Credit Cards

Credit cards and gambling: The Web as both the problem and the solution

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

We have written extensively about the issue of online gambling, since the most popular way to pay for that habit has been credit cards. A 2006 federal law, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, placed the onus on credit card issuers to make sure their cards weren't being used for online gambling. Now, in a twist, California Attorney General (and gubernatorial candidate) Jerry Brown has announced that his office will start using the Web to prevent problem gamblers from going into cardrooms. Instead of being part of the problem, his office is trying to make the Web part of the solution to problem gambling.

Thanks, Elvis, for a hunka hunka carnival love

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

My thanks to Jason over at the blog Live Real, Now, for including the blog post by our editorial intern, Cara Henis, in the 270th edition of the Carnival of Personal Finance. I got a kick out of the carnival's theme: Elvis is dead.

Possible company sale shouldn't worry Barnes & Noble gift cardholders

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

News that book retailer Barnes & Noble may be up for sale shouldn't send consumers speeding to the nearest store, gift card in hand. Barnes & Noble announced on Aug. 3 that it was considering a possible sale of the company. But a potential change in ownership won't leave its gift cards valueless, Barnes & Noble and an independent expert say."The fact that the board is exploring strategic alternatives has nothing to do with the day-to-day business," says Mary Ellen Keating, the company's senior vice president of corporate communications. Barnes & Noble is continuing to accept its gift cards as usual, Keating says.

Brother, can you spare a swipe? Contactless card reading guitar unveiled

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

, Living with credit 316 New , interesting products 78 Research , regulation , industry reports 200 Rewards 32 Protecting yourself 130 The fine print 51 Credit card miscellany 329 Print Email Brother , can you spare a swipe Contactless card reading guitar unveiled Tyler Metzger August 30, 2010 New , interesting products Have you ever had the strong urge to give your hard-earned money to someone strumming Dust in the Wind out of key at a vacant intersection Well , neither have I . But London-based issuer Barclays hopes our apprehension will disappear with its new approach to street charity : a wireless , touchless , credit card accepting guitar . The financial institution unveiled the instrument Thursday , Aug . 26, in London during a publicity stunt promoting its contactless technology .

Jennifer Aniston, Liv Tyler alleged victims of card fraud

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

, Living with credit 315 New , interesting products 77 Research , regulation , industry reports 200 Rewards 32 Protecting yourself 130 The fine print 51 Credit card miscellany 329 Print Email Jennifer Aniston , Liv Tyler alleged victims of card fraud Tyler Metzger August 19, 2010 Living with credit Jennifer Aniston's former beautician could be doing the hair and nails of a different type of clientele if convicted of stealing credit card information from a variety of A-list celebrities . Maria Gabriella Perez , owner of the Beverly Hills salon Chez Gabriela Studio , was arrested Wednesday and accused of fraudulently charging hundreds of thousands of dollars on cards belonging to Aniston , Liv Tyler , Anne Hathaway and Melanie Griffith , according to court documents and news sources Records

Emily's list: Hurricane season edition

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

: Living with credit 316 New , interesting products 78 Research , regulation , industry reports 200 Rewards 32 Protecting yourself 130 The fine print 51 Credit card miscellany 329 Print Email Emily's list : Hurricane season edition Emily Starbuck Gerson August 25, 2010 Living with credit Despite officially starting June 1, hurricane season is about to kick into high gear . nbsp While meteorologists have scaled back their predictions a wee bit , there are still some major storms coming our way , a ccording to Reuters There is double the chance this year that a hurricane will hit the U.S . Northeast Coast , making the area just as risky as Florida and the Gulf . Coast The Weather Service International has predicted that we will see 18 named storms , 10 of which will go on to become

