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Holiday charitable donations may remain strong despite the economy.
11.20.09
By Nicholas Storie People are trying more than ever to lower their credit card debt, possibly planning to hold down their holiday shopping expenditures as a result.
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- Late payments on credit cards up, defaults down 11.17.09
A recent report shows that companies that grant credit cards are still seeing high rates of delinquencies, which indicates the credit market could continue to be strained in the near future. - Real estate industry eyes improved 2010 11.16.09
The real estate industry is cautiously expecting more favorable conditions in 2010, with help from the recently-extended tax credit for home buyers. - Credit card debt hits lenders and consumers 11.12.09
Millions of Americans have been stung by the cost of maintaining their credit card debt, pushing some into bankruptcy and delinquency. - Consumers should be careful when seeking debt management help 11.11.09
A case currently pending in Illinois is the latest example of why consumers need to be careful when seeking outside companies to assist with their debt management problems. - Economic leaders remain troubled by unemployment rate 11.11.09
Leading economic figures are becoming increasingly concerned that a high nationwide unemployment rate could undermine a pending economic recovery by causing further trouble for millions of Americans with debt management problems. - Many lenders not yet compliant with upcoming credit card debt laws 11.10.09
Though members of Congress have looked at changing the effective date for rules associated with the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act, many banks indicate they won't be ready for regulations until February 2010. - Layaway programs could be useful debt management tool 11.09.09
Economists and retail industry experts are increasingly eyeing layaway programs as a potentially helpful way for consumers to meet their holiday shopping needs while staying focused on debt management. - Credit card debt continues to fall 11.08.09
Recent statistics from the Federal Reserve show that people may be trying to cut back on the amount of credit card debt they are carrying. - Credit card debt remains a problem for millions of Americans 11.06.09
Credit card debt is likely to remain a widespread problem with a national unemployment rate that climbed to 10.2 percent. - Regulations for credit cards may be moved up 11.06.09
New rules governing credit cards may end up being moved up as the House moved to change the effective date of the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act. - Some are tempted to ditch their increasingly expensive credit cards 11.04.09
Ever since Congress approved reforms that will affect fees and interest rates millions pay on their credit cards, some companies have responded by developing new ways to boost their profits. - Delinquencies in credit cards may lead to more defaults 11.04.09
Rising unemployment is being tied to a potential increase in problems with credit cards, despite the fact that defaults dropped in October. - Overdraft fees can weigh on some consumers' budget process 11.01.09
Paying off overdraft fees can have a significant impact on more than one consumer's budget, which is why members of Congress are taking a closer look at them. - Credit scores often impact auto insurance as well as borrowing terms 10.31.09
Millions of Americans struggle daily to make ends meet and to get their credit scores to a point where they can secure more favorable borrowing terms.
- Consumers not giving up debt management for the holidays 10.30.09
Debt management remains on the mind of many consumers judging from recent surveys that suggest the coming holiday shopping season will be a weak one. - Young people worry about financial situations, debt 10.28.09
Despite what some people might think, a new survey shows that young people are not totally tuned out when it comes to debt and their financial future. - Little has changed so far in credit card industry 10.28.09
The credit card industry may be about to deal with reforms that are supposed to dramatically change some of its practices, but a recent report says that they may still have a considerable way to go. - Paying more than the minimum important to debt management 10.27.09
People who are struggling with credit card debt may get a break in the coming months when it comes to how much lenders can charge for interest and late fees. However, the amount one makes on monthly payments can be an equally important factor. - Dodd looks to stop rate, fee increases on credit cards 10.27.09
The government recently enacted a law that would further regulate credit cards, though many lenders have tried to increase fees and interest rates before the new rules actually take effect. - Jobs show potential to slowly come back 10.26.09
People who are struggling with debt brought on by unemployment may have a potential bright spot in the form of a new report suggesting that firms may be somewhat more likely to be hiring. - House committee votes to speed up credit card reforms 10.24.09
Legislation that could help more Americans manage their credit card debt took a step closer to becoming reality this week on Capitol Hill. - Unemployment statistics offer glimpse of widespread debt management problems 10.22.09
Recent government statistics confirm that people in some states are facing far greater difficulties with debt management than in others because of the availability of jobs. - Elderly more likely to face debt management problems 10.21.09
A recent report finds that among all the people having debt management problems in the current economy, senior citizens are increasingly likely to owe money to creditors. - New legislation could help consumers with debt management 10.20.09
As millions of Americans continue to struggle with debt management, a prominent senator has unveiled legislation aimed at reducing the amount they pay on overdraft fees. - Options for people having trouble with student loans 10.20.09
Young people who are facing the prospect of having difficulty paying their student loans do have a few options that can come into play if they are in the middle of needing debt relief. - Credit score issues raised as consumers seek to avoid new fees 10.18.09
For much of this year, the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act has been making news, raising the hope of debt-straddled consumers while generating consternation among some lenders. - Unemployment figures suggest workers' debt management woes could ease 10.17.09
