5 Ways to Prevent Online Credit Card Theft

With increasing frequency and intensity it's happening and your credit is at risk. The attacks are getting more and more sophisticated and the thieves are becoming more widespread. They are working hard to stay a step ahead of law enforcement and they are largely successful. Your money, your credit, and your identity are at risk of being compromised by online credit card theft.

Did you know that more than 15 million people per year are victims of identity theft? Did you know that it takes an average of 600 hours of work for you to recover from identity theft? Did you know that online credit card theft costs our nation 500 million per year?

It's clear that your identity and credit are at risk and the only way to protect it is to take actions on your own part. Here are five ways that will help you not fall victim to online credit card theft:

Only buy from companies with an actual mailing address- Websites come and go all the time and because of that, it is very easy for a scam to be executed and your money stolen and the website shut down very quickly. Businesses that sell merchandise have addresses. You should also verify this address.

Enter your credit card number in to secure websites only- Secure websites always start with HTTPS rather than HTTP. Your internet browser will also have a picture of a lock or some other graphic that will show you that you are in a secure environment.

Say no to work at home schemes- A lot of people are looking for work at home, get rich quick schemes and they are willing to give their credit card number to anybody promising quick riches. Online credit card theft often happens on the websites of thieves playing to the emotions of the average person.

Don't give your credit card information as a response to an e-mail. No company will ask you to provide your credit card number through an e-mail. If a company e-mails you pointing you to a website to pay for something and it could be legitimate, don't click on the link. Instead, go to the website and log in to your account.

Get an online identity theft prevention service. Online credit card theft can be prevented by paying a small monthly fee for identity monitoring. A company that you know and trust like Equifax is the perfect place to get this service.

The thieves are going to keep attacking and you may be next. At the very least, an attack would be less than convenient. At worst, it may wipe out your child's college savings that you have contributed to for years or your retirement money. It's easy to prevent by enrolling in a protection service like Equifax.

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Easy to Get Credit Cards - Get Cash Fast

Need easy to get credit cards to fix your finances? Need money fast but unsecured credit lines declining you at every turn? Try using easy to get credit cards to improve your credit score and get back on track to application approval easy street. With easy qualifications and flexible credit programs there are many offers you can qualify for easily. Let's take a look.

When it comes to credit cards for people with bad credit there are two types that are extremely easy to get approved. Unsecured cards and secured cards both offer bad credit programs and each have their advantages. An unsecured card provides a credit line that is collateralized by reputation, meaning there are no deposited monies securing the money you borrow. Secured cards require a deposit to be held in security against your borrowed money.

As you can imagine, unsecured credit for people with bad credit are a little tougher to get approved, because of the higher risk associated to the lender. Even so, there are offers available for bad credit unsecured credit cards that are easy to get. They will generally have a lower credit line that is approved but are still an excellent way to begin to rebuild your credit score and reputation.

Secured credit cards, also known as prepaid cards, on the other hand require a deposit, or will begin the service with a debit on your approved credit line. This amount is held in security against your credit line and makes these prepaid cards easy to get approved. Versatile, and flexible, these prepaid cards are a great way to start if your credit is extremely bad and you need something easy to get approved.

Easy to get credit cards offer a series of advantages for a bad credit borrower, including:

• Help improve your credit score with on time payments
• Immediate infusion of cash for you to take care of your needs
Easy qualification standards and easy approvals
• All the traditional advantages of having a credit card for spending

If you have experienced financial hardship in the past, you shouldn't be made to feel as if the advantages of credit are lost for you. You can fill out a secure online application, get a fast approval, and have the spending power you need to provide financial cushion for emergencies. These easy to get credit cards are looking for honest individuals in need of a second chance.

We can help you get approved regardless of your credit history for Easy to Get Credit Cards and find financing top credit options for fast approvals. Let me help you make getting the money you deserve, easy, check out http://www.reallybadcreditoffers.com

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Get Your Money Back From A Credit Card Account Fast - Why It Matters

Are you looking for into cash back rewards credit cards, or a refund credit card? If so, keep in mind that sometimes there is a difference between earning the money and getting paid the money. Nowhere else is this difference more apparent than when trying to get your money back credit card reward credited to your account or cashed out. Why is that, you ask? Read on...

We will discuss the main differences between top cash back or money back credit cards that are available in the market place today. These main differences pertain to: The cashback percentage, The cashback threshold amount, and The cashback payout time delays. Except for the first one, they are all usually hidden deeply in the fine print. We will argue here that they are all equally important when picking the best cash back rewards card.

When you are done reading, you should have a solid feel for what to look for in a cash rewards credit card, and will be able to shop for one confidently.

The cashback reward percentage

Clearly, this is an important feature to look for when selecting what cash rewards card to apply for. After all, the cashback percentage determines how much money back reward you CAN get.