Emily's list: 'You're Cut Off' edition

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

: Living with credit 312 New , interesting products 77 Research , regulation , industry reports 198 Rewards 32 Protecting yourself 129 The fine print 51 Credit card miscellany 327 Print Email Emily's list : You're Cut Off' edition Emily Starbuck Gerson August 13, 2010 Living with credit This summer , VH1 aired a new reality show called You're Cut Off It starred nine rich and spoiled ladies who go through princess rehab to teach them how to be responsible and value their families' money that they spend so carelessly . I know about it because a girl I grew up with was one of the nine girls , and when I found out she was on it , I DVR'ed the whole season I'm not naming names I finished watching it a few days ago , and I'm still in . shock The funniest part is that the girls' parents were all

Emily's list: More airline fees edition

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

: Living with credit 316 New , interesting products 77 Research , regulation , industry reports 200 Rewards 32 Protecting yourself 130 The fine print 51 Credit card miscellany 329 Print Email Emily's list : More airline fees edition Emily Starbuck Gerson August 20, 2010 Living with credit I don't know why I'm surprised when airlines add new fees . Sadly , it seems like there is no end in sight . The baggage fees instituted a few years ago when the airline industry was suffering were what kicked off the trend , and since then , airlines have begun charging for the likes of blankets , soft drinks and paper tickets , not to mention the fees incurred for redeeming frequent flier rewards . There have also been rumors about budget airlines , such as Ryanair , charging to use the toilets , but

Super Bowl ticket blog goes to the carnival

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

In my latest blog, Susie got her Super Bowl tickets. But now, I get to hang out with Beyonce and Gwen Stefani -- sort of.

What's driving more women to seek debt help?

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:15

My boss forwarded me a study called "Women, Debt and the Recession," and asked if I'd like to blog about the topic. Maybe he thinks I know a thing or two about being a female in debt and weathering the recession. Seeing as I just wrote about my new frugality (or lack thereof), perhaps I would have some insight about the rather startling statistics revealed in this recent CareOne Debt Relief Services' survey.

Las Vegas mortgage delinquencies level off

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

One of the most troubled housing markets in the country might have hit bottom several months ago.

More Americans reduce debt and close credit card accounts

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Over the past year and a half, Americans have been able to successfully reduce their debt, but it seems that now they are also closing out their credit card accounts when they do.

New financial reforms will be needed to help consumer confidence

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

While the financial reforms have helped to repair some of the money troubles consumers have encountered as a result of their banks' costly policies and fees, some hard feelings apparently still linger.

Consumer prices rose slightly in July

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Americans paid slightly more for their purchases in July than they did the month before.

Many find it difficult to refinance mortgages

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

While mortgage rates are at or near record lows, many consumers might see this as the perfect time to refinance their home loans.

Foreclosures hit Latinos hardest in California

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

While many consumers across the country are struggling to make their mortgage payments from one month to another, Latinos are having more trouble doing so than others in California.

South Florida assessed property values expected to fall again

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Over the next few weeks, more than 1.75 million homeowners in South Florida will get their property tax notices in the mail, and many could be disappointed by what they find inside.

Consumers find it tough to refinance underwater mortgages

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Because many consumers across the country have found that the value of their home has slipped below what they paid for it in recent months, some have tried to seek a refinance. However, many quickly found that this was difficult.

Mortgage rates fall to record lows once again

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

For the fourth week in a row, mortgage rates dropped more or less across the board, and in doing set another new record low.

Foreclosures rise 4 percent in July

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Even as the housing market remains stagnant, the number of homes in some state of foreclosure rose in July.

Federal Housing Authority offers underwater homeowners refinancing

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Over the past few years, as home values have dropped and strategic defaults have risen, many homeowners may have tried to find a way to relieve their worries without abandoning their homes. Now thanks to the Federal Housing Authority, they might be able to do that.

Wells Fargo to Pay Back $203M in Overdraft Fees

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

If you've been hit by bank overdraft fees lately, you might think that last week's decision against Wells Fargo by a California judge will offer you some immediate relief. Unfortunately, you'd be wrong.