Unemployed Americans may be on the verge of getting some relief with their debt management problems now that the jobs situation seems to be improving. - Economy takes toll on lenders as well as consumer credit scores 10.16.09
The economy is taking a toll on much more than consumers' credit scores. Some of the nation's top lenders are also feeling the pain as well. - Bank of America giveth and taketh away 10.15.09
New laws that will go into effect in February are aimed at helping Americans with mounting credit card debt, but some say credit card companies are raising rates and increasing fees before the legislation starts. - Card companies seem unnerved by new debt management trend 10.14.09
One potentially interesting new trend in the world of debt management appears to be that some consumers are doing so well at paying down their balances that some creditors are trying to provide incentives for them to use their cards more. - Credit score maintenance can get complicated 10.13.09
When it comes to managing one's credit score, people can sometimes make decisions that aren't in their best interests. - Wells Fargo raises credit card interest rates 10.13.09
The Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act (CARD), which was passed by Congress earlier this year, will limit how credit card companies can raise interest rates on consumers when the second part of the legislation takes effect next year. But before that can happen at least one bank has chosen to increase consumers' rates in a step many feel is in response to the new law. - Federal reforms having impact on credit scores 10.12.09
The federal Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act is bringing out some changes that people are feeling in their credit scores and overall debt burdens. - IRS deadline could add to some people's debt management woes 10.11.09
Some people struggling with debt management issues may find themselves deeper in the financial hole next week if they fail to file outstanding federal tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service. - Proposed agency aims to help with debt management issues 10.10.09
Consumers who are struggling with debt management problems could potentially get relief under a proposed new federal agency being backed by the Obama Administration and some members of Congress. - Government offers poor example for debt management 10.08.09
Consumers who are worried about debt management would do well not to take their cues from the federal government. - For seventh straight month, consumer credit falls 10.08.09
While credit card debt and unemployment are causing many Americans to struggle to pay bills each month, new figures from the federal government show that consumers are cutting back on their debt just as the U.S. Treasury Secretary said Americans will have to save more. - Illinois targets unscrupulous debt settlement companies 10.07.09
Consumers struggling with high credit card bills can often see their credit scores end up even more damaged if they end up with the wrong debt settlement company. - Study finds bank overdraft fees increased 35 percent 10.07.09
It seems that credit card debt is not the only financial problem facing Americans as a new report finds that even those who are trying to avoid using credit by making purchases with debit cards are increasingly being hit with fees from their banks. - Travelers should be wary of more than just credit card debt 10.06.09
People who charge a lot of items while traveling overseas may have more than just high credit card debt to pay attention to. - Hundreds of thousands of Americans dealing with damaged credit scores 10.05.09
For hundreds of thousands of Americans, 2009 was a year when their credit score suffered serious and lasting damage. - Chargeoffs a serious part of credit card defaults 10.04.09
One reality of credit card debt for consumers is that even if a lender gives up on collecting a balance, people are still on the hook for the loan. - As more consumers focus on debt reduction, creditors eye wealthier customers 10.04.09
Facing a mix of pending government reforms and a general population that is increasingly focused on debt reduction, more card companies are said to be eyeing wealthy consumers as a way to boost their profit margins. - Rising delinquencies mean more damage to credit scores 10.03.09
Better credit scores remain beyond the reach of millions of Americans judging from recently released figures from the American Bankers Association. - Debt relief becoming more elusive as jobs fall away 10.02.09
Americans struggling to find some debt relief are finding little relief from the government's latest unemployment figures. - New government proposals could help consumers with credit card debt 09.30.09
The Federal Reserve has proposed new rules that could help consumers who are struggling to pay down credit card debt. - Groups warn of practices that can inflate credit card debt 09.29.09
Two consumer organizations are denouncing lenders for unfair tactics that help keep consumers buried in credit card debt despite the passage of a federal reform bill. - Lawmakers seek to speed up credit card reforms 09.27.09
A new proposal in Congress would speed up the implementation of reforms that could help provide credit card debt help to millions of Americans. - Economic optimism buoyed by real estate market 09.26.09
Consumers who are wondering if it's the right time to buy a home might want to start working on boosting their credit scores, judging from new economic statistics. - Data suggests more Americans in market for a mortgage loan 09.26.09
The real estate industry got some mixed news this week in the form of new statistics for existing home sales. - Various factors affect cost of a mortgage loan 09.26.09
People who are looking to save money when they take out a mortgage loan can gain some perspective from recent media reports about factors that can substantially decrease the perceived value of a property. - Poor credit scores likely to continue holding back borrowers 09.26.09
Consumers with poor credit scores can forget about securing favorable terms from their lenders, according to one leading personal finance columnist. - Card industry responding to overdraft criticism 09.23.09
People who are working to pay down credit card debt and other financial headaches could get a boost from what may become a growing trend in the credit card industry. - Credit card woes can hit younger people hard 09.23.09
People who want to avoid racking up high consumer credit debt and damaging their credit score for years are generally advised to get started with responsible personal finance during their college years.
