)

'Green' credit cards reward the environment -- This interactive feature contains information about numerous 'green' cards, credit cards that use rewards points and money to benefit the environment. ... (more)

Being 'green' with credit cards -- Opting out of paper credit card statements is one way to protect the planet for Earth Day. ... (more)

Retired, with too little income and too much in property taxes -- Living just off her Social Security income, a 72-year-old woman asks columnist Alan Klayman how to go about paying her property taxes on such a small fixed income. ... (more)

A 'green' snapshot: How some U.S. banks are making environmental eco-friendly moves -- A 'green' snapshot: How some U.S. banks are making environmental eco-friendly moves. ... (more)

More landlords accepting rent payments by credit card -- While acceptance is hardly universal, a growing number of landlords allow paying rent by credit card. ... (more)

Is your credit card ripe for fraud? -- When credit card account information is stolen, the thief uses your card information to request a change in the billing address and an additional card. The thief can then use your account for as long as it takes you to realize that your card has been compromised. ... (more)

How to handle collection calls for a dead person's debt -- After a death, creditors may come calling. Here's what to say. ... (more)

What happens to credit card debt after death -- When someone dies with credit card debt, state laws and the original contract terms dictate who owes, and what must be paid. ... (more)

To co-sign or not to co-sign -- A mother wants to help her daughter buy a house, but due to the daughter's bad credit, will have to co-sign the loan. 'To Her Credit' columnist Sally Herigstad weighs the benefits and the risks of co-signing on someone else's loan. ... (more)

How 'cashless' trend affects those who rely on cash -- In a society that increasingly relies on payments by plastic, some who depend on the actual paper dollar have to adjust. ... (more)

Airlines increase frequent flier sign-up bonus rewards for credit cards -- As lenders and airlines compete for the prized frequent flier demographic, credit cards are offering bigger and better airline mileage extras to woo new customers. ... (more)

Tax smarts: Maximizing income tax returns -- This series of articles will help you file your taxes and get the most out of your income tax returns. ... (more)

How to maintain retirement lifestyle while managing debt -- Debt complicates the calculation on how much you'll need to retire in comfort, says 'Maturing Loans' columnist Alan Klayman. ... (more)

Automobile gas cards popularity falls -- Fewer people are using one-company gas credit cards to buy gasoline for their cars. Drivers want the freedom to choose different gas and payment methods. ... (more)

Auto gasoline cards: Compare gas cards -- CreditCards.com reviewed terms and conditions for the top 29 gas credit cards and found more rewards, cash back, points and rebates -- and no annual fees. ... (more)

Credit card spending slows -- U.S. consumers slowed their credit card spending in February, according to the latest Federal Reserve release on consumer credit. ... (more)

Earth Day chores: 10 ways to go green with credit cards -- One of the best ways to go green in your daily life is to choose plastic, not paper. With credit cards, that is. ... (more)

Understanding how credit scores work -- Find out all the different elements that are considered when your credit score is compiled. ... (more)

Establishing credit after divorce -- A stay-at-home mom who finds herself divorced with no credit of her own gets a path to her own credit history from 'To Her Credit' columnist Sally Herigstad. ... (more)

Credit card extreme rewards: Card issuers get creative to reward cardholders -- As the quantity and variety of credit card offers seem to expand like options on a Chinese food take-out menu, card issuers keep searching for new ways to capture and retain customers. ... (more)

Laid off, debt climbing -- If you have savings, there are ways to decrease reliance on credit cards by setting up a short-term income strategy, says Alan Klayman in the debut 'Maturing loans' column. ... (more)

Students universities fees credit card processing costs -- With tuition costs rising and credit tightening, more students are opting to pull out the plastic to pay for their classes. Not all colleges like it. ... (more)

Improving credit to refinance a truck or auto loan -- Steps to take to build a strong credit score. ... (more)

Deep in debt? You may be able to cut a better settlement deal -- A recent drop in prices that debt buyers pay for bad credit card debts may give consumers negotiating settlements more room to negotiate. ... (more)

While paying off debt, learn investing, says 'To Her Credit' columnist Sally Herigstad -- If put off investing, you may get bogged down in trying to pay off your debts and never be able to start your portfolio. ... (more)

Pros and cons of tapping your retirement with 401(k) debit cards -- Now there's a debit card that allows you to access the funds you've saved in your 401(k). It offers flexibility for borrowers -- and scares the pants off financial planners.). ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Pisces might look like -- Deep down, we all want the same things: love, happiness and world peace. Wouldn't it be great if we could just buy them? Well now you can with the PiscesCard. ... (more)

What a credit card for Aquarians might be -- Apply today for this (imaginary) card and receive triple bonus points toward your next protest march or bail bond. ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Capricorn might look like -- A credit card marketing pitch for a Capricorn might start like this: Your goal is the mountaintop. Your plan: Steady ascent. Your tool: CapricornCard. ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Sagittarius might look like -- You're one of the dreamers. And for dreamers like you, there's SagittariusCard. ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Scorpio might look like -- Inhibited you're not. So why would you call it an early night just because a few nagging bills are piling up? You need a credit card that rocks when you roll, pays when you can't and, most importantly, sleeps late when you do. ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Libra might look like -- Do you need a LibraCard? Probably not. Who needs any credit card, right? I mean, you've got cash and the bank just opened that nice barista station with the free chocolate spoons. ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Virgo might look like -- Introducing VirgoCard, the one financial instrument whose terms of use are so deeply mired in legal obfuscation that we Virgo perfectionists will never tire of trying to crack the code. ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Leo might look like -- Hail, King Leo! No mere mortal card for you; only the regal LeoCard will do! ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Gemini might look like -- Conflicted about which card to choose: A debit card that's easy to manage or a credit card that has more features? Now you can have both with the GeminiCard, the one card that's really two cards -- for you and for you! ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Taurus might look like -- A credit card for solid, conservative Taurus? Don't be absurd. And yet your practical Taurean nature keeps whispering maybe, maybe just one card wouldn't hurt. Just for emergencies. ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for an Aries might look like -- The credit card industry has thus far missed out on one of mankind's oldest known loyalty groups, the 12 signs of the zodiac. ... (more)

What's your sign? Zodiac credit cards -- The credit card industry has thus far missed out on one of mankind's oldest known loyalty groups, the 12 signs of the zodiac. We'll fix that! ... (more)

Zodiac credit cards: What a credit card for a Cancer might look like -- Home. We know how much it means to you. That's why we designed the (imaginary) CancerCard, the one credit card guaranteed to keep you safe and secure. ... (more)

Preparing kids for credit card management -- Individuals younger than 18 must have the permission of a parent or legal guardian to obtain a credit card -- here are ways to get them started on the plastic path. ... (more)