Your Misspent Student Loan Checks

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

The temptation to misuse student loan money is huge. The problem comes later, after graduation. Do you really want to be in your 40s, paying 8-percent interest on beers and shoes you bought in college?

Unemployment rate remains unchanged in July

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

While there were a number of signs that the economy improved in the first month of the year's second half, the nationwide employment situation wasn't one of them.

Divorce costs can further strain couples' finances

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Studies have shown that debt can play a large role in the reasons couples may decide to part ways and start divorce proceedings. But what some may not realize is that the fees and expenses associated with this process can further plunge divorcing spouses into a state of financial strain that may take years to overcome.

Americans may be shunning banks

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

A small percentage of American consumers are currently considered underbanked or unbanked, but new reports reveal that this number may grow as more individuals turn their backs on traditional banking.

A strong credit score can lead to a lower mortgage rate

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Weak economy or not, most consumers are usually looking for ways to lower their daily expenses in order to save more money, pay down other debts and simply have more funds at their disposal. Carrying a mortgage loan is one of the highest expenses a consumer may have during their lives, but there are ways to negotiate a lower rate and save money.

NY encourages banks to provide more modifications to consumers

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

As much of the country is facing the real estate crisis and Americans are in danger of losing their homes to foreclosure, lawmakers in New York are pushing banks to grant more mortgage loan modifications to struggling consumers. In an effort to steer banks toward providing more aid to delinquent borrowers, New York Senator Jeff Klein and Brooklyn City Council member Brad Lander plan to unveil measures that will make foreclosures more unappealing to banks and lending institutions, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Wells Fargo now asks essay question on mortgage application

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

A major U.S. mortgage lender is being accused of illegally asking consumers to write an essay to qualify for a home loan.

Older Americans file bankruptcy more than younger generations

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Although younger to middle-aged individuals appear to carry more debt - including student and mortgage loans, credit card balances and auto financing - a new report reveals that more older Americans are filing for bankruptcy. According the American Bankruptcy Institute Journal, individuals aged 55 and older are becoming the fastest-growing demographic to file.

Existing home sales fall below expectations

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

The latest data reveals that the number of Americans completing purchases of existing homes fell starkly below economists' expectations in July, according to the National Association of Realtors.

North Carolina foreclosures expected to set record

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Foreclosure is an increasing problem all over the country as homeowners run into money problems and find themselves unable to make the monthly payments on their home loans. But in North Carolina, the problem has become so bad that it's expected to set records.

Mortgage relief program falling short of its goals

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

The Obama administration made it a point to help homeowners whose mortgages had slipped into foreclosure, but it seems as though the goals it initially set are unreachable.

Health credit cards deemed 'economic burden' to consumers

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

The recent launch of healthcare credit cards by a number of institutions has led New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo to begin an investigation into the practices of many medical insurers, doctors and issuers. Believing that these products do not act in the best interest of patients, Cuomo is speaking out about the benefits and incentives physicians receive by encouraging citizens to secure these cards.

Economy forces more consumers to make hardship withdrawals from 401(k)s, Fidelity reports

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

An unprecedented number of Americans are facing unemployment and large amounts of debt relating to credit cards, mortgage loans and medical expenses, leaving them to exhaust all of their financial options to stay afloat. This now includes making hardship withdrawals from their retirement accounts. According to a new report from Fidelity Investments, a record-breaking number of its customers are borrowing against their 401(k)s.

More renters report they do not want to own a home

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Despite record low rates and inflation, a large percentage of renters say they do not plan to take on a mortgage loan - ever - suggesting that it is no longer part of the American Dream.

Veterans less likely to run into delinquency

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

While many homeowners across the country are still struggling to pay their mortgage on time every month, new figures show that this is less of a problem for those who have served in the U.S. Military.

Consumers say they are more satisfied with their credit cards

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Americans said they were slightly happier with their credit card lenders this year, marking the first time since 2007 that this was the case, and rebounding from an all-time low seen in 2009.