Most cash reward credit cards out there will give you 1% flat cashback on all purchases, and there are a few that will give you 1.25% or even 2%.

There are a few cards that will give you 5% cash back on certain basic categories. These categories will rotate each three months starting January the 1st. The categories include gas, travel, groceries, department stores, clothes and fashion, and restaurants.

The cashback threshold amount for a cash rewards credit card

This is the crucial quantity when it comes to getting your money back from a credit card. Why? Because until you reach that threshold amount of cashback, you will not see one red penny come back into your pocket, or be used for purchases of your choice.

I recall just last year when Discover Card had a cash back threshold amount of $20. Even though I never used the card that much, it was easy and quick to get to that threshold regularly. Then, I reduced my subscriptions paid through the Discover card, and Discover suddenly raised the cash back payout threshold to $50. I am now looking at thirty-some dollars sitting in my cash back box, waiting.

You clearly do not want to be in that position. Which brings me to the last important point, The cash back payout time delays.

The cash back payout delays

Some cash reward credit cards, notably Add It Up by Bank Of America, will have you wait up to 120 days(!) before you can access your cash back. In their small print, it says that the waiting time of 30 days is due to delayed reporting of purchases by merchants, and another 90 days is the charge back period for most merchants, to account for any returns. Bank of America won't take any risk on that, and will therefore make you wait 120 days, or four months(!) before you get your cash back. If you think about it, just like with the Discover card, the rules might be completely changed in the next 120 days!

So now that you know what to look for in a cash reward credit card, including what to look for in the small print, why not go ahead and pick the best money back credit card that best suits your spending habits and will give you the most money back in a shortest period of time!

Go to http://bestcashbackcard.org and find a cash back rewards card to best fit your style.

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Credit Card Collection Cases in Pennsylvania

Credit Card collection lawsuits are rapidly increasing in Pennsylvania. The volume of phone calls and emails that I receive on this topic is astounding. What I have discovered is that many people do not know their rights or how to handle these situations. I can say with certainty that contacting a Consumer Attorney is a very good move.

Credit card lawsuits are instituted on the basis that you have failed to pay (defaulted) on a credit account. There are a number of issues that the credit card company has to prove in order to prevail in a collection lawsuit against you. The following is a brief summary of some of those issues.

The credit card company first and foremost has to prove that you have established an account with them. This typically requires an agreement that is signed by you indicating that you requested an extension of credit or an account with the credit card company. As some credit applications are taken orally, the company must be able to prove that you requested an account by another means, perhaps by a recording of your phone application.

The next issue that they have to prove is that you agreed to certain terms and conditions, including rate of repayment and interest rate. This can again be done by means of a signed application or a recording of an oral application. The evidence must include proof that you agreed to those terms and that you agreed to pay a certain interest rate on the credit account.

Next, the credit card company must prove that you have made charges on the account. This may be accomplished by means of producing the monthly statements on your account.

Finally, the company must prove that you have failed to pay on the account as per your agreement (again, they must prove that you have defaulted). The date of the default is especially important, as they must bring the lawsuit against you within four (4) years of the date of the last default. This is what is referred to as the Statute of Limitations.

The credit card company can prevail on a collection case against you in Pennsylvania only if they can prove all of the foregoing. It is imperative that you respond in writing, preferably with the assistance of a good consumer attorney, when a credit card collection lawsuit is filed against you in Pennsylvania.

Greg Artim is a Consumer Attorney based in Pittsburgh, PA. He handles Lemon Law and Credit Card Defense matters in all of Pennsylvania. For more answers to your Pennsylvania Credit Card Law questions, please visit his website at Pennsylvania Credit Card Defense Attorney

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Credit Card Charge-Off - What Does It Mean and What Should You Do About It?

Have you been told by a creditor that your debt is about to "charge-off"? Did the bill collector make it sound like you will be ruined financially if you allow this catastrophe to happen? If you're behind on your bills, unable to keep up with payments on your credit cards and other debts, sooner or later you will hear a creditor representative threaten you with the dreaded "charge-off." So what is a charge-off anyway? Should you be worried? What are the consequences of this mysterious event?

I'll start by explaining what a charge-off is NOT. Because the term includes the word "charge," many people mistakenly think it has to do with cancellation of the account by the creditor. In other words, you can't "charge" anything on your credit card anymore. But it's not the same thing at all, and most banks will revoke charging privileges around 2-3 months before the deadline we're talking about here.

What banks and bill collectors call a "charge-off" is the point at which the creditor writes off the account balance as a "bad debt." It usually happens after six months of non-payment. After that, they no longer count it on their books as an asset. You still owe the money, of course. And they will certainly make continued attempts to collect it from you. But the creditor has been forced by the rules of accounting to zero out the debt on their financial ledgers. For causing this loss, they will punish you by placing a derogatory mark on your credit report. A "charge-off" is a serious negative mark, to be sure, but it is not the financial ruination that debt collectors would like to have you believe it is.