4 ways to safeguard personal information online -- As Internet criminals grow smarter and sneakier, it's increasingly difficult to keep your credit card and personal information safe. Here are four fundamental tips. ... (more)

Credit, credit scores and walking away from truck, auto lease -- Seven months after leasing a new truck, a woman realizes she's in too deep and needs to get out of her lease. ... (more)

Credit to their generations: The Millennials -- The attitudes and behaviors of the Millennial Generation and how they use credit cards ... (more)

Credit to their generations: How Generation X views credit cards, debt -- The attitudes and behaviors of Generation X and how they use credit cards ... (more)

Credit to their generations: How baby boomers view credit cards, debt -- The attitudes and behaviors of the baby boomer generation and how they use credit cards ... (more)

Credit to their generations: How 'Greatest' and 'Silent' view credit, debt -- The attitudes and behaviors of the Greatest and Silent generations and how they use credit cards. ... (more)

Credit to their generations: How 'greatest,' boomers, Xers and Millennials differ on credit -- The attitudes and behaviors of different generations and how they use credit cards. ... (more)

Trying to thwart recession, Fed cuts rates by 0.75% -- The Federal Reserve, as expected, slashed a key interest rate, but whether that cut will be passed along to individual cardholders depends on the bank, the card agreement and the credit standing of the consumer. ... (more)

Don't let a disability ruin your credit -- An unexpected illness or injury can send you into debt and sink your credit rating faster than you can say, 'I need disability.' ... (more)

Credit card thieves 'skimming' pay-at-the-pump gasoline buyers -- As if the high cost of gas wasn't enough, credit and debit card users who pay at the pump have to face a new way to be gouged at the pump: skimmers. ... (more)

Obama, Clinton offer credit card reform plans -- Presidential hopefuls Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are courting voters with reform policies to tackle predatory credit card industry practices. McCain? Not so much. ... (more)

Starting over and getting new credit after a bankruptcy -- A woman pays off her bankruptcy and is ready to build her credit again. ... (more)

Recession-proof your credit and finances -- Economic downturn. Temporary slump. Whatever you want to call it, you need to be prepared financially for economic ups and downs. ... (more)

Poll: Half of America won't spend their 'stimulus' rebate -- The president wants us to spend it, but most say saving and paying off debt are higher priorities for their economic stimulus rebate checks. ... (more)

Buying pirated music with credit cards: potentially risky -- Those who use their credit cards to buy songs from controversial Russian-based Web sites may be engaging in international piracy. ... (more)

Despite lingering online fears, virtual credit cards stall -- Although the paranoia that spawned them and the hoopla that accompanied their birth have died down, virtual credit cards are still available for those who want extra assurance. ... (more)

Forgiven credit card debt is often taxable: 1099-C forms follow debt resolution -- Tax attorneys and consumer advocates say many consumers aren't aware that forgiven credit card debt may be taxable income on a 1099-C form. ... (more)

Consider all options before filing for bankruptcy, says The Credit Guy -- The reason that bankruptcy is recommended only as a last resort is because of the personal and financial toll a bankruptcy has on a person or family, The Credit Guy advises a reader. ... (more)

Card issuers' bad earnings reshape credit card offers -- The awful annual results reported by credit card issuers may not be felt only by shareholders. They have begun to cause pain to some credit cardholders, as well. ... (more)

Relocation and credit cards: managing credit and moving -- Prevent unnecessary expenses and maintain your credit score by keeping tabs on your credit cards and debt during a move. ... (more)

Car's too small, loan's upside down -- A woman who needs a bigger car but who is upside down on her car loan should focus on paying down the debt before looking at bigger vehicles, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

Q&A: Credit counselor urges consumer education -- Too few people know about or talk about debt, says the head of one of the major counseling accrediting agencies. ... (more)

Consumer credit woes mean boom in debt collection -- If you've never been contacted by a debt collector before, chances are growing you will. Collection activity has increased sharply as the economy swoons, and it's more important than ever for consumers to know their rights. ... (more)

Visa sets IPO date -- Visa announced details of its impending IPO stock sale, and it's a doozie: Even at the low end of its projected price, it would by far become the largest initial public offering in U.S. history. ... (more)

529-linked credit cards help make college more affordable -- New credit cards link to 529 plans and function like cash-back credit cards, putting rebates into a college savings plan ... (more)

Rich lady, big overdue card debt -- A woman with $16,000 in delinquent credit card debt, but plenty of money to pay it off, needs to do more than just write a check if she hopes to avoid repeating her mistake, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

Best to skip most 'skip-a-payment' offers -- Offers by credit card issuers to skip a monthly payment can seem like a godsend, but if cardholders think such payment holidays are a free ride, they'd better think again. ... (more)

Keeping up credit while in jail may not be possible -- It's noble to want to help a jailed friend keep up his credit score while serving time, but unless you want to pay his bills, some things just aren't possible, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

Tips for immigrants building a U.S. credit history -- America lures many who dream of living better. But when immigrants arrive, their credit histories rarely make the trip. ... (more)

10 wacky ways to spend 'stimulus' money -- Anyone can be responsible with the windfall from the economic stimulus package. But can you creatively blow the money? We could. Here are 10 ideas. ... (more)

10 wise ways to spend 'stimulus' money -- Here's 10 suggestions from experts for smart ways to spend the windfall from Uncle Sam's economic stimulus package. ... (more)

Americans say they'll take rebate money and pay off debt -- The economic stimulus windfall is on its way and Americans tell pollsters they'll use it pay off debt. Yeah. Sure. ... (more)

Banks may cut slack for tornado victims -- After dozens of tornadoes whipped through the South, killing at least 57 people, the federal government, banks and credit card issuers offer relief. ... (more)

Credit card balance transfers -- This series of articles will help you figure out the best way to transfer and consolidate the balance of your debt. ... (more)

Use corporate credit cards wisely -- Used wisely, corporate credit cards can help you achieve career goals and reap personal perks. Used poorly, they can lead to a corporate freefall, or at least a drop of a few rungs. ... (more)

Dad co-signed, I messed up his credit. Now what? -- You ruined Dad's credit score by running up a big debt on a card he co-signed for you, but no, you didn't cost him his house, The Credit Guy advises a reader. ... (more)

6 tips for organizing gift, debit and credit cards -- Between gift cards, debit cards and credit cards, you can end up with a lot of plastic. Here are six organizing tips. ... (more)

Credit card spending increases for health care -- A CreditCards.com poll found that nearly two out of three Americans say they or their family could face hard financial times if they experience a serious illness. ... (more)

Health care credit cards rise to fill insurance gap -- As the ranks of the uninsured soar and medical costs rise for those with insurance, a new generation of health care cards is emerging on the market, but not everyone is cheering their arrival. ... (more)