More consumers refinanced their mortgages last week

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

As mortgage rates hit lows never before seen, more consumers scrambled to refinance and save themselves some money.

FTC may improve language of credit report notices

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Most Americans understand the importance of their credit history on securing loans, competitive rates and even employment. Given the weight that a consumer's credit report and rating carry, individuals should ensure that they fully understand how scoring works and how to dispute negative or inaccurate information listed in their file.

New program may reduce credit card debt for some Americans

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Overspending and exceeding a consumer's limit on their credit card transactions can be a very costly mistakes, as most issuers tack on overlimit fees. For many Americans trying to keep track of bills, mortgage payments and purchases that may not have cleared yet, keeping track of their overall versus available balance may be easier said than done. But a new program expected to be launched by Citigroup may give consumers better control over their spending by allowing them to set their cut-off limits.

Mortgage delinquencies fell in the second quarter

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

It seems that consumers are now more capable of making their monthly mortgage payments than they were several months ago.

Fed unveils new rules to protect homebuyers

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Following the subprime mortgage crisis that was largely the result of predatory practices, the government has been adding layers of protections to the current lending rules. The Federal Reserve Board has unveiled its latest set of provisions that will help prevent homebuyers from securing a mortgage loan riddled with additional costs.

Retirement communities burdened by slow economy

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Unemployment and high rates of mortgage loan defaults have dominated the news in recent months, but the effects of the slow economy are beginning to take their toll on other demographics. As Americans are living longer, a large number of elderly individuals rely on long-term or "continuing care" retirement communities that provide medical assistance to their residents. But as the economy is teetering back and forth, some of these communities are in financial trouble.

Consumer sentiment exceeds analyst expectations, but still low

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Americans report having a slightly more optimistic outlook on economic recovery this month as opposed to July, as evidenced by a recent poll. The Thompson Reuters/University of Michigan survey shows that consumer sentiment surpassed analyst expectations and indicates that Americans are becoming somewhat more confident that the market is recovering.

Americans seek out clever ways to avoid foreclosure

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

As foreclosure filings are expected to grow to 3 million by the end of the year, more Americans are desperately seeking out ways to make money and save their homes. Most are making a last ditch effort to stave off losing their homes after finding that their income, debt or credit scores disqualify them from debt relief through refinancing and loan modifications.

Bank foreclosures climb 38 percent since 2009

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

New data reveals that the number of homes lost to bank foreclosures has risen since last year, demonstrating that the real estate market still has a long road to sustainable recovery. According to a study by real estate website Bank Foreclosure Sale, mortgage loan defaults resulting in bank-owned repossessions have climbed 5 percent during the second quarter of 2010, marking a 38 percent increase from one year ago.

Mortgage applications rise slightly this week

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

The number of consumers that filed for either a new mortgage or a refinance of their old one rose only slightly last week, despite mortgage rates hitting all-time lows.

More boomers seeking employment have trouble finding jobs

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

The national unemployment rate is not just affecting recent graduates and middle-aged Americans, but also the baby boomer generation, according to a new report. Many boomers who have decided to go back to work - either to recoup assets lost during the financial meltdown or to supplement their retirement - are finding it increasingly difficult to find a job, USA Today reports.

Generation Y finds new financial troubles

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

The economic crisis isn't just impacting those with mortgages and children in college. A new survey has found that consumers between the ages of 18 and 34 years old are having financial difficulties of their own.

When eliminating credit card debt, age plays a role in decision making

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Many consumers may believe that years of experience with credit cards is the most important factor when it comes to making sound financial decisions, but that isn't necessarily true.

Debt related to student loans trumps credit cards

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Although credit cards have been in the news lately with regard to new legislation, charge off rates and delinquencies, a new report shows that student loans may be more of a financial threat. New data from the Federal Reserve Board reveals that the amount of student loan debt Americans carry is now higher than their credit card debt.