Should charge-offs be avoided if possible? Certainly. Does the prospect of a charge-off mean you should panic if you have no way to pay the bill? No! Is it the end of the world if the account has already charged off? No! Too often, bill collectors make a charge-off sound so bad, and they apply so much pressure, that people cave in and make payment commitments they cannot keep. Collectors usually demand payment via post-dated checks, and this frequently leads to bounced checks and even worse financial problems. Most of us are brainwashed by the banks and media on the subject of credit. Sure, good credit is important. But committing to payments you really can't afford just to preserve your credit is like watering the lawn while your house is burning down.

Here are a few simple rules to follow when trying to avoid a charge-off that hasn't happened yet:

* Don't be intimidated or threatened by pre-charge-off collection tactics. Keep a cool head and don't take it personally when collectors try to get under your skin.

* Call your creditor to find out the minimum payment necessary to avoid the charge-off, and subsequent payments to keep the account current going forward. Don't commit to this payment (or series of payments) unless you're sure you can follow through.

* Negotiate a lump-sum settlement at 50% or less if you have the resources, or a workout plan for monthly payments that you can live with.

* Do not allow bill collectors to talk you into using post-dated checks, or providing your checking account details over the telephone. Instead, make payments via cashier's check or money order.

* Do not make payments based on a verbal arrangement. Get the deal in writing and signed by a creditor representative who has authority to approve the workout plan.

What should you do if you simply don't have the money to rescue the account from charge-off, or if the account has already been charged off by the creditor?

* Take a deep breath and relax; the sky won't fall on your head just because you had a charge-off.

* Realize that you still have an opportunity to resolve the matter by dealing with the original creditor or the collection agency assigned to the account.

* Negotiate a lump-sum settlement with the creditor or collection agency. Again, aim for 50% or less, and ask for the charge-off to be deleted from your credit report as a condition of the settlement. (Most creditors will not agree to this, but it's worth asking anyway. Do be sure that they will update your credit report to show that the matter has been resolved and the account has been satisfied.)

* If you can't work out a deal with the collection agency assigned to your account, then wait until it goes to another agency! Eventually, it will either be assigned or sold to an outfit that you can deal with to get the matter cleared up.

To sum up, a charge-off is not the end of the world. It should certainly be avoided if possible, but not at the risk of making things worse by committing to payments you're not sure you can keep up with. Just remember that the creditor doesn't want to see a charge-off any more than you do, so use that knowledge to your advantage in working out a mutually acceptable arrangement. Get everything in writing, don't disclose your checking account details, and follow up to make sure the creditor reports the matter correctly on your credit report. You'll find that it's easier than you think to resolve a charge-off situation before it happens, or clean it up if it's already taken place.

Charles J. Phelan has been helping consumers become debt-free without bankruptcy since 1997. A former senior executive with one of the nation's largest debt settlement firms, he is the author of the Debt Elimination Success Seminar? a five-hour audio-CD course that teaches consumers how to choose between debt program options based on their financial situation. The course focuses on comprehensive instruction in do-it-yourself debt negotiation & settlement designed to save $1,000s. Personal coaching and follow-up support is included. Achieves the same results as professional firms for a tiny fraction of the cost. http://www.zipdebt.com

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3 Things That Can Help With Credit Card Debt - Proven to Work

Credit card debt can not only be hard on your mind, but it can also be hard on your wallet. Many of us have quite an amount of credit card debt. It can be very stressful and worrisome, and not only negatively affects the person, but the whole family too because it can get very depressive.

Help with this kind of debt - Ask for a lower interest rate!

Contact your credit card company/companies and ask for a lower interest rate. They don't really advertise this, but they can give you a lower interest rate for a yearly fee. The yearly fee is usually about $35 but it is totally worth it. In a lot of cases, this type of debt is hard to pay because of high interest rates. A lower interest rate can lighten the burden of your credit card debt and help you to pay it off quicker.

Cut up your credit cards

To pay off debt quicker, cutting up your credit cards is a good idea. This way you won't be able to spend more. Don't close your accounts as it will affect your credit rating. Not good. If you don't want to cut up your credit cards, then give them to someone you trust like a family member and ask them to put it in a safe spot and hold onto it for you. This way, if there is an emergency situation, it will be there to help.

The "Debt Snowball"

Using the debt snowball method can help you pay off your debt quicker as well. The debt snowball method is when you pay off the credit card with the smallest balance first. So the credit cards with the bigger balances should just get paid the minimum payment while you put extra on the one with the smallest balance. Then when the first one is paid off, you go on to the next one with the smallest balance and pay more than the minimum payment while the rest of the cards just get the minimum payment. Following this method will help get debt free quicker and won't affect your credit rating unlike debt relief programs and debt reduction services.