- Delinquent auto loans taking toll on credit scores 09.22.09
People may be making more progress paying down their credit debts, but this doesn't mean they aren't continuing to inflict damage on their credit score. - Legislation targets fees that can add too consumer credit debt 09.20.09
Consumers will soon see the benefits of federal legislation aimed at reining in abrupt interest rate hikes and high late fees that can add greatly to their credit card debt. - New credit card offerings emphasize simplicity 09.17.09
Simplicity may be an emerging trend in the credit card industry, with some leading lenders recently announcing new products that could make things easier for their customers.
- Credit card defaults up at major lenders 09.16.09
Over the past few months, banks had been releasing some promising figures regarding credit card defaults - but new data suggests that any signs of improvement may not be lasting. - TransUnion: Consumers still likely to pay late 09.15.09
Many Americans may still be struggling to repay credit card debt and keep their credit score on track, but in some areas of the country consumers are managing to get their financial situation under control. - Credit card companies already getting around regulations 09.13.09
The first phase of credit card reform legislation recently came into effect, giving consumers a better chance to pay down their credit card debt, but it would appear that credit card companies have already found ways to circumvent the rules and have discovered loopholes in the law. - Index finds consumer sentiment on the rise 09.12.09
Although it seems like Americans continue to get negative news about the economy, their confidence appears to be increasing, which leads to hope that credit card debt will begin to be paid off and they will have more money to put toward home loans in coming months. - Credit card companies targeting the wealthy for new cards 09.12.09
With many in the middle class seeing their credit scores take a hit during the ongoing recession, it appears that credit card companies are trying to make up losses by getting wealthy Americans to use their cards and rack up credit card debt. - Are more banks modifying customers' credit card debt? 09.11.09
In recent months, there have been a slew of media reports and anecdotal evidence suggesting that credit card issuers are raising customers' interest rates, thus making it more difficult for them to pay off credit card debt. - Treasury: Anti-foreclosure efforts helped 12% of eligible borrowers 09.10.09
More American families have been able to stop foreclosure as servicers have stepped up the pace of home loan modifications over the past month, according to a new report from the Treasury Department. - Consumer credit posts record drop 09.09.09
Americans are continuing to hold back on spending, avoid adding to their credit card debt and encounter problems with opening new lines of credit, figures from the Federal Reserve suggest. - Credit card debt increases stress for Americans 09.08.09
There may be a lot of talk about the economy turning around, but do consumers feel their personal situation brightening? - Debit card may cut down on medical expenses placed on credit cards 09.06.09
Most bankruptcies in the U.S. are attributed to some sort of medical expense while many are forced to pay medical bills with credit cards. But while the nation discusses what should be done about the current healthcare system, some residents in Indiana will get a debit card which rewards them for making visits to the doctor. - College student debt on the rise 09.03.09
With college students around the country beginning the school year, many of this year's class will fall into the trappings of credit card debt to help pay for tuition, books and other expenses. And it appears that the amount of money these students are borrowing is growing faster than ever. - Are companies urging consumers to pay down credit card debt? 09.02.09
It appears that at least one credit card company is trying to urge consumers to not take chances with credit card debt and to try to rein in credit card spending that caused many Americans to fall into deep debt. - Consumers Cutting Back on Credit Use 09.02.09
Is that good or bad? Mercator Advisory Group's recent report, The Consumers and Their Credit Cards: A Cooling Relationship Threatens Post-Recession Outlook describes how consumers are cutting back on their use of credit. - Fitch: Credit card charge-offs on the decline 09.01.09
It appears that Americans might be getting a better handle on paying down their credit card debt as a new report finds that credit card charge-offs fell in July after months of continual increases. - Consumer confidence down in August 08.31.09
A number of recent economic indicators suggest that the economy is getting back on track while at least one analyst has said the recession is over, but that news doesn't appear to be resonating with the American public as a new survey finds that consumer confidence fell in August. - Credit card companies making it harder to make minimum payments 08.29.09
Many Americans are doing their best to pay down their credit card debt each month by making more than the monthly payment, but it appears that in some cases, the card companies are making it more difficult to make each month's payment. - Private student loans become more prevalent 08.27.09
College students and their families have long used loans to help fund a university education, but these days more people are turning to private loans, according to a new report. - For many Americans dealing with credit card debt, it's a back-to-basics approach 08.23.09