Report shows one-fifth of U.S. mortgages underwater

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

Many Americans who are struggling to maintain their mortgage obligations are discovering that home values have plummeted so deeply that they now owe more on their loan than their home is actually worth. A recent report conducted by real estate information website Zillow reveals that more than 20 percent of mortgages in the U.S. are currently underwater.

More collections agencies erroneously placing debt under incorrect name

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

In recent years, debt collection agencies have been overrun with unpaid medical, credit card and mortgage bills. But in their haste to contact those who carry an unpaid balance and resolve the issue, more agencies are making colossal mistakes by placing the negative information on the wrong person's credit file, essentially dragging down their credit score.

Consumer credit declined in June, report shows

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:05

The newest report to be released by the Federal Reserve reveals that consumer credit declined by $1.3 billion in the month of June, suggesting that more Americans are weaning themselves off of credit to focus on savings and reduced spending. Economists initially projected a $5.3 billion decline. Revolving credit-card debt alone dropped by 6.7 percent to $4.48 billion, accounting for the lowest level since 2005.

The Basics of Using Credit Cards

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:02

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison The Basics of Using Credit Cards August 21, 2010 Every store , big , medium or small in enterprise accepts credit cards . Even though many financial advisors warn that the credit card encourages over spending , people continue to prefer using a credit card to shopping with cash even departmental stores and supermarkets encourage the use of credit cards . To use the credit card to maximum benefit , one must understand how a credit card works . Given that there are several types of credit cards in the market today , it is quite a task understanding how one differs from the other in function , benefits and general utility . The process begins with obtaining a credit card account

Traveling with Credit Cards makes life easier

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:02

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison Traveling with Credit Cards makes life easier August 27, 2010 Using a credit card to pay for a holiday or business trip is highly recommended on account of the high level of efficiency it affords . Many people , these days only use credit cards while traveling . The advantages should be fairly obvious . Credit Card Companies also encourage the use of credit cards fro travel . There are many globally recognized credit card Companies . Armed with one of these , there need be no worry that one may run out of money in the middle on the . trip The advantages of traveling with a credit card To begin with , one need not worry about carrying around huge sums of money . There are

Securing your Credit Reports Enhances Account Protection

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:02

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison Securing your Credit Reports Enhances Account Protection August 15, 2010 Your identity is very important because other people might use it against you . The crime of identity fraud is increasing more and more each day and victims are left without any chance of getting back what has been illegally taken from them . The worse scenario is that victims suffer from the traces of fraud and their names are hanged in misery together with financial burdens which needs to be settled . Victims have no choice except to face the challenge and scour for ways to rise once again and clear their names . Credit reports are good ways to trace instances of fraudulent financial activities . It is

Understanding the concept of offering rewards for spending on credit cards

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:02

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison Understanding the concept of offering rewards for spending on credit cards August 29, 2010 A credit card reward is a benefit provided by credit card companies to their customers . Credit rewards usually comprise points that one can gather every time the credit card is used . There are several forms of credit card rewards such as cash back rewards , reward points and other incentives . The extent of the reward is dependent on the usage of the card . Most credit card companies offer rewards for every single time the card is used within the time period of the . offer The idea behind such offers is to motivate credit card holders to use their cards more often . Of the various

Reasons you should stay away from credit cards with rewards

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:02

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison Reasons you should stay away from credit cards with rewards August 17, 2010 It is not surprising to see people bending over backwards to apply for the rewards credit cards They are lured towards them with the promises of air miles and cash back offers being made . In this process , they fail to realize that these are just small freebies being given away by credit card lenders who end up making millions of dollars . There is more to it than meets the eye when it comes to rewards credit cards . There are some underlying truths that each of us should know before we make this . choice First of all , the credit cards that carry seemingly irresistible rewards come with expensive