After starting to implement these 3 things, a good idea would be to try looking into credit debt management classes where you can learn about causes of debt and what you can do to avoid it happening again in the future.

If you are serious about getting out of debt... if you're SICK and TIRED of your current situation and things that DO NOT WORK for your favor, read my personal experience with debt relief programs - you'll change your life in a few months from now.

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Will Closing My Credit Card Account Affect My Credit Score?

People often think that if they pay off a credit card or don't use an existing card and then close the credit card account that they'll get a better credit rating or raise their credit score. This is not the case and here's why.

Let's say you have two cards or more from the same credit card company. You do not want to close these accounts.

Credit scores are determined by what types of credit you have and how long you've had your accounts open. They look at your payment history too. Even if you've had a credit card for 15 years or more and have an excellent credit rating, FICO score and credit history and you go ahead and close it, you can do a lot of damage to your credit score, and especially if it's the card you've had the longest and it's still an open account.

No matter how many credit cards you have, and no matter what your credit history is, no matter how many payments you've made on time or not on time, no matter how many late fees you've paid or not paid, it doesn't matter. The standard advice from the experts is NOT to close any credit card account.

If you are working on bad debt credit consolidation you don't want to close your accounts.

Let's say you are paying a high annual fee on a credit card and that may be reason enough to want to pay it off and close the account. Don't do it. First contact the credit card company and ask them if they will demote (use this word when you ask) your card to a card without any annual fee. That way you can still keep your credit rating and FICO score intact and you'll avoid paying the higher fee as well.

You can do this by calling the company's toll-free number. Ask for customer service.

In any event no matter what happens when you call customer service don't close the account. You can always ask for a supervisor and if you still don't get anywhere then ask for the customer retention department. This department is not common knowledge and they have a lot more power to give you what you want or need.

Of course you want to do everything in your power to keep your rating up and as high as possible. But getting rid of or closing a credit card account will only cause a possible drop in your rating or credit score. Make sure you get your copy of your personal free annual credit report online to check the status of your accounts.

For more tips, secrets, how to get a free credit report online instantly, fix your own credit and get help with credit counseling and credit disputes -get advice and help from a caring credit expert - go to http://www.FreeCreditReportInstantOnline.com

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Help With Credit Card Debt - How to Locate Legitimate Debt Relief Programs For Credit Card Help

If you want help with your credit card debt, you may decide to acquire the services of a legitimate debt relief company. These companies offer many programs, such as settlement, counseling, and consolidation that are designed to help you get out of debt. The tricky part comes from the fact that you want to find a good, legitimate, and proven company. With hundreds of choices, how do you know which one is the best?

Option #1 - Ask Those You Know

Debt is a major problem in America; there are millions of Americans who owe a lot of money to the credit card companies. Debt is also a topic that is more talked about today than it was in the past. Moreover, it is such as problem that you likely know someone who has enrolled themselves into a debt relief program. It won't hurt to ask around with friends, family, or at work. If you find anyone who is or was a client, ask for the contact information of that company and then ask for their own personal thoughts on the level of service provided.

Option #2 - Ask Those You Don't Know

Despite the fact that debt relief is more talked about today than it was in the past, you might feel a bit uncomfortable talking to those that you know. In that case, you want to use the internet. Online, there are many websites, blogs, and message boards that cover financial topics. You can read existing post to see what is said about debt relief companies or make your own post asking for suggestions. Keep in mind that you are getting advice from people you don't know, so do a little bit of additional fact checking.

Option #3 - Let a Debt Relief Network Help

Finally, a third option you have to use the services of a debt relief network. They choose to partner with the best settlement, credit counseling, and consolidation companies in the industry. They will make this information available to you on their online website.

There has really never been a more advantageous time for consumers to try and eliminate unsecured debt. Creditors are very concerned about collecting and most have government money to make eliminating some of your debt financially feasible.

Check out the link below to locate legitimate debt relief companies in your area:

Free Debt Advice [http://www.freedebtsettlementadvice.com]

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Bad Credit Credit Cards - Build Credit with a Major Credit Card

For the millions of consumers with bad credit and no credit, getting
approved for a major credit card takes a lot of effort. Unfortunately,
establishing credit is as equally challenging as re-establishing credit.
Creditors consider both types of people as risky applicants. Thus, they
are less eager to extend a line of credit. However, there are ways to
get around this problem. Bad credit credit cards are intended to make it
easier for some to obtain credit.

The Importance of Establishing a Good Credit History

Even with poor credit, you will be able to finance many purchases such
as a home or vehicle. However, good credit has certain advantages.
Those with a high credit score receive prime rates on home loans and auto
loans.