With so many people trying to make ends meet between credit card and home loan payments, it appears that some Americans are turning to the more basic necessities when they go grocery shopping. - Millions saw their credit card limits cut 08.22.09
It has gotten harder for Americans to access credit during the current economic downturn as credit card companies cut credit limits, but a new report finds that these cuts have not had a dramatic impact on consumers' credit scores. - Credit card rules' first phase kicks in today 08.20.09
Are you ready for some changes that could affect how you pay off your credit card debt? - Credit still hard to come by: Fed survey 08.19.09
If you want to open a new credit card account or increase your limit, you'd better have a good credit score. - New Legislation's Effects on Student Credit 08.19.09
According to a study released in April by Sallie Mae, a federally-backed college loan company, the average college student owed $3,173 in college debt in 2008, the highest amount since Sallie Mae started tracking student debt in 1998. - Credit card defaults, delinquencies decline in July 08.19.09
It appears that it may be getting easier for some Americans to pay their credit card debt, as many of the major credit card companies reported that their charge-off rates fell slightly in July, with JPMorgan Chase reporting a decline in defaults for the second straight month. - Consumers may get help with credit card debt as employers reverse salary cuts 08.17.09
Although unemployment figures remain high across the country, there may be hope around the corner as businesses consider removing wage freezes which mean workers might have more money to put toward credit card debt and home loan payments. - Grads facing debt before they enter the workforce 08.16.09
Many college students are saddled with credit card and other debt when they finally reach graduation, but a new report finds that those who attended public colleges had less debt and say the amount rose less than their private school counterparts over the last five years. - Credit card arbitration clauses axed by Bank of America 08.14.09
Mandatory arbitration clauses have been the subject of much controversy lately, putting a spotlight on the binding language often contained in consumers' credit card agreements. - Illinois signs bill restricting marketing credit cards to students 08.12.09
When college students in Illinois show up for school later this month it will be the last time credit card companies will be able to hand out things like t-shirts and posters in the hope of signing them up for a student credit card. - Over-limit credit card fees axed by Discover and AmEx 08.11.09
These days, it seems the headlines are all about more - and higher - fees for the average consumer, pushing credit card debt higher and causing further financial stress. - Credit card debt shrank in June 08.10.09
While there has been a lot talk lately about the economy looking up, there is one area that seems to be slower to recover: consumer spending. - With credit hard to find, person-to-person lending on the rise 08.10.09
With the credit score of many Americans being affected by the recent downturn in the economy, people in need of money are turning to some untraditional means - including getting personal loans from friends, family and even people they don't know. - Credit card write-offs fall at AmEx 08.07.09
Could America's credit card debt problems be improving? New figures from American Express suggest that the number of uncollectable accounts is diminishing - but will the trend continue? - "Average" Americans being affected by financial problems 08.01.09
Many people often think that they won't fall victim to bankruptcy, but a recent report finds that the average American facing financial distress is employed, married and between the ages of 35 and 44. - Groups call for 10 percent cap on loan interest rates 07.25.09
It would appear that the high interest rates and increasing amounts of credit card debt are finally causing Americans to get up-in-arms, as several cities saw protests this week from people calling for a cap on interest rates on credit cards and other consumer loans. - Credit card charge-offs tick up again 07.23.09
As the unemployment rate moves higher, Americans are continuing to struggle when paying off credit card debt. - Credit card arbitration in flux as firms withdraw 07.22.09
After the second major arbitration firm has removed itself from the consumer credit market, uncertainty remains about how credit card disputes will be resolved under current contracts. - Credit card companies factoring in bank accounts when issuing cards 07.22.09
A number of issues like credit score, credit card debt and outstanding personal loans can factor into the terms of an individual's credit card agreement, but for an increasing number of credit card issuers the amount of money you have in the bank might also be taken into consideration. - Teens push to get credit cards before regulations kick in 07.19.09
New credit card regulations are slated to go into effect early next year which some say will help consumers with mounting credit card debt, but before this law goes into effect some young adults are trying to get their hands on plastic. - Delinquency, default rates for credit card companies diverge 07.18.09
Figures released from the major credit card companies seem to tell two different stories on how Americans are handling their credit card debt as default rates increase and decline depending on the company. - Americans feeling less stressed about their debts 07.14.09
Credit card debt was a mainstay of the American consumer mentality for the past several years, driving levels of borrowing up to record highs. - Credit card companies hiking rates ahead of rule change 07.13.09