CreditCards.com poll results: Credit and health care costs -- A CreditCards.com poll finds a majority of Americans realize that inability to pay their share of health care costs has the potential to wipe them out financially. ... (more)

15 tips for paying high medical bills -- Savvy consumers should comparison shop for payment options when paying for medical expenses. Here are some helpful tips to cope with high medical bills. ... (more)

Comparing health care credit options -- Credit card issuers are offering a growing number of options for financing medical expenses. Use this table to compare and find the best deal. ... (more)

How to opt out of credit card rate increases -- If you've been notified that your interest rate is going to jump, you may be able to pay your credit card off at the old rate, but you lose use of the card. ... (more)

Fed rate cuts and your credit card -- The Federal Reserve's rate-setting committee, trying to give a flagging economy an adrenaline boost, again lowered a key short-term interest rate Wednesday. ... (more)

United Way links card use to donations -- One of the country's best-known nonprofits is trying to raise money from the rise in Americans' use of credit and debit cards. ... (more)

When do credit card balance transfers make sense? -- Having a firm repayment plan makes the difference, The Credit Guy tells a reader. ... (more)

How young is too young for credit cards? -- Preparation for wise credit card use should begin early to help children avoid trouble when they can legally apply for cards at 18. ... (more)

Pay off credit card debt or declare bankruptcy? -- It's painful, but a reader who took $13,000 in credit card cash advances and lost it to an Internet scam needs to pay the money back, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

Cell phone plus contactless credit card equals Yak, wave, buy -- What do you get when you add contactless credit capabilities to your cell phone? A single device for making calls and credit card purchases. You yak, you wave, you buy. ... (more)

Shifting environment in fees, security breeds Revolution Card -- An well-financed upstart is taking on the card network giants and hopes merchants and consumers will embrace it. ... (more)

Q&A: Pawn off $10,000 credit card debt on son? No way! -- The Credit Guy, who answers readers' questions for CreditCards.com, thinks this parent can pay off the delinquent bill. ... (more)

Bankers, poker players oppose Feds' online gaming rules -- The legality of online gambling has long been debated by U.S. officials, but the latest regulation efforts have tried to shut down the money conduit -- payments systems that enable online bets. ... (more)

Holiday credit card debt solutions -- Climbing out of holiday debt isn't easy, but it has to be done. Here's how to assess the damage and get a plan together. ... (more)

Cure the debt hangover, shed credit card debt -- This set of articles will help you understand why you keep finding yourself in holiday debt, how to get out of this mess and how to prevent it from happening again next year. ... (more)

12 tips for renting a car with a debit card -- Renting a car with no credit card can be done, but expect extra obstacles and costs. These tips can help you overcome them. ... (more)

Credit Score - Protect yours with a debt consolidation plan -- In order to protect their credit score, many consumers are seeking debt consolidation loans. ... (more)

Expert Q&A: Budget for debt, but not too tightly -- A recent college graduate saddled with debt needs a spending and paydown plan, but it's bound to fail unless it includes some fun, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

21 resolutions to beat credit woes and debt regret -- Minimize debt and maximize credit advantages in the coming year with these 21 credit and debt resolutions. ... (more)

Disclosures would increase on subprime credit card fees -- Subprime cards carry upfront fees that the Federal Reserve board contends are not clearly disclosed to customers. ... (more)

Regulation Z proposed changes for minimum payments -- Credit card companies and credit issuers would have to tell account holders how long it would take to repay loans if they make minimum payments. ... (more)

Regulation Z amendments would require changes in credit card terms -- Regulation Z amendments would require changes in credit card terms to be displayed in a table for easy reading. ... (more)

Rules for credit card periodic statement disclosures -- Under proposed federal rule changes, monthly credit card statements would include tables to clearly disclose fees, interest, purchases and other details. ... (more)

Credit card reform: The fine print of proposed changes to Regulation Z -- Regulation Z requires creditors to disclose all costs and terms before a new credit card's first use. However, according to the board, "Currently, there are few ... (more)

Regulation Z rules proposed for credit card fee disclosures -- Credit card companies would have to clearly disclose fees charged to credit cardholders. ... (more)

Regulation Z would require credit card APR disclosure rules -- Regulation Z would require credit card companies to clearly disclose APRs. ... (more)

Regulation amendments propose fixed rate credit cards -- Fixed credit card rates would actually be fixed under Regulation Z amendments. ... (more)

Reg Z proposes credit card notice of term changes to 45 days -- Changes in terms of credit card contracts would need 45 days' advance notice. ... (more)

'Regulation Z' overhaul to change credit card fine print rules -- The Federal Reserve Board has proposed the most sweeping changes in nearly 30 years to credit card disclosure rules, known as Regulation Z. ... (more)

Regulation Z: Feds move to change credit card rules -- The Federal Reserve Board is likely to decide on final credit card disclosure rules in 2008. ... (more)

How the public feels about Regulation Z proposed changes to credit card disclosure rules -- Comments from consumers, credit grantors, payment processors and others on proposed changes to credit card disclosure rules ... (more)

Taking a credit card on a foreign vacation: 10 tips -- On balance, bringing your credit card on vacation is a smart decision, but expect extra fees and take precautions. ... (more)

Ask The Credit Guy: Should I do credit rehab myself? -- Credit counselor Todd Ossenfort, aka The Credit Guy, answers a reader's question about whether it's wise to embark on do-it-yourself credit repair. ... (more)

Verifone VX 670 allows diners to pay at the table -- The Verifone VX 670 allows transactions to be made at the table, keeping credit cards out of servers' hands. ... (more)

The history of credit cards -- A history of credit cards, including the first general use credit card and the first charge card. ... (more)

Poll: Millions will borrow to pay '08 winter heating bills -- Heating oil costs may exceed consumer budgets, leaving borrowing and credit cards as the only option for many families, a CreditCards.com survey shows. ... (more)

Poll: Gas prices will make '08 economy sputter -- Americans' longstanding addiction to gasoline will continue well into 2008, despite rising fuel costs, and may contribute to a slowdown in the overall economy, a new CreditCards.com poll reveals. ... (more)

Credit Freeze: Use it to prevent identity fraud -- Find out more about credit freezes, an effective way to fight identity fraud. ... (more)

The short, unhappy life of a credit card -- On average, a card lasts must three years before delamination, degaussing or (ulp!) scissors, so CreditCards.com asked one credit card to reminisce about its short unhappy life. ... (more)

Identity theft: Credit card dangers lurk on smaller Web sites -- Credit card dangers, such as identity theft, can pose a greater threat on smaller Web sites. ... (more)