For some, low rates may not be a huge deal. Yet, low interest rates on
loans can potentially save you hundreds each month. Moreover, having
good credit unlocks the door to better financing alternatives.

Similarities Between Having No Credit and Bad Credit

Unfair as it may be, some lenders group those with no credit and
individuals with poor credit into the same category. This makes it harder for
young people and those trying to establish credit. Individuals with
poor credit made certain mistakes that justify a lender's reluctance. On
the other hand, those with no credit history have zero credit mistakes.
So, why do some lenders deny credit to those with no credit history?

In a nutshell, before granting a credit card or loan, lenders will
review credit reports to examine past relationships with other creditors.
It's a way to determine an applicant's likelihood of repaying funds. If
you have no credit history, lenders become uncertain. Instead of taking
a gamble, they rather deny an application.

Getting Approved for a Bad Credit Credit Card

Getting approved for a bad credit credit card is easy. The tricky part
is finding a lender that specializes in this sort of credit. Use the
internet to your advantage. Many bad credit credit card lenders offer
online applications and instant approvals. If you are hoping to build a
good credit history, this is one of the easiest approaches.

There are two types of bad credit credit cards. If you are approved for
an unsecured card, you may receive an initial low credit limit.
However, as you maintain regular payments, the creditor may gradually increase
the spending limit. With a secured credit card, applicants must open a
saving account with the lender. In the event that you decide to stop
making payments, this account serves as collateral.

Carrie Reeder is the owner of http://www.abcloanguide.com Visit her site to find recommended companies for bad credit credit cards.

View her recommended companies for Bad Credit Credit Cards online. Also, view her recommended no credit check payday loan lenders online.

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New Credit Advice: Don't Pay off Those Credit Cards!

Credit needed for real estate mortgage financing differs from credit needed for consumer loans. If you need help getting a home mortgage, these credit tips will help you.

Contrary to what many credit advisors say, paying off credit cards each month is not always the best action to take. When making credit card payments, don't pay the balance in full each month -- let a little roll over. Carry a balance on your credit card every other month --as little as a dollar. Paying balances in full does not increase your credit score; paying balances in full may in fact lower your credit score. Accounts with zero balances do not compute significantly in your total score. For instance, a credit card with a perfect payment history and no balance will not raise your credit score as much as a credit card with a low balance. Any balance keeps the card active so it computes in your credit score.

You most likely have been advised to cut up your credit cards and close your accounts. Following this advice degrades many credit scores.

Canceling Credit Cards

Canceling credit cards can lower your credit score. Keep your longest-term credit card account open to show long-term credit history. If this account has prior late notations, negotiate with the creditor to drop negative reporting on your credit history file. Slowly close out newer accounts after they are paid off. Keep your best accounts open -- those paid on time or reporting "pays as agreed" and with the longest history.

Credit card companies may raise your rate if you cancel a card before it is paid off; it is best to keep accounts with outstanding balances open until you pay them off.

Perfect Balance of Credit

1. Mortgage over one year old with all payments on time

2. Visa Card or Master Card with less than 10% of available credit as balance due

3. Discover or American Express Card with less than 10% of available credit as balance due

4. Auto loan either paid off or paid down with low payments compared to monthly income.

Debt-to-Income Ratio

Credit scores do not reflect income -- credit bureaus do not have income reported to them. However, real estate lenders look at the consumer debt-to-income ratio -- the amount of monthly debts in relation to the amount of earnings. Consumer debt is more highly regarded/scores higher if total debt is under 20% of net income, or total monthly payments on all debts is less than 35% of monthly gross income.

Qualifying Ratios

Lenders want the total debt ratio (the percentage of total monthly payments, including the new mortgage, to income) to be less than 33% for a typical conventional mortgage. This means the new mortgage payment, credit card payments, and all other monthly debt payments should not equal more than about one-third of the monthly income.

Lenders want the mortgage debt ratio (the percentage of the new mortgage payment to income) to be less than 28%.

Non-prime loans have lower standards; some lenders allow debt-to-income ratios as high as 55%. Borrowers with less than perfect credit qualify more easily for a non-prime loan compared to an "A-paper" loan.

Once you total your monthly expenses and determine your debt ratio, you can estimate how much you can afford for a house payment. For example, if your income is around $3,000 per month, you can afford a home with payments around $1,000 per month (including taxes and insurance) with a conventional loan, if your other debt does not total more than 5% of your income.

For investors, these equations change. Lenders expect 10%-25% down on investment property and allow about 75% of the rental income to offset the debt ratio.

Understanding your credit helps you manage your credit so you can obtain real estate financing, either for the house of your dreams or for your financial future.