Have you had the interest rate on your credit card increased in recent weeks and you're not sure why? - Credit cards increasingly used to pay medical bills 07.13.09
Although there is much talk about healthcare reform in Washington, the reality is that many Americans struggle to pay for services when they get ill and new statistics show that a growing number of people are paying for medical care with their credit cards - a practice which can have dramatic side-effects. - Banks' fees are not so courteous 07.12.09
A growing number of Americans are struggling with credit card debt, but even those who try to avoid the debt by using debit cards are getting hit with a variety of fees - like the so-called courtesy overdraft - which are costing consumers millions of dollars each year. - Consumer credit falls for fourth straight month 07.11.09
It would appear that Americans have learned a lesson during the current recession and cut back on their credit card debt as new figures show that consumer credit fell in May for the fourth straight month. - Connecticut limits marketing credit cards to college students 07.11.09
When students first show up to college they learn how to quickly make friends, live away from home and manage a schedule, but in recent years it has also meant signing up for a student credit card - something that will now change in Connecticut. - Americans' credit risk increases 07.10.09
While many U.S. consumers might disagree with its assessment, the latest figures from TransUnion show that Americans are increasingly higher credit risks with residents of Mississippi having the title of being the most likely to be 90-days delinquent. - Credits cards: Moving from fixed rates to variable? 07.09.09
These days, consumers really do seem to be facing a constantly changing landscape when it comes to credit cards. - Racial, ethnic groups differ in saving, borrowing on 401(k) 07.08.09
A new study finds that there is a disparity among various racial and ethnic groups when it comes to their retirement plans, with African-Americans three times as likely to take a hardship loan than whites. - Credit card delinquencies edge higher 07.07.09
As the unemployment rate continues to tick higher, Americans are finding it more difficult to repay their credit card debt and other loans. - Credit card fees for college students who charge tuition 07.02.09
No one ever claimed that a college education came cheaply. But the cost of paying for college is growing even higher for some students, as more universities levy extra fees on those who use credit cards to pay their tuition. - FICO credit score has flaws, congressman says 06.30.09
Over the past several months, many Americans have felt the negative impact of the credit crunch, even if they have a flawless borrowing history and also repay their credit card debt on time. - Credit card debt can plague college grads before their first job 06.30.09
Recent figures highlighting the credit card woes of college graduates shows that getting a diploma doesn't necessarily mean a young person knows how to manage their money. - Student loan repayment program starts this week 06.29.09
If you have a federal student loan but are struggling to find a well-paying job, a new program may help you lower your monthly payments to a reasonable level. - Credit card debt poised to fall? 06.29.09
With many Americans getting serious about living on a budget and getting a better grip on their debt management, it seems more people will be taking steps to pay off their credit card debt and rebuild their savings. - Credit card company helps consumers rein in spending 06.27.09
For American families having trouble managing household budgets on their own, one credit card company is now offering to help. - Credit card statements considered 'virtually incomprehensible' 06.20.09
Is it easy for you to read your credit card statement each month and determine what you owe and by when? - Borrowers focused on paying down debt 06.19.09
With consumers increasingly looking to the government for assistance these days - whether it is for help negotiating terms on mortgages to avoiding foreclosures to job search resources - the recession is taking a toll on the American family. - Households working on debt management 06.15.09
In an effort to keep credit card debt in check, consumers have been trying to pay off bills and ease up on luxury goods and non-necessity spending. - New car research includes knowing your credit score 06.11.09
Parents typically love to give advice - regaling their kids with tales of how things were done in their days and what they learned from their experiences. - Iowans keep credit card debt in check 06.09.09
Most consumers are working hard to stick to a budget and pay off credit card debt that has accumulated as the recession took hold. - Credit card spending remains low 06.08.09
Although there are signs that American consumers are growing more confident about economic recovery, people are still wary about spending. - Debit cards may be favored over cash, credit 06.07.09
Consumers have long pulled out their wallets and reached for plastic to pay for purchases - and in some cases it led individuals to spend beyond their means and accumulate credit card debt. - Does warm weather spur credit card debt? 06.06.09
Are sunny days one reason your credit card debt is going up again? - Credit card debt still prevalent among consumers 06.03.09
Reports have shown recently that individuals and households that have been burdened by credit card debt during the recession are taking steps to change their ways. - New service helps consumers negotiate medical bills 06.02.09