The Integral Role of Credit Histories

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:02

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison The Integral Role of Credit Histories August 23, 2010 One cannot undervalue the importance of a Credit History . Since Banks discovered the worth of this recording system , it has become the most crucial determinant of every transaction that a customer has with his or her bank . The Concept of a credit History is therefore a very integral part on modern day . banking The most popular query that customers have is how far a good credit history can take you . The credit History is a sum total of a person’s entire financial transactions , across banks and other financial agencies . A person’s credit history can be obtained from the place of their last finance related transaction

The ABCs of building good credit history

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:02

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison The ABCs of building good credit history August 19, 2010 The credit history has a very vital role to play in the life of a person . almost every aspect of life , including a home and a job is tied to this important document . Building a good credit history is a step by step process that requires you to put in conscious effort at every stage of life . while this may seem to be a tough task , it is not definitely impossible and will be worth the effort you put . in First of all , if you are intent on building a good credit history , opt for just one credit card and manage it wisely . One of the main reasons for people to fall prey to bad credit is the fact that they opt for

The Interesting Journey of Credit Cards

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:02

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison The Interesting Journey of Credit Cards August 25, 2010 It is an interesting point to note that the term credit card’ was first used in a novel a novel structured around utopia . Looking Backward is a novel of great literary importance . Written by American Novelist , Edward Bellamy , in 1887, the novel tells the story of a young man born in late 19th century America , who falls asleep and wakes up a hundred and thirty years later to find his world completely changed . Like any other novel attempting to define the world in futuristic terms , this novel also lays claims to many erstwhile unheard of concepts . One such was the Credit card . After finding mention in the novel ,

How Credit Card Balance Transfers Work

Updated: 2010-08-31 22:05:02

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison How Credit Card Balance Transfers Work August 11, 2010 A lot of people are caught up with piles of financial obligations because they have managed their finances badly . They failed to settle their accounts on time while earning huge interest for the money they spent ahead of time . Financial failures are not hopeless case scenarios but when neglected will clearly be depicted in credit histories and become primary reasons for low credit scores . This is something alarming because low credit ratings will continue to shut the door for better and new credit opportunities . One of the ways used by financial creditors to entice consumers to avail or open credit accounts is the

Friendly Face of the New Credit Card Statement

Updated: 2010-08-31 17:00:19

Home Credit Cards Blog Credit Card News Friendly Face of the New Credit Card Statement Friendly Face of the New Credit Card Statement Tuesday , August 31st , 2010 The CARD act of 2009 imposed many new rules for credit card companies . These rules imposed by the act were designed to force the credit card companies to ensure that cardholders are informed of their rights , aware of charges and able to easily make choices and changes to their accounts . With these changes came a friendly new credit card statement equip with all necessary information that will now be readily available to the . cardholder One of the common problems for cardholders prior to the card act was the difficulty reading and understanding the credit card statement . The pages of small print and legal terms that filled

Fringe Lending and Consumer Welfare

Updated: 2010-08-31 15:32:15

Big Announcement From Apple Inc (AAPL) Tomorrow Will Be...

Updated: 2010-08-31 07:06:00

Above: A cool, super old print ad for an iMac G3 (remember those?!). What new products or services will Apple Inc (AAPL) announce at its major event on Wednesday, September 1? We've made our own predictions, which you can read right here. Or you can share your own predictions about what Apple may launch in the comments section directly below. UPDATE: I also think the company may launch an updated version of its iPod Nano media player, in addition to the other predictions about Apple Inc's (AAPL) event we made yesterday afternoon. For entertainment purposes only; information provided may be...