(c) Copyright 2005 Jeanette J. Fisher. All rights reserved.

Professor Jeanette Fisher is the author of "Credit Help! Get the Credit You Need to Buy Real Estate," "Doghouse to Dollhouse for Dollars: Using Design Psychology to Increase Real Estate Profits," and other books. Jeanette and her husband chose real estate investing to be able to care for their daughter with special needs. While buying and selling millions of dollars worth of real estate, the Fishers were forced into becoming credit experts.

Forget what you've been told about credit. Get the credit you need to buy real estate. Visit Real Estate Credit Help Center: http://recredithelp.com/

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A Credit Card For People With Bad Credit - $10,000 Guaranteed Starting Credit Line

The recent financial crunch has caused many would be credit issuers to tighten up on approvals for those consumer applicants with less than perfect credit. Even new credit seekers who do not have poor FICO scores, but also have not had the opportunity to establish a good credit profile as of yet are being turned away and treated as high risk applicants.

The problem for people who fall into either of these categories is that they have a legitimate need to either establish or re-establish their good credit profile and raise their FICO score, however without easy access to credit card approvals their ability to accomplish this necessary task is extremely difficult. Ironically, it's these same card issuers who would like their applicants to have established solid credit histories who will not approve them in the beginning to help them prove that they are worthy of a new card approval. This vicious credit circle affects over half of the households in American today.

A few companies have recently stepped in to fill the credit needs of this growing consumer segment and offer instant online approval credit cards for people with bad credit or no credit history at all. These credit providers will typically issue new credit cards without a credit check and regardless of the applicants past or present credit history. Some of these cards are issued as major brand logo credit cards, prepaid debit cards, secured credit cards and online catalog shopping cards which allow the card holder to purchase household and gift items from the credit grantors web based store.

One such card offered with no credit check is a new Platinum Card that boasts a huge beginning limit of $10,000 for all of its approved applicants, even those with poor credit or no history at all. As long as the applicant is at least 18 years of age and has a valid U.S. checking or savings account, the applicant will be approved. The Platinum Card also features 0 % interest on any unpaid balance and there is no employment verification required for approval. The card does require a minimal initial membership fee, however once the new member is approved, the card issues each user a whopping $2,500 bonus to use towards unpaid balances in addition to the generous starting limit of $10,000.

For consumers who are having trouble getting approved for a traditional credit card with strict income and employment requirements, this particular card for people with bad credit may be a valuable option to acquire a high limit credit card with no credit checks or employment verification.

Christian T. Rogers has been working in and writing for the sub-prime financial market for the past 12 years. He has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine and has been a consultant for Fortune 500 companies specializing in the sub-prime financial markets. You can find out more about the credit card profiled in this article at Credit Cards for Bad Credit

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Average American Credit Card Debt and Debt Relief

The average American holds three or five credit cards, with a total credit card debt of $8,000 or more. But that's only true in 1 out of 20 American, according to the Federal Reserves, in 2001.

And according to Bill Whitt at the VIP Forum, a Washington D.C. research firm:

=Only 29% of households owe $1,000 or more on their cards
=21% owe $2,000 or more.
=6% owe $8,000 or more
=4% owe $10,500 or more
=1% owe $21,400 or more.

According toFair Isaacs:

=About 48% of credit card holders owed less than $1,000
=About 10% of card holders had total card balances in excess of $10,000
=More than half of all people with credit cards use less than 30% of their total credit card limit
=Just over 1 in 8 people use 80% or more of their credit card limit

In In 2003, according to the American Bankruptcy Institute, there were 1.6 million personal filings, and excessive credit card debts can very well be one of its reasons. Perhaps many of those personal filings were triggered by collection calls with threats of legal action. Consumers who know a little something about bankruptcy, would know that all collection efforts must cease once the consumer is approved for bankruptcy--via the Automatic Stay Provision. As long as the case is running creditors/collectors may not contact the consumer regarding the debt in question.

Bankruptcy is a court procedure. There would be fees to think about, papers, dates, and its impact on the credit. Bankruptcy stays on public records for up to 20 years. A Chapter 13 stays on the credit report for 7 years and Chapter 7 for 10 years--both are not removable by any law until after it's rendered its time.

Imagine the impact of a bankruptcy on your report when applying for a major loan or a new line of credit. For some, even an apartment hunting may become too difficult, and then for others, life issue after bankruptcy might be unemployment. Although there is a non-discrimination law against those who've filed bankruptcy...the stigma that's attached to the person that has gone through it is that he/she was not a desirable borrower or that he/she is irresponsible with money.