Anatomy of a credit card -- Ever wonder what all those numbers mean, or what's on that black stripe? Find out here. ... (more)

Be cautious about opening store credit card accounts during the holidays -- Store credit cards may be appealing to shoppers looking to save money, but there are a number of reasons that initial 10% savings may not be enough to make having such a card a winning proposition. ... (more)

Credit card industry: The Senate weighs in -- Is the credit card industry heading toward the same debacle as the subprime mortgage industry? If unfair and deceptive trade practices continue -- and more ... (more)

Strategies for managing, getting rid of credit card debt -- Strategies for managing and getting rid of debt, including debt consolidation, while not hurting your credit. ... (more)

Business Credit Card Application Towards Start-up Costs -- Learn how Home Artisan Authority used a credit card to start its successful business. ... (more)

Charge card used for charitable giving yields rewards -- Charge cards can serve as a way to fund your favorite charities and non-profit organizations. ... (more)

Feds propose new right for consumers in credit disputes -- It will become a bit easier for consumers to dispute changes in their credit reports directly with banks or companies, according to a newly published federal regulation. ... (more)

Reward options for business credit cards: miles, rewards, cash back -- Business credit cards used to be plain-vanilla, no-frills cards that served only as a way to separate business spending from personal spending. Look how they've grown. ... (more)

Reward options for business credit cards: miles, rewards and cash back -- Business credit cards used to be plain-vanilla, no-frills cards that served only as a way to separate business spending from personal spending. Now business credit cards offer as many reward options as personal credit cards. ... (more)

Time's running out to claim currency conversion fee refund -- Consumers need to act fast in order to claim their share of a court-ordered multimillion dollar settlement with credit card giants over poorly disclosed fees on foreign transactions. ... (more)

How to claim expired gift card funds -- Tips for reclaiming 'lost' gift card money ... (more)

Gift card survey shows it pays to comparison shop -- If you want a 'use anywhere' gift card, expect to pay for the privilege, says the CreditCards.com survey. ... (more)

CreditCards.com survey of leading gift card providers -- CreditCards.com surveyed leading gift card providers to compare popular gift cards. ... (more)

7 tips for paying winter heating bills -- Having a hard time paying astronomic heating bills? These 7 tips can help. ... (more)

High winter heating bills, meet credit cards -- With heating bills sky high, consumers will be tempted to use utilities' new credit card payment options. Should they? ... (more)

Which utilities allow credit card payments in the United States? -- CreditCards.com surveyed many of the largest utility companies in the United States. A growing number of them offer customers the option of paying their bills with credit cards. Find out which major utility providers offer the service in your state. ... (more)

Study: Too much optimism leads to late card payments -- A little optimism leads to healthy financial decisions, according to researchers. Too much leads to overconfidence -- and unpaid bills. ... (more)

New programs encourage paying your mortgage via credit card -- Experts say these programs can work for the well-heeled, but for most, putting a house on cards is as financially flimsy as a house of cards. ... (more)

Moving abroad? Your credit history in the U.S. won't follow -- No matter how good your credit in the U.S., if you need to establish credit in a foreign country, expect to start over. ... (more)

Credit card fraud monitoring can halt legitimate purchases -- While no one disputes the good that comes from preventing fraudulent transactions, overactive anti-fraud programs can prevent cardholders' legitimate transactions. ... (more)

Life before plastic: Historical look at credit card materials -- Before there were modern credit cards, charge plates, charge coins and celluloid cards did the trick. ... (more)

Interest in collectible credit cards won't expire -- Most just shred old credit cards. But for a few devotees, expired plastic -- especially if it came from an expired celebrity -- can be worth collecting. ... (more)

A CreditCards.com survey of airline blackout dates -- CreditCards.com survey finds few formal blackout dates, but some restrictions still apply. ... (more)

Despite 'no-blackout' promises, fliers' freebies limited -- A CreditCards.com survey of the 16 frequent flier cards offered by 10 large issuers finds it's hard to book that coveted holiday seat, no matter how loudly the card company proclaims 'no blackout dates.' ... (more)

Credit card fraud and online shopping -- Learn the credit card fraud dangers of online shopping and how to avoid them. ... (more)

'Point cards' offer virtual rewards to video gamers -- A new plastic currency for Xbox 360 and Wii lets video gamers pay real money for unreal advantages in their virtual worlds. This 'gamer currency' might be a great gift idea, but there are drawbacks. ... (more)

8 ways to compare credit cards -- Compare credit cards with ease and use the information to get the best deal. ... (more)

Credit freezes go national, get chilly welcome -- All three major credit bureaus have rolled out credit freezes as an identity theft fighting tool, but consumer rights groups say the changes don't go far enough. ... (more)

Disaster preparedness: Using credit cards wisely during catastrophes -- These 9 questions and answers will help you use credit and credit cards wisely in a catastrophe. ... (more)

Cardholders in Wildfire Stricken CA Aided by Banks -- Banks are working with victims of the California wildfires. Learn how at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Pre-disaster financial preparedness checklist -- If there's an disaster, you have to react quickly to make sure your important financial records remain safe. This checklist will show you how. ... (more)

Details of credit freeze laws in all 50 states -- Most states have passed credit freeze laws to combat identity theft and fraud. Here are the details for each state. ... (more)

11 steps to help older debtors get out of credit card debt -- Experts list 11 ways for middle-age adults to get finances in order and pay off credit card debt. ... (more)

Older Americans' credit card debt rising -- Bankruptcy filings up among older credit card users, but experts offer quick ways to rein in debt. ... (more)

Establishing credit for your children -- The demise of so-called 'piggybacking' has closed one avenue to getting kids a credit head start, but there are others. ... (more)

Bill Pay Priorities: Mortgage payment takes precedence over card payment -- The majority of homeowners will make house payments even if it affects other bills. Learn why at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Best credit card for customer satisfaction determined through survey -- According to the 2007Credit Card Satisfaction survey, AmEx provides the highest customer satisfaction. Read more at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Citibank Mastercard and Chase Visa are preferred cards for acclaimed writer -- 'What Should I Do With My Life' author, Po Bronson, asks big questions about life and answers a few about credit cards. ... (more)

Debit card and credit card usage rise as primary payment choice -- As debit card and credit card purchases become increasingly popular, check and cash payments wane. ... (more)

Use of credit cards rises for business start-up financing -- Call it a David and Goliath story. Small business entrepreneurs increasingly finance their ventures with credit cards. No longer must they sign away a chunk ... (more)

Bail yourself out of jail -- with a credit card -- The difference between spending a night in jail and getting out on bail may depend on whether your wallet contains a credit card. ... (more)

Credit card arbitrage: Easy, but dangerous money -- Credit card companies usually make money from consumers. For a few daring consumers, it's the other way around. ... (more)