Explaining the Housing Bubble

Updated: 2010-08-31 05:18:31

Driskill Hotel Patrons Victimized by Card Security Breach

Updated: 2010-08-30 14:00:56

Home Credit Cards Blog Card Security Driskill Hotel Patrons Victimized by Card Security Breach Driskill Hotel Patrons Victimized by Card Security Breach Monday , August 30th , 2010 Credit card security is always an issue when transacting over the internet . This new twist on an old standby has people up in arms in Austin , Texas . Credit card numbers from restaurant guests at a local downtown hotel were stolen when enterprising fraudsters hacked into the hotel’s accounting . network The hotel has fixed the security breach but it is not known exactly how many victims there are but local law enforcements have estimated that up to 700 credit card numbers have been stolen Numbers from the guests of the Driskill Hotel restaurant were stolen along with patrons who stayed at one of the

Welcome to New York; the Bankruptcy Court is Below the Museum

Updated: 2010-08-30 05:26:27

State-sanctioned Federal Bankruptcy

Updated: 2010-08-27 19:07:48

Citi Forward Card Targets a Younger Market

Updated: 2010-08-27 14:00:54

Home Credit Cards Blog New Card Offers Citi Forward Card Targets a Younger Market Citi Forward Card Targets a Younger Market Friday , August 27th , 2010 The issues surrounding of credit is such a hot topic these days . The ever changing regulations and the rise of consumer debt create constant controversy over the use of consumer credit . The use and abuse of the credit cards run both ends of the spectrum . Some spend without limit and end up in debt . Others who fear the instability of the economy may have taken a hard stop approach to liberal card use out of fear . Either scenario poses a threat to the credit card industry that will force card companies to target new and untapped markets to ensure . survival Several factors have had a significant impact on why , how and how often

Hawkins' Fringe Banking Premise is that Payday and Title Loans are Short-term: If Only it Were True

Updated: 2010-08-26 20:08:01

Fringe Banking and Financial Distress: Argument and Critique

Updated: 2010-08-25 14:29:28

How To Spot Fake Gift Cards

Updated: 2010-08-25 14:00:18

Home Credit Cards Blog Card Security How To Spot Fake Gift Cards How To Spot Fake Gift Cards Wednesday , August 25th , 2010 Fraud charges are pending after a serious credit card fraud operation was uncovered in Gilbert , Arizona . Not just limited to credit cards the man and woman team made up numerous credit cards as well as gift cards . It is thought that this operation was more than a local . ring Fraud investigators reveal that initial accounts may reach into the tens of thousands of dollars . The financial losses to department stores such as Macy’s continue to escalate as the investigation uncovers more fraud victims . Home Depot also seems to be a target of the fraudulent . cards The two involved , Christina Smith , 37, and Solomon Williams , 36, were found out after an astute

There Is a Jury Trial for that Proof of Claim

Updated: 2010-08-24 22:01:31

What You Need to Know About New Card Offers

Updated: 2010-08-24 14:00:14

Home Credit Cards Blog New Card Offers What You Need to Know About New Card Offers What You Need to Know About New Card Offers Tuesday , August 24th , 2010 Since the new federal regulations on credit cards went into effect , consumers are re-evaluating the credit card accounts they already have . Many are looking to switch out old accounts for more up-to-date . deals Credit card offers are everywhere in the mail box , in your email , and all over media print advertising . Major credit card companies are working hard to bring in new customers since more people are cutting back on their credit accounts . If you are considering a new offer , there are some things you need to know and should consider before signing on . It may have been a few years since you’ve researched new credit card

A Code Head-Scratcher

Updated: 2010-08-23 23:41:24

Portrait of California Foreclosures

Updated: 2010-08-23 15:11:29

Business Credit Cards Still Beneficial for Small Businesses

Updated: 2010-08-23 14:00:40

Home Credit Cards Blog Tips Advice Business Credit Cards Still Beneficial for Small Businesses Business Credit Cards Still Beneficial for Small Businesses Monday , August 23rd , 2010 The theory of owning a small business used to be that you need to keep your business and personal finances . separate This helps keep accounting accurate and allows the business itself to build it’s own credit history . With the recently enacted CARD act legislation , the benefits of business credit cards remain but with a few strong . caveats Why the Changes The CARD Act was devised to offer more consumer protection for credit card holders . Because card companies began inflating interest rates , lowering grace periods , and essentially charging any amount of fee to turn a profit after record defaults ,