Consumers struggling to pay medical debt may find relief with a new service, IOUSOS, which offers a new technology platform designed to bring consumers and medical providers together to resolve unpaid medical bills. - Savings plan options help families finance college 05.31.09
Financing a college education is at the forefront of many parents' financial concerns - especially given the high school graduation season is quickly approaching. - Substantial increase noted in bankruptcy filings 05.30.09
With debt management spiraling out of their control and credit counseling alternatives exhausted, a growing number of consumers are now facing bankruptcy. - Families increasingly seeking scholarship assistance 05.28.09
Although news about credit card debt and protection for consumers against predatory acts by card-issuing companies is grabbing headlines these days, another form of debt is taking on an increasingly prevalent role in the personal financial situation of families with college-age kids. - Credit card offers said to be letting up 05.26.09
It's a pretty common occurrence to grab the mail and find not just one but sometimes many offers to apply for credit cards. - College education funds trump retirement savings goals 05.24.09
Given the magnitude of financial burdens facing American families since the onset of the recession well over one year ago, it has become increasingly difficult to prioritize borrowing and savings needs. - Credit card losses may increase further 05.23.09
Credit card companies have recently taken steps like raising interest rates and lowering available credit limits in an effort to prevent consumer credit card losses from mounting and wreaking havoc on their business portfolios. - Saving for college remains a top priority 05.19.09
Although parents of pre-college age kids are juggling a number of different financial burdens, many remain committed to saving for a college education. - Credit counseling helps improve debt management skills 05.15.09
Consumers who have been feeling underwater recently are likely struggling to manage their outstanding debt ranging from credit card bills to home loan payments. - Is bankruptcy an option? 05.12.09
Bankruptcy is a perfectly legal and recognized method of getting out of debt. In fact, between 1.2 and 1.5 million people file for protection under the bankruptcy laws each year. - Parents play role in financial literacy 05.09.09
Filling out financial aid applications for high school students enrolling in college is a daunting task - one that likely involves a parent's guidance and help. - Student loan repayment options to expand 05.03.09
Beginning this summer, borrowers with student loans will be able to take advantage of two new programs to help ease the burden of paying off their debt. - Treasury supports credit card reform 04.30.09
Treasury secretary Timothy Geithner is the latest high-profile official to lend his support to sweeping credit card industry reforms that are currently being considered in Congress. - Fed wants to clarify credit card rules 04.25.09
Responding to some confusion about upcoming rules to curb "unfair" credit card practices, U.S. banking regulators have proposed some clarifications. - 'Deceptive practices' make White House angry 04.22.09
Has your credit card company misled you by increasing interest rates or cutting your credit limit, saying that these actions were described in fine print somewhere in some document you signed - but maybe didn't understand - a long time ago? - Consumers looking to maximize tax refund 04.19.09
Having a few extra dollars or a few hundred extra dollars to put towards paying off outstanding credit card debt or getting ahead on a monthly mortgage loan payment could make a big difference to some cash-strapped consumers. - Some consumers making risky decisions 04.12.09
Although the Mortgage Bankers Association announced earlier this week that movement in its Market Composite Index shows mortgage loan application volume activity is up nearly 5 percent, many Americans are not able to buy property or even stay current on their outstanding home loan. - Young adults falling behind on student loan, home loan payments 04.11.09
New survey results are painting a grim economic picture for young adults faced with mounting credit card debt and diminishing hope for future job security. - Student loans put education within reach 04.09.09
The snow is melting, the sun has started to feel warm again, and if your child applied to college this year, you're likely about to receive his or her offer of aid letter. Be prepared to do your research - this tumultuous and exciting time of year involves plenty of financial organization. - When is bankruptcy the right option? 04.09.09
Easily the most difficult question that people ask me is when is it time to throw in the towel and head down the block to the friendly neighborhood bankruptcy attorney. You've fought the good fight and now it's time to seek the help of the law as a way to protect you from your creditors, which is the definition of bankruptcy. So when do you know it's time? - Exiting the credit environment is an Ill-advised strategy 03.31.09
Fewer lenders granting credit, more restrictive lending terms, and higher minimum credit score requirements: sounds like a recipe for us to get out and stay out of the credit environment. The conventional wisdom seems to be that if we avoid the credit system we can?t become victimized by it. - Consumers face new credit card headache 03.31.09
Some holders of JPMorgan Chase credit cards felt a new burden in January - a $10 service fee and an increased minimum payment due.