Although, there's life after bankruptcy, two years after the discharge, it's much better to first look for a good alternative to discharge credit card debts (unsecured debt). Like debt settlement. If the debt balance is $10,000 and above, the consumer might as well settle it with the collector. The original creditors usually assign the unpaid accounts (that are 6 months old to) to a third part collection agency, as mandated by the IRS, so they'd get a tax break. For some creditors, that's enough, but for some, they sue for judgment, hoping to collect on the full amount.

If the original creditors do not sue and instead assign the account to a collector, the consumer has a chance of settling for 30-60% (more or less) of the balance. And that's payable either on a lump sum payment or installment, depending on the negotiation.

One advantage of debt settlement over bankruptcy is, although it stays on the credit report for 7 years, it doesn't appear on public records. Another is, debt settlement doesn't need a lawyer, and court attendance for the consumer/client. The settlement company, once they've enrolled the consumer, would-from then on be the consumer's representative to the other side.

It's also important for consumers to learn about their FDCPA rights, so as not to be forced to file an unnecessary bankruptcy. Filing bankruptcy should be the last option for debt relief.

Summer Quinne is a debt consultant at http://www.franklindebtrelief.com/.

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Learning How to Save on Credit Card Processing Fees

Let's say that you run a retail business selling computers. One day, you get a call from a salesman; he wants you to switch credit card processors. Go with it, he says, and you will have a free credit card processing terminal, a low discount rate, and very low administrative fees. You really hate those credit card processing fees; so you think to yourself that this could be a great offer. You sign up, and you watch closely to see how all the savings add up. Usually, the discount rate, which is what you have to pay the credit card company and credit card processing fees for each swipe, is officially 2%. But there are all kinds of complexities involved in the matter; usually, retailers find that their actual fees come to 5%. After about two months, the jig is up - the new people charge no less than the old people. You know that you've been had.

The problem is that understanding a contract for credit card processing fees can be a terrible task. It's like asking you to read your health care plan and understand the fine print. Any vendor can quote you very encouraging-sounding prices; but those will be special case prices that you can never take advantage of in real life. For instance, if a customer actually takes out an ordinary credit card and swipes it, that could qualify for the low rate. If there is no physical card and someone has to key in the number, or if a customer shows up with the government or business credit card, your processing fees go up.

And that isn't even it. For a credit card sale that you get to make, you need to pay something called transaction fees to the processor. It's about 30 cents for every sale. And of course, you have to have an Internet presence and credit card processing ability over the Internet. The payment gateway fee is another monthly drain on your resources. And then for debit card sales, there is the debit transaction fee, there are chargeback fees, address verification service transaction fees, termination fees and monthly fees. It's enough to put anyone off the whole thought of starting a business in the first place. Some processors are transparent upfront about all of this; others try to make their money by getting you completely confused. Basically, unless you have the mind of a corporate lawyer, there is really no way you can compare one offer with another.

The best way to make your way through all of this is as usual to learn enough about everything. You need to read up enough about the whole business so that you understand the terminology the business uses. Ask to see the fee schedule and sit down and evaluate it properly. Make sure that you don't sign a long-term contract; and be sure that whatever you do, you don't go with an unreliable operator just a pinch a few pennies.

Read more about author in:

bad credit debt consolidation loans

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Credit Card Printers To Print Plastic Cards - Loyalty, Gift and Membership Cards

When you are an owner of a small business, such as a store, coffee house, salon, or other, you may have wondered how the big companies are able to print plastic cards to generate loyalty cards, plastic gift cards, or plastic membership cards.

Wonder no more! The secret of printing plastic cards is: Credit card printers! These have been in use for as long as there are credit and debit cards.

The great news today is that such credit card printers are getting to be affordable. Sure, you can get used ones on Ebay or Craigslist, but, not being familiar with the technology, perhaps this is not the best way to go for a first time user. What I mean is that the new credit card printers have gotten down in price to less than a thousand dollars. Some people are even using them to print plastic business cards!

Think about it. Just a short 15 years ago, the price of a decent black and white laser printer was five hundred dollars, easily. Today, you can get a low-end color plastic card printer for about twice as much.

The question remains, what type of card printer will be suitable for your intended use. We will briefly consider three types of uses that a small business owner might have for plastic card printing: Loyalty cards, Gift cards, and Membership cards.

Plastic loyalty card printers: These are usually cards with the store logo and a bar code imprinted on them. Great for building your brand. A single sided card printer will be sufficient for this. Optionally, you could opt for the magnetic stripe cards and would need to upgrade to a card printer with mag encoder built in, and the suitable software. Either way, you would then scan the bar code or the magnetic stripe at your POS, point of service, to give the appropriate discount.

Plastic gift cards: These are great brand builders, and spread the word about your company as they are often given to friends as presents. A plastic gift card printer with mag stripe encoder is a must here as you want the value of the card to be imprinted on the magnetic stripe, for added security.