9 ways to avoid the subprime spillover problems -- The tightening of credit in the mortgage world has had limited effects so far among credit card issuers, but there are ways to make sure it won't hit you at all, experts say. ... (more)

Subprime mortgage mess eludes credit cardholders, so far -- The credit tightening caused by the subprime mortgage meltdown has so far only singed credit cardholders. ... (more)

Credit card industry and personal debt statistics (2005 and prior) -- Credit card industry and personal debt statistics for 2005 and earlier. ... (more)

Pro football credit cards debut from NFL, Bank of America -- Credit cards for the sports nut have gone pro, just in time for the kickoff of the National Football League season. ... (more)

Credit card offers continue even after bankruptcy -- It used to be difficult to get credit card offers after bankruptcy, but it has changed. ... (more)

4 ways to re-establish credit after bankruptcy -- Most responsible consumers who go through bankruptcy hope to borrow money again at reasonable rates. It can be done. Here's how. ... (more)

CreditCards.com editorial corrections policy -- CreditCards.com strives to publish accurate information. If you believe we have published something in error or wish to comment on an article, please e-mail us at editors@CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Credit cards: instant financing for instant messenger -- Some small-business owners turn to credit cards out of desperation. For the co-founders of Meebo.com, it was a conscious choice. ... (more)

Gas buyers fume at credit, debit card limits, 'blocks' -- High gas prices, industry practices leave consumers sputtering at the pump when they pay with plastic. ... (more)

Interest rate cut won't reach credit card rates (Aug 2007) -- Federal interest rate cut may not affect the federal funds rate for some time. (Aug 2007) ... (more)

Best Credit Card Rewards: Amazing experiences with experiential rewards -- Today's best credit card rewards can earn you golfing tips from Tiger Woods. ... (more)

Prepaid Credit Card Company: EDP gets blocked by FTC -- The FTC has blocked prepaid credit card company EDP after complaints of unauthorized withdrawals. ... (more)

Artist peddling designs for your credit card -- Anthony Adams makes unique credit card designs and skins. Read more at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Personalized cards allow you to customize your credit card -- Personalize your credit card! CreditCards.com lets you know the options for creating a unique card. ... (more)

National Consumer Law Center report advises credit card industry changes -- A National Consumer Law Center report contends the credit card industry pushes consumers to borrow beyond their means, and recommends new regulations. ... (more)

6 steps to minimize debt, maximize credit card rewards -- Reward credit cards can be a great tool. They allow consumers to earn points on charges than can be turned into perks such as cash ... (more)

Credit card, debit card payments displace checks and cash -- Credit cards continue to displace cash and checks as the preferred method of payment at businesses across the U.S. According to the Federal Reserve Payments ... (more)

Credit Card Services - Chase Clear and Simple Program -- Chase credit card services include receiving credits for enrolling for free alerts, automatic payments, and online statements. ... (more)

Can you blame a credit card for those extra pounds? -- Data suggests that consumers may be contributing to their own weight problems by making fast-food purchases using credit cards and debit cards. ... (more)

Defaulting on student loans: Advice from CreditCards.com -- Defaulting on a student loan can have a number of negative consequences, including leaving the borrower with bad credit. ... (more)

A soup peddling entrepreneur uses a credit card to finance his career switch -- A soup peddling entrepreneur uses a credit card to finance his career switch. ... (more)

For Gen M, pizza's on par with good credit -- The hard work put in by marketers and educators appears to have convinced students that it's important to keep their credit scores up. In fact, ... (more)

Travel credit card insurance concerns finds American Express in legal battle -- American Express could face a class action suit on charges it billed cardholders for travel insurance unnecessarily. ... (more)

Contactless credit card technology now available in the USA -- Wave your contactless credit card to effortlessly charge your purchase. Why are retailers slow to adopt it? ... (more)

Bill payment tips for making due dates every month -- Learn bill payment tips that will help you make payments on time and ensure all charges are authorized. ... (more)

Credit Card Fees Jump When Writing Cash Advance Checks -- Credit card fees can be costly when using credit card checks for some quick cash. ... (more)

Discover Cards: Summer cash back bonuses -- Discover Cards have numerous cash back opportunities over the summer, including vacations and gasoline points. Find out more at CreditCards.com ... (more)

Discover cards: Monogrammed student cards provide the ultimate personalized effect -- New Discover cards for students give users the opportunity to fully personalize their credit cards. ... (more)

Credit card sponsorship for World Cup decided -- MasterCard drops sponsorship lawsuit against FIFA, and Visa will be the sponsor. Read more at CreditCards.com ... (more)

Bank Loans and Credit Card Debt - CreditCards.com -- Consumers may be focusing their repayments on credit cards instead of bank loans or mortgages. ... (more)

Personalize your Discover card with the Monogram -- Get more cash back when purchasing gas with the Discover card platinum gas card. ... (more)

Credit checks are required before iPhone activation -- Consumers wanting the iPhone must submit to credit checks and may be required to pay up to $1,000 security deposit if credit's no good. ... (more)

Credit card issuers may reduce credit limits -- Learn the reasons why an issuer may decide to reduce the credit limit on a consumer's credit card. ... (more)

Higher gas prices bump pump limits -- Higher gas prices have credit card users bumping up against limits on pay-at-the-pump charge amounts. ... (more)

Major credit cards may deny purchase of lottery tickets -- Can you buy lottery tickets with your credit card? Perhaps not, as reported by CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Credit cards integral to small business financing -- Business credit cards represent a viable option for small businesses in need of some funds. ... (more)

Transferring student loan to a credit cards makes sense -- occasionally -- Struggling with student loans? Learn the options of transferring to a credit card. ... (more)

Avoid rewards credit card pitfalls -- The perks provided by a rewards credit card, including cash back, can be outweighed by pitfalls consumers should avoid. ... (more)

Airline Credit Cards: Delta Airlines changes its processing methods -- Delta has eliminated holdbacks with credit card processors, ensuring it will receive payment when consumers use airline credit cards. ... (more)

Small business tax payments when limited by cash flow -- Learn how small business tax payments can be paid by credit card when facing limited cash flow. ... (more)

Canadian gets 11 years for bad credit credit card scam -- A Canadian man was sentenced to 11 years in jail for a scam that fraudulently promised bad credit credit cards to U.S. consumers. ... (more)

Buying a car with a credit card -- Using a low interest credit card rather than a car loan to finance a car could be an option, as long as you are aware of what could trigger an increase in the card's APR. ... (more)

BofA, Citi bet on black for wealthy customers -- Bank of America and Citi introduce black credit cards featuring the American Express logo designed for the banks' wealthiest clients. ... (more)