- New survey: Airline rebates out, cash-back rewards in 03.26.09
Earning air miles for spending money on credit cards and exchanging them for tickets to tropical destinations has traditionally been a popular rewards program for a number of account holders. - Bankruptcy reform reconsidered 03.24.09
You may already be aware that bankruptcy is meant as an option of last resort, a decision that can significantly dent your credit score. - New government site offers homeowner help 03.22.09
Consumers under pressure to meet mortgage loan payments might be wise to spend some time surfing a new government website that outlines federal assistance currently being offered to homeowners. - Auto loan delinquency rate expected to rise further 03.18.09
Auto loans are the latest stumbling block tripping up many consumers - some of whom are already under a mountain of debt including mortgage loans and credit card bills. - New agency could offer greater consumer protection 03.16.09
Have late payments on credit cards taken a toll on your credit score? Did you fully understand the terms of your mortgage loan? Has a credit card company approached you to close an account? - Late credit card payments burden consumers 03.12.09
Unemployment seems to be having a ripple effect on consumers' personal finances these days. As job losses mount, more and more Americans are finding it harder to manage credit card debt and make payments on time. - Fair debt collection laws: FTC urges reform 03.11.09
When my sister moved last year, she got a new phone number at her new residence. Within days, she was deluged with calls from debt collectors trying to track down the previous owners of that phone number. - British bank to curtail U.S. consumer lending business 03.03.09
Crippled by ongoing financial markets turmoil, many banks and other lenders are taking dramatic actions and some precautionary steps to better manage ongoing instability. - Debt collection changes proposed 02.28.09
The Federal Trade Commission has suggested changes to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), with the aim of improving consumer protections. - Companies offer 'assurance' during recession 02.27.09
In a move considered both marketing genius and a gesture of goodwill toward consumers, Korean automaker Hyundai is helping reduce a consumer's risk when they take out an auto loan to buy a new vehicle. - Retail credit card defaults hit Target 02.26.09
Consumers may find it more difficult to obtain a retail credit card from a well-known shopping outlet. - Car buyers get tax break from stimulus 02.19.09
People who are in the market for a new car or truck stand to benefit from the new $787 billion stimulus. - Credit card providers launch consumer helpline 02.18.09
Are you struggling to pay off your credit card debt? Feeling intimidated by a large balance? - Consumer credit falls again 02.09.09
Have you been changing your spending habits over the past few months to a more conservative approach? If so, you are not alone. - Fewer credit card offers in people's mailboxes 02.06.09
Have you noticed that your mailbox is a bit more sparsely filled these days? - TARP banks cut lending 01.27.09
The Troubled Asset Relief Program was meant to unfreeze credit and help banks that held sour debts to start lending again. - Banks scaling back their rewards cards 01.14.09
As rising delinquencies and defaults hit credit card companies where it hurts, providers are looking for ways to recoup some of the money they are losing. - Experts: Bailout has not helped consumer credit 01.06.09
One of the stated purposes of the $700 billion bank bailout was that it would help free up consumer credit - but now some economists are saying it has fallen short. - GMAC relaxes credit score criteria 12.31.08
Car-shoppers listen up: The minimum credit score that General Motors' auto financing arm GMAC will accept is set to get lower. - Agencies clamp down on identity theft 12.29.08
Many variables can lower your credit score - failure to make repayments on time, too high a proportion of credit card debt to available funds, a tendency to repay only the monthly minimum. Unknowingly falling victim to identity fraud is another such factor, and one you should do everything to avoid.
