Archive for 'Credit & Debt'
New Credit Card Statements Could Help Consumers Decrease Debt
Mar 04, 2010 - The new credit cards statements can help you pay off your credit card debt faster by showing you how long it will take and how much extra interest you'll pay if you only send in the minimum.
Abused by a Debt Collector? Get a Free Lawyer
Mar 03, 2010 - Just because you owe money, doesn't mean debt collectors can treat you like a doormat. If they are, you might be able to turn the tables with a free lawyer.
4 Tips to Escape from Debt Prison
Mar 02, 2010 - The most popular ways people deal with their debts and how to figure out which will work best for you.
Swapping Favors in a Time Bank
Mar 01, 2010 - Earning "time dollars", and keeping them in a time bank, just might change the way you think about doing favors for friends.
Before The Credit CARD Act, A Pound of Flesh
Feb 25, 2010 - No, it wasn't your imagination. Your bank probably did raise rates and fees prior to submitting to the consumer protections enacted by the new law that went into force on February 22, 2010. And when you see the details, your blood will boil. Especially in light of the fact that taxpayers bailed out some of the same institutions now sticking it their customers.
Debt Settlement Company Bites Back
Feb 23, 2010 - Debt settlement is a controversial technique to pay less than what you owe. Read this recent email exchange between me and the owner of a debt settlement company and you'll see what I mean.
No More Extra Credit on Campus
Feb 23, 2010 - The Credit CARD Act is now in effect and one of the major provisions is a restriction on credit cards to those under 21. What's a student to do? Here are some ideas.
New Credit Card Statements: Coming Soon
Feb 22, 2010 - Thanks to the CARD Act, you're going to have new rights, credit card companies will have fewer, and it's all going to be spelled out in language that's a lot easier to understand.
Throwing a Recession-Buster Cocktail Party
Feb 20, 2010 - Instead of dining out in a bar or restaurant and sharing appetizers and a big bill, bring the party home and ask guests to share their favorite "small plate" while you serve up cocktails.
Citi Adds $60 Annual Fee to More Credit Card Accounts
Feb 19, 2010 - One week before the CARD Act goes into effect, Citi has added an annual fee to more accounts on many of its popular credit cards.
I Paid the Collection Agency, But the Negative is Still On My Credit History!
Feb 18, 2010 - Don't ever be persuaded to pay past due accounts without getting an agreement from the creditor or collection agency to remove any negatives from your credit history!
Viewer Question: If I Settle a Debt, Do I Have to Pay Taxes?
Feb 15, 2010 - Most people don't realize it, but when you're unable to pay your bills, you've got more to worry about than damage to your credit score. Because your creditor's not the only one involved when you avoid repaying part or all of a debt through debt settlement, foreclosure or any other sort of forgiveness. You've also got Uncle Sam to worry about.
Difference Between a Loan Shark and a Tax Refund Loan? Not Much.
Feb 12, 2010 - Just because the name is national, the people are friendly and the decor is nice doesn't mean you can trust your tax preparation service to do the right thing. The rates many preparers charge on refund anticipation loans makes them little more than loan sharks. If you don't use these loans, you know someone that does. So check out this story, then share it.
The “Other” Provisions of the Credit CARD Act
Feb 11, 2010 - Most of the attention from the bill has been given to the restrictions on interest rate increases and over the limit fees. However, there are many other lesser-known regulations in the Act that could have far-reaching ramifications for consumers.
Confessions of a Serial Haggler
Feb 10, 2010 - Most people negotiate on super-expensive things like cars and houses. But for many, that's where the haggling stops. It shouldn't. Negotiating for better deals on everything from cable bills to doctor visits isn't just rewarding: it can be fun. Check out this story on how to do it right.