Credit Card Debt Statistics: Economic data shows decline in debt -- Statistics show a decline in credit card debt. As consumers pay off their bills. ... (more)

Avoiding bad credit when you lose a job -- Unemployed? Take these steps to avoid getting slapped with bad credit after losing a job. ... (more)

Credit cards for bad credit: Improving your credit quality -- Managed responsibly, credit cards for bad credit can help you improve your credit rating. ... (more)

James Scurlock on 'Maxed Out' documentary -- Filmmaker James Scurlock sits down with CreditCards.com to answer questions about 'Maxed Out, his documentary on the credit card industry. ... (more)

Credit card companies might have a liability risk -- An article in the University of Illinois Law Review charges that a case of products liability could be leveled against credit cards. ... (more)

Debt restructuring through a mortgage broker -- Learn how debt restructuring with a mortgage broker can help improve bad credit. ... (more)

Poor Credit May Impact Your Insurance Rates -- Learn how insurers do not need to notify you if poor credit is affecting your rates. ... (more)

The silver lining: new options for clouded credit -- Consumers with bad credit will welcome the relatively recent popularity of prepaid credit cards and secured credit cards. ... (more)

AmEx asks cardholders to join 'members project' -- With 'The Members Project,' American Express is inviting its cardholders to offer and vote on ideas aimed at making the world a better place, with AmEx contributing up to $5 million for the winning concept. ... (more)

Student Credit Cards: Handling debt post-graduation -- How should students handle credit card debt post-graduation? Learn some techniques at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Credit card study shows Americans' feelings towards credit cards -- A new credit card study shows many people think credit cards are an easy way to fall into debt. ... (more)

Credit Card Deals: Available in Iraq for the first time -- Iraqis can now apply for credit cards and use them for overseas business transactions. Learn more at CreditCards.com ... (more)

Card Services from American Express extend to Mortgage Payments -- Do you own a home? Soon you can pay your mortgage with American Express. Learn more at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Review of documentary "Maxed Out" -- This review of the documentary film "Maxed Out" gives readers an idea of what to expect from the movie's critical look at the U.S. credit card industry. ... (more)

Credit card balance transfer: Move debt to a lower interest card -- Periodically transferring credit balances to a lower interest card may be a good strategy. ... (more)

Gas Station Credit Cards: Connecticut and Exxon dispute over taxes -- Exxon gas station credit cards for Connecticut's state agencies are canceled over tax dispute. ... (more)

'Piggybacking' your way out of bad credit -- Consumers with bad credit can pay to 'piggyback' onto the credit card accounts of others in an effort to boost poor credit scores. ... (more)

Citigroup pledges $50 billion to the environment -- Citi announced a commitment of $50 billion to environmental projects during the next decade. ... (more)

Citi launches new brand and ad campaign -- Citi has launched a new advertising campaign featuring the theme "Let's Get it Done." ... (more)

World of Warcraft credit card -- The World of Warcraft Rewards Visa allows credit card users to earn WoW online game time with every qualifying purchase. ... (more)

Free credit report: Do you need to pay for it? -- Manage your credit and decide how to get your free credit report. ... (more)

Visa credit card company announces new CEO. -- Joseph Saunders will be the new CEO for the Visa credit card company. ... (more)

Bad credit and divorce -- There's a link between bad credit and divorce. Learn how to avoid the pitfalls. ... (more)

Credit Card Information: Federal Reserve proposes new guidelines for terms -- The Federal Reserve has proposed new rules that would require credit card issuers to communicate rates and fees through credit card disclosures more clearly. ... (more)

Predatory lending often targets consumers with bad credit or low incomes who may have fewer options when borrowing money -- Predatory lending involves unfair interest rates and fees and often targets consumers with bad credit or low incomes who may have fewer options when borrowing money. ... (more)

Hidden credit card 'currency conversion fees' for overseas purchases may be returned -- Hidden credit card 'currency conversion fees' may be returned -- if you file soon. ... (more)

Paperless credit card statements: Right for you? -- Paperless statements from banks and other financial institutions can be beneficial for corporations and consumers, but consider these issues before you go electronic. ... (more)

Airlines Credit Card: Redeeming flier miles as airline fees rise -- Redeem your credit card frequent flier miles as more airlines raise the costs of fees for flying. ... (more)

Unemployed? Poor credit can leave you jobless -- Poor credit could affect whether you get hired for a job, since many employers look at applicants' credit reports. ... (more)

Turning bad credit to good credit -- Consumers can go from having no credit to good credit of they follow some basic strategies and always make their payments on time using bad credit credit cards. ... (more)

Secured credit cards offer consumers a low-cost way to rebuild their credit -- Secured credit cards offer consumers a low-cost way to rebuild their credit. ... (more)

MasterCard Continental Finance Gold Can Build Your Credit Rating -- Bad credit? The Continental Finance Gold MasterCard can help you repair damaged credit or build credit history. ... (more)

Cash allowances best for kids -- Experts recommend a cash allowance for children, rather than just buying them whatever they want or allowing use of a credit card. ... (more)

Study says smart people aren't necessarily wealthier -- A recent study found that smarter people may earn more money, but that doesn't mean they are necessarily wealthier. ... (more)

Consumer borrowing surged in March 2007 -- Read how consumer borrowing surged in March 2007 despite the housing slump. ... (more)

ABA says card industry responding to criticism -- The head of the American Bankers Association told lawmakers that the credit card industry is responding to criticism. ... (more)

Prepaid Credit Card: The All-Access Prepaid Card from Mastercard -- No bank account, credit check, or monthly fee required. Is a prepaid credit card right for you? ... (more)

Store credit cards offering rewards focus on customer loyalty -- Customer loyalty has store credit cards fine tuning reward programs for valued shoppers. ... (more)

Survey: Alternative payment methods grow in acceptance -- A recently completed survey from the consulting firm Brulant found a 267 percent spike in the acceptance of nontraditional payment methods by some of the biggest ... (more)

Mastercard sponsorship of World Cup in question. -- Swiss panel influences Mastercard sponsorship battle over World Cup. Read more at CreditCards.com ... (more)

Pocket-sized devices enable credit card skimming -- Pocket-sized scanners allow crooks to skim credit card information when consumers hand over their plastic at stores, restaurants, and gas stations. ... (more)

Debit card survey shows consumers prefer them over credit cards -- A new debit card survey shows consumers prefer debit cards to credit cards. ... (more)

Sotheby's credit card program offers rewards cards -- The new Sotheby credit card program allows individuals to earn points toward goods and services including museum donations. ... (more)

Over-the-limit fees can occur if a credit card is used before monthly payment is processed -- A consumer could get hit with over-the-limit fees if they use their credit card before the card issuer processes the cardholder's monthly payment. ... (more)

