Credit Card Central

Credit cards represent the principal source of unsecured debt for American families.  The most current survey is over a year old, and it placed total credit card debt at just under $650 billion.  One estimate places the current credit card debt at $950 billion!  That's $200 billion greater than the government's TARP bailout!

There are good cards and there are bad cards.  There are good cardholders and bad cardholders.  This section is designed to present a number of articles to help you manage the cards and debt that your family currently has.

Let us know if we have missed an issue that you think would be helpful!

• Credit Card Limits Slashed
  
  Credit Card issuers have slahed card holder's credit limits, sometimes below their existing balances triggering over limit fees. Is it legal? You bet.
• Chase Cut credit limit
  
  Chase cut my credit limit by $17,000. I got it back and you can to. If you had a Providian card you have to read this.
• Credit Card Bill of Rights Pros and Cons
  
  The new credit card Bill of Rights sounds like a good deal for the consumer but is it? Banks scramble to find new ways to replace revenue lost due to new regulations. How is this going to impact you and your credit?
• Poor Credit and Bad Credit Credit Cards
  
  Even if you have poor credit or bad credit there are still credit cards available to you. But check them out to make sure you understand the fees and terms.
• low interest rate credit card
  
  Low interest rate credit card offerings can look very attractive but read the fine print. Your low rate may disappear with one small slip up. Make sure you look for these terms before you sign up.
• Credit Cards and Kids
  
  Kids are getting Credit Cards but they are not being taught how to use them wisely. America is growing another generation of illiterate consumers. What can be done?
• Debit Cards
  
  Debit cards offer a safer and more flexible alternative to check cashing stores. Accepted like a credit card the debit card can be used to get cash, shop and pay bills offline or online. Great for people who want to keep their bank in their wallet.
• Store Cards
  
  Store cards often offer great perks including a percentage off your first purchase.
• Balance Transfers
  
  Transfering balances can be an excellent way to save on the cost of your debt and improve your cash flow. Be careful who you chose. Zero balance deals usually are short lived and result in a much higher interest rate after the promotional term.
• Balance Transfer
  
  Balance transfer credit cards can save you money but they need careful management. Don't let the introductory period run out and get stuck with a high APR. Here are some tips for maximizing your benefits.
• Credit Cardholder Bill of Rights
  
  The House just passed HR 627 the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights, but does it have teeth or is it a paper tiger. Let's take a look.
• Kids Credit Card
  
  Should your kid have a credit card? There are advantages and disadvantages. You have to co-sign so you make the decision.
• Reduce Credit Card Interest Rate
  
  Negotiate your way to a lower credit card interest rate. It's not as difficult as it may sounnd. Negotiating can significantly reduce credit card rates.