Membership cards: Membership cards are suitable for gyms, ski resorts, and similar establishments. Typically, for identification purposes, plastic ID cards often display a bearers picture together with their name, address, and similar information. A simple single sided plastic ID card printer will be sufficient for this task. Just be sure that your software can connect to a digital camera, import the picture of the bearer, and place it onto the credit card design.

For additional information, such as brands and models of credit card printers, see the website http://printplasticcards.org. You will find info there on how to print custom plastic cards.

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Credit Card Rate Comparison

The most frequently searched for and examined portion of any credit card offer is the APR, the credit card annual interest rate. This is a critical factor for many card users because many carry a balance and the credit-card rate influences just how much they have to pay.

While getting the best credit card rate possible is important to the card holder, not all get the best rates because they did not research or compare the various offers from different companies. This can be a daunting task however because of the overwhelming numbers of cards and offers.

Using a credit-card comparison tool or a card finder can greatly ease the chore of sifting through hundreds of companies and offers. However when doing rate comparisons there are also other things to consider. Though a company may well offer extremely low rates, they may also have significantly higher fees. The comparison tools can help a person sort this out more easily.

The most attractive credit card rates are those that offer no interest. However, there is always a catch, and with these cards, the offer is for a limited period and then the regular rate applies. Some cards may only offer this introductory rate for balance transfers while others may also offer it for new purchases. In addition, of course, the regular rate should be considered. A no interest period may be helpful but not if the interest rate changes to 25% in 6 months. In that case, a cardholder may find himself or herself with a very nasty surprise on their card bill.

The cards with the very best rates may have very strict requirements as far as salary and credit rating. The shopper with less than perfect credit may be offered a higher rate due to their credit rating. However, by comparing different credit cards and their offers most credit-card users can find one that offers the best rate for them.

When choosing a credit card it is important not only to compare different companies but also to read the terms carefully and thoroughly. Credit card companies are required to inform the consumer before they sign up of all charges and fees that can apply to the card. Many people only read some of the conditions, but the unread portions may well contain information vital to them.

Credit cards frequently have two rates, one for purchases and one for cash advances. If the user often draws cash advances comparing the interest rates of cash advances may be important. Some companies charge a significantly higher interest rate on cash advances as opposed to purchases.

When considering a credit card with rewards or cash back it is usually an excellent idea to consider the annual fee. Annual fees are usually higher on rewards cards and it generally requires a significantly higher level of spending per year on the card to justify the higher fee.

Before choosing any credit-card it is vital to compare the rates and the other features as well then match them to the spending habits of the card applicant.

For further information, please visit Credit Card Comparison Guide Website.

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Personal Liability on Business Credit Cards

If the business does not meet these criteria, the business credit card issuers will use the credit history of the principal making the business credit card application as their basis for evaluating credit risk.

Do note that most business credit card issuers will not approve your application for a business credit card unless you agree to the personal liability provision. This essentially makes a business credit card the same as a personal credit card from a personal liability point of view. Hence, whenever your business fails to repay the business credit cards, the issuer may invoke the personal liability agreement in order to collect payment from the business credit card principal.

Because of this personal liability provision on your business credit card application, your personal credit reports will also contain a record of your business credit card history. You will therefore damage your personal credit score if you make late payments on your business credit cards. If your business accumulates a big debt, it will inflate your personal debt burden and cause you to appear overextended.

The personal liability agreement, however, is not always cast in concrete. If you can show that you diligently make your regular payments, you should be able to convince the issuer of business credit cards to remove the provision after a few years. It would really be up to the issuers whether they decide to grant you your request or not. Nonetheless, you could always try to negotiate with them. Whatever the case may be, endeavor to have the business establish its own credit history. This will eventually allow you to separate your small business credit card from your personal credit records.

You must be aware that since business credit cards are not intended to be used by consumers, the consumer protections applicable to personal credit card are not necessarily present in business credit cards. When making use of personal credit cards, the law grants you the right to dispute billing errors on your account within the specified period of time. Within this period, the card issuer cannot mark the disputed amount delinquent or cancel the card. This particular right of the consumer is not applicable to the holders of business credit cards.

When you receive ordered merchandise in poor condition, you cannot dispute the charges and in case the vendor refuses to cooperate, request the business credit card company to intervene on your behalf - as they do in the case of personal credit cards. With business credit cards, you are largely on your own.

So, should you carry a small business credit card rather than a personal credit card? The answer is: Yes. Once your business has established its track record, you can separate personal and business finances. That will work well - both for you and your business.

Richard Gilliland Provides Expert opinions and reviews to help you Compare and Apply for a Credit Card - Compare Credit Card Offers with Credit-Wisdom.com - Unraveling the best in Personal and Business Credit Cards [http://www.credit-wisdom.com/creditcards/business-credit-cards.php].

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