Merchants encourage use of PINs for debit card payments -- Merchants encourage PIN numbers in debit card transactions due to lower fees. Read more at CreditCards.com ... (more)

How corporate credit card can affect personal credit scores -- Do you have a corporate credit card in your name? If not handled right -- by you or your company -- it can affect your credit score. ... (more)

Mileage Credit Card Rewards: Fewer flights for your points. -- Despite a decrease in flight values, mileage credit card rewards require same number of points. ... (more)

Advance fee credit cards -- Advance-fee credit cards target consumers with bad credit, but charge massive fees, don't rebuilt credit and can't be used like real credit cards. Avoid them. ... (more)

Tax time resolutions can help you reorganize finances -- Quick tax time resolutions can help you gain control of financial weaknesses. ... (more)

Bad credit history and delinquent credit cards -- Having delinquent credit cards can quickly result in having a bad credit history and other repercussions. ... (more)

Bank of America to offer credit cards in China -- Bank of America plans to join forces with China Construction Bank to offer credit cards to Chinese consumers.  In an announcement by the two companies on April ... (more)

Airline reward credit card programs increasing popularity -- Recent trends show increasing preference for an airline reward credit card over cash back cards. ... (more)

Bank of America sued over "Keep the Change" program -- Bank of America is being sued for allegedly infringing on another company's patent with BofA's "Keep the Change" program for debit card purchases. ... (more)

Minimum credit card payments rise -- The increase in minimum monthly payments for credit cards issued by major banks has both positives and negatives for consumers. ... (more)

MasterCard to be used at Coca-Cola vending machines -- Following a contract with Coca-Cola, MasterCard will be accepted for vending machine purchases. Learn more at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Personalized Credit Card with CreditCovers -- CreditCovers lets a consumers have a personalized credit card. Choose your decorative design today. ... (more)

AmEx updates advertising campaign twice in three years -- American Express introduces 'Are you a cardmember?' as its new advertising catchphrase. ... (more)

Discover updates some of its top credit cards -- Discover has updated the names, appearances, and rewards programs for some of its popular credit cards ... (more)

The new Bank of America MLB Extra Bases credit card lets cardholders earn points that can be redeemed for baseball-related rewards -- The new Bank of America MLB Extra Bases credit card lets cardholders earn points that can be redeemed for baseball-related rewards. ... (more)

Identity Theft: Fraud targeting small businesses over the telephone -- Identity theft over the phone has merchants revealing shopper's credit card information. ... (more)

Credit card processor company purchased by KKR -- Private equity firm buys out First Data, a credit card processor. Read more at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Credit Card reward program - Earn points for home improvement projects -- Start earning credit card reward points when making purchases for your next home improvement project. ... (more)

Credit card security law holds retailers accountable in Minnesota -- Learn how a credit card security law holds retailers accountable for storing account numbers stolen for fraudulent purposes. ... (more)

Discover Business Credit Card: New offer from Discover -- Discover has recently entered into the small business market with the Discover business credit card. ... (more)

Visa outlines plans for cell phone credit cards -- The president and CEO of Visa announced investments and partnerships that will help the company move ahead with the concept of using cell phones like a credit card or debit card. ... (more)

Avoid higher credit card interest rates -- Consumers are not powerless when it comes to their credit card's interest rate. Careful complaining can lower the rate; learn how. ... (more)

Making rewards credit cards, saving work together -- Picking the rewards credit card with the best perks can be an easier way for consumers to save than by manipulating their cash flow. ... (more)

Credit Cards | Industry improvements that benefit consumers -- The CEO and president of the American Bankers Association highlighted some of the recent changes to the credit card industry that have helped consumers. ... (more)

Pay taxes with a credit card -- Need to pay your taxes? Try using your credit card. ... (more)

Visa Credit Card offered to NYPD recruits for job costs -- Police Academy rookies are being offered low interest Visa credit cards to help pay for equipment. ... (more)

Small business credit card processing: setting up customer payment methods -- Business owners should look beyond their business credit card issuer when selecting a credit card processor, weighing such factors as fees, equipment, lag time, and extras. ... (more)

Small business study shows credit cards provide expense separation -- A new small business study shows many business owners use credit cards for easy bookkeeping. ... (more)

Card issuers to pay $336 million for currency conversion fees -- Credit cardholders could get back the additional 2 percent in foreign transaction fees after major U.S. credit card issuers agreed to pay $336 million in claims for charging undisclosed currency conversion fees to Americans who used their credit cards and debit ... (more)

Credit card rates: How to get them lowered -- Lower your credit card rates with these tips. Save money on interest. ... (more)

Boost your credit score by raising your credit card limits -- By asking banks or credit unions for an extension of the limits on their credit cards, consumers can improve their credit scores. ... (more)

PAYjr Prepaid Credit Card: Online account access and more -- The Payjr prepaid credit card is a MasterCard lets kids shop, but prevents them from making certain types of transactions. ... (more)

Financial literacy programs promote credit responsibility -- Lenders and universities are creating programs to help students avoid credit card debt by giving them the opportunity to gain financial literacy. ... (more)

Bank of America to offer "green" credit card -- Bank of America plans to offer eco-friendly credit cards later in 2007 as part of a $20 billion environmental program. ... (more)

Business reward credit card: Helps you earn rewards faster -- Read how a business reward credit card can earn you free flights and other perks. ... (more)

Canceling a credit card can impact your credit score -- You may want to cancel a credit card, but it can actually hurt your credit score. ... (more)

Late credit card payments flat in 4Q 2006 -- The American Bankers Association said the percentage of credit card payments that were delinquent remained basically flat in the fourth quarter of 2006. ... (more)

MasterCard Credit Card: Change in fee structure, but retailers protest -- Retailers are protesting the planned changes to the MasterCard credit card reward program. ... (more)

Bank of America to test cell phone credit cards -- Bank of America employees in Delaware will begin testing cell phones that can be used as credit cards. ... (more)

Lines of credit and other components of your credit score explained -- Lines of credit, debt amounts and other components of your credit score explained at CreditCards.com ... (more)

How credit cards work: Magnetic stripe, point of sale terminals, processing -- How a credit card works: the magnetic stripe, the point-of-sale terminal that reads and processes the credit card. ... (more)

How credit card giant Visa shaped its corporate structure -- Before it went public, Visa had a decentralized structure. ... (more)

Credit card fraud: examining debit and credit card payment fraud -- Consumers need to protect personal information when shopping and at home. ... (more)

Vishing: Credit card fraud that starts on the phone -- A type of credit card fraud called 'vishing' starts with fraudulent inquires about personal information over the phone. ... (more)