Useful Tips to Enjoy Balance Transfer Cards

Updated: 2010-08-17 18:32:49

Credit Card Blog Credit Card Articles Home Online Credit Card Applications Best Credit Cards Credit Card Comparison Useful Tips to Enjoy Balance Transfer Cards August 13, 2010 There are a lot of benefits a consumer could get from balance transfer credit cards . One of these is the fact that they have the chance to improve their credit scores . Having the balance from old credit card transferred to a new one would create the impression that you are able to settle your account . Your credit history will show that you have paid off old accounts and you are responsible enough to be worthy of another credit opportunity . It is indeed advantageous for anyone to opt for balance transfers as it promotes long-term benefit . The improved credit history will build high FICO scores which are enough

Massive Fraud Ring Parlayed Small Charges Into Millions

Updated: 2010-08-12 17:00:55

Home Credit Cards Blog Card Security Massive Fraud Ring Parlayed Small Charges Into Millions Massive Fraud Ring Parlayed Small Charges Into Millions Thursday , August 12th , 2010 Having your credit card stolen is one thing but having your credit card subject to a slow bleed of petty card fees is another scam altogether . The Federal Trade Commission has uncovered a massive credit card fraud ring that parlayed small individual charges of 10 or less into millions of dollars in fraudulent . charges The latest in a well developed scheme of cyber crimes , the fraudsters would set up fake companies and put small charges , usually under 10, to legitimate credit cards The FTC identified that more than a million consumers were the victims and had charges put on their cards and their payments were

Study finds fewer new credit card accounts opened

Updated: 2010-08-11 17:26:39

As the nationwide recession got worse, it fundamentally altered the way consumers approached their credit card accounts over the last three years.

Some young adults considering bankruptcy to escape student loan debt

Updated: 2010-08-10 17:20:19

Tuition prices continue to increase each year, making it more expensive for young adults to get an education. To keep up with the rising costs, millions of college-bound students are forced to rely on student loans for financing.

Unemployment rate held steady in July

Updated: 2010-08-07 15:40:16

The recent jobless statistics released by the Department of Labor did not improve as expected by analysts, but instead held steady at 9.5 percent for July.

New Protection Measures for Credit Cards Announced by Federal Reserve

Updated: 2010-08-05 17:00:38

Home Credit Cards Blog Credit Card News New Protection Measures for Credit Cards Announced by Federal Reserve New Protection Measures for Credit Cards Announced by Federal Reserve Thursday , August 5th , 2010 In line with the CARD Act , the Federal Reserve announced the new rules this week . The new protection measures will go into effect August 22. The rules will be the final installment of the CARD Act and will cap late fees and help provide some relief from rate increases on credit cards The new rules : involve Late Payment Fees Most of the late payment fees on a credit card bill will be capped at 25. The fee can increase up to 35 if one of the last six payments you made was late or if the issuer can provide proof the costs justified a higher . fee Penalty Fees Penalty fees can not

Credit Card Defaults Declining for Capital One

Updated: 2010-08-04 17:00:10

Home Credit Cards Blog Credit Card News Credit Card Defaults Declining for Capital One Credit Card Defaults Declining for Capital One Wednesday , August 4th , 2010 Americans are still finding it hard to pay off their credit card debt but there is good news for some major card companies . One of the hardest hit companies , Capital One Financial Group , is reporting that default rates are declining The defaults are the credit card debts that have been written off by the bank because there is strong doubt the debts will never be paid back . The decline in defaults indicates that the economy is coming back and consumers are focusing on erasing debts . Delinquencies of 30 days were more fell in May and remain on the decline . While auto loans are not doing as well , the report of declining