Security-conscious GratisCard is a credit card that shows no personal information -- The GratisCard credit card will show no personal information and uses a PIN number for transactions. ... (more)

Small business credit card processing: restaurants may be a security risk -- The credit card industry has begun to penalize restaurants that do not follow proper security precautions. ... (more)

Prepaid debit cards replace unemployment checks in Indiana -- The state of Indiana has replaced its unemployment checks with prepaid Visa debit cards. ... (more)

Learn how to avoid the latest credit card identity theft scam -- Learn how to avoid a possible identity theft scam. ... (more)

RFID credit cards ripe for theft -- Two UMass computer scientists demonstrated how easy it could be for credit card thieves to grab information from no-swipe credit cards that employ RFID technology. ... (more)

Interchange fees debated at Senate hearing -- Interchange fees looked at by senate as a downfall for merchants. Read more at CreditCards.com ... (more)

Merchant Account Services: Paynet Systems provides credit card processing -- Businesses can obtain credit card processing and other merchant account services from Paynet Systems. Learn more at CreditCards.com ... (more)

Bank Loans vs. Credit Cards: Housing market turns to credit -- A slowdown in the U.S. housing market could have consumers spending more on credit cards. ... (more)

Bank of America to introduce "Bank of Opportunity" ad campaign -- Top U.S. credit card issuer Bank of America is prepared to kick off a new advertising campaign, featuring the tagline "Bank of Opportunity." ... (more)

Study shows Hispanics credit card use and debt are rising -- A new credit card study shows credit card use and revolving debt among Hispanics has grown since 2001. ... (more)

Credit card usage in the USA is growing -- Learn about the trends in credit card debt, scores and usage and what's affecting them. ... (more)

Wells Fargo customers could be next to get credit cards without Social Security numbers -- Wells Fargo offers unsecured credit cards for those without Social Security numbers. ... (more)

Credit scores impact auto insurance rates -- Consumers' use of credit cards affects not only their credit scores, but their insurance premiums as well. ... (more)

Credit card issuers respond to Senate inquiry -- Credit card issuers Bank of America, Citi, and Chase responded to a U.S. Senate panel's tough look at their industry. ... (more)

Credit card pilot program from Bank of America removes SSN requirement -- In a piece in The Wall Street Journal, Bank of America's Chairman and CEO defended the pilot program which markets credit cards to consumers without Social Security numbers in the L.A. area. ... (more)

Capital One credit card offers straightforward cash back program -- The Capital One No Hassle Cash Rewards credit card offers a more straightforward cash back program than some other credit cards. ... (more)

Pay via cell phone with new MasterCard credit card application -- ViVOtech plans to put a MasterCard credit card application inside cell phones for tap-and-go payments. ... (more)

Citi Cards stops practice of universal default -- Does universal default affect you? Citi Cards stops universal default on its Citi-branded credit cards. ... (more)

Learn more about the prepaid Visa RushCard -- Get your prepaid Visa RushCard developed by Russell Simmons at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

All about the Baby Phat Prepaid Visa card -- Baby Phat fan? Apply for a prepaid Visa Baby Phat Rushcard at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Apply For Credit Card without a Social Security Number -- Bank of America has started offering credit cards to individuals with no Social Security numbers, opening the way for illegal immigrants to gain a credit history. ... (more)

BofA offers two WorldPoints cards with similar benefits -- The Bank of America Visa Signature WorldPoints Rewards card and the Bank of America World MasterCard with WorldPoints card are two credit cards that offer very similar benefits. ... (more)

Visa Credit Cards Rewards: Earn points toward financial rewards -- You can earn points for future purchases with Visa credit cards rewards. ... (more)

Wyndham Rewards Mastercard: Earn free stays at hotels -- PRESS RELEASE: Start using the Wyndham Rewards Mastercard, and earn free nights at hotels ... (more)

Bank of America Platinum Plus Visa Card offers low interest and more -- The Bank of America Platinum Plus Visa Card is a low interest credit card that also provides cardholders with other great features. ... (more)

Boston meters stop taking credit cards -- Boston discontinued credit card and debit card payments at its new parking meters, after city officials learned that their minimum purchase requirement of $2 with plastic violated Visa and MasterCard rules. ... (more)

Top Credit Card Issuer is Chase Bank -- Chase Bank surpassed Bank of America and became the top credit card issuer in the USA. ... (more)

Credit card tax payments provide security for taxpayers -- Learn the benefits of credit card tax payments including transaction security and e-filing. ... (more)

Discover card: Better competition apart from Morgan Stanley -- Morgan Stanley has announced its plan to spin off the Discover card, allowing it to compete more independently. ... (more)

Consumer debt could impact holiday retail sales -- Credit card debt impacting your holiday spending? You're not alone. ... (more)

Credit card use and its impact check writing -- The convenience and speed of credit card use has spurred a decline in check writing. ... (more)

Credit card vending machines: Dallas snacks can be purchased with plastic -- Credit card usage has expanded into new areas, including vending machines in Dallas. ... (more)

Tax season is a popular time for mail thieves to steal W-2s from mailboxes -- Tax season is a popular time for mail thieves to steal W-2s, which can allow them to open credit card and other accounts in the victim's name. ... (more)

4 ways to improve your credit score (without going crazy) -- Perfect credit scores are not necessary to get lenders' best rates. ... (more)

Senate considers credit card industry reforms -- Critics are focusing on credit card industry practices they believe are a danger to consumers, although Capital One and others have risen to the credit card industry's defense. ... (more)

Citibank continues partnership with AT&T -- Citibank and AT&T have extended their relationship to continue offering AT&T credit cards. ... (more)

History of JPMorgan Chase Bank -- Chase has become one of the top U.S. credit card issuers through a series of mergers and acquisitions. ... (more)

Credit card reward points could disappear without notice -- Don't sit on points too long. Rewards programs, while popular, last only as long as the company says they do. ... (more)

MasterCard to sponsor World Cup soccer after legal battle -- Judge rules that MasterCard wins their eight year bid over Visa to sponsor soccer tournament. ... (more)

Personalized Credit Card: New card designs and styles -- Innovations in style and design allow consumers to have their own personalized credit card. ... (more)

Charity Credit Card: Donate your credit card rewards to worthy causes -- The Enlightenment Card from Visa allows users to make the world a better place while charging purchases. ... (more)

Bank of America unveils new affinity banking programs -- Bank of America is set to build on its successful stable of affinity credit cards associated with universities, charities and other organizations by offering deposit ... (more)

Credit card lawsuit: Visa and MasterCard penalized over debit card fee -- Visa and Mastercard to pay government in a lawsuit settlement. ... (more)

Credit cards for small businesses are becoming industry specific -- Credit card companies are trying to tap the small bu