- Consumer spending blamed for GDP fall 12.26.08
In another sign that the dollar in your pocket is directly linked to the fortunes of the national economy, the recent downturn in consumer spending is being cited as the main reason for a decrease in a key economic indicator.
- Sweeping changes to credit card rules approved 12.19.08
Anyone who has ever felt taken advantage of by a seemingly sudden change to their credit card terms may have cause for celebration. - This year, tax refunds may go toward paying off credit card debt 12.16.08
American retailers usually have something to look forward to in the first few months of the New Year. - Students and families borrow more to pay for school 12.12.08
A good education is undoubtedly a valuable asset, but the price of a college education is growing more expensive, putting the pinch on the average American family. - Report: Bank credit card debt rising 12.11.08
New findings add to a grim financial picture: Americans are continuing to add to their overall bank credit card debt - and an increasing number of consumers are struggling to pay their bills. - Do online payments help customers stay on top of bills? 12.09.08
We all know that technology is both a blessing and a curse. Some inventions that are aimed at making our lives easier may end up adding complications, while other innovations quickly become day-to-day necessities.
- Love in the time of financial crisis 12.08.08
When all of the news seems to be bad, who do you turn to for comfort? The person you love, of course. But what if you aren't in a relationship?
- Credit card regulations to be finalized soon 12.08.08
Any credit cardholder who has ever wished that their provider could be held to stricter standards may soon have their desires fulfilled. - Credit rating agencies under fire 12.03.08
It might be hard to understand how the actions of a small committee in one part of the country can affect the price we pay for mortgages loans or our ability to access credit cards.
- Expert warns of credit card squeeze 12.02.08
With times getting tighter and unemployment continuing to rise, it's understandable to view your credit card as a safety net - a reliable means of accessing funds when you're starting to feel the pinch. - Fed finally turns its gaze to assisting consumers 11.26.08
A few months ago, when the government announced it would be directing funds toward bailing out the financial industry, you may have wondered if it had any plans to give the average consumer a helping hand as well. - More car owners delinquent on loan payments 11.25.08
If you are feeling financially strapped and are faced with deciding between making a payment toward your home loan or your car loan, chances are it would not be difficult to choose. - Do you carry a balance on your credit card? Watch out for changes 11.25.08
People who are paying off their credit card debt slowly and surely may find the process grows more expensive over the coming months. - Just in time for the holidays: PayPal to offer credit 11.21.08
If you are a loyal online shopper but have been having doubts about how to pay for this year's Christmas shopping, PayPal may have a potential solution. - Choices narrowing for students who want to consolidate loans 11.18.08
Debt consolidation has long been an option chosen by those who have a number of different loans at variable interest rates, such as college students. - Study: Students spend more when using credit 11.17.08
A test question for all college students: what is the difference between paying with plastic and paying with cash? - Retailers feel pain from store card debt 11.14.08
Personal finance experts have long warned consumers about the potential dangers posed by store-branded credit cards. - In current economy, consumers shift focus to credit scores 11.14.08
The phrase "credit crunch" pretty much says it all - more consumers are finding that their attempts to get credit are being squashed as lenders tighten their standards on everything from credit cards to home loans. - Rising credit card rates and fees sting consumers 11.11.08
In the coming months, be on the lookout for another potential consequence of the credit crunch - higher interest rates and fees imposed by your credit card provider. - Consumer credit rebounds 11.10.08
Many economists were surprised when consumer borrowing was recently shown to have decreased in August - the first time the trend had fallen rather than risen in nearly a decade. - Credit crunch may offer silver lining 11.07.08
Do you have junk mail fatigue? If you're tired of seeing your mailbox filled with offers encouraging you to apply for credit cards, at least some relief is apparently on the way. - Roll back your credit card debt with Wal-Mart? 11.07.08
As one of America's largest and most controversial companies, Wal-Mart draws very mixed reactions from a general public that tends to see it as either a downtown-destroying, union-busting corporate monster or as a great place to help working families make ends meet. - A bailout for cardholders? 11.06.08
In economic times as challenging as these, any break given by the big banks to the little consumer with sky-high credit card debt is likely to be welcomed with open arms. - Graduates, it's a jungle out there 11.05.08
Do you ever wish your university had offered a class in how to weather the credit crunch? - Online shopping loses its appeal 11.05.08
In the past, if you needed a little retail therapy, all you had to do was log on to your favorite shopping site and click to buy to your heart's content. - Banks tighten criteria for credit cards, loans 11.04.08
Given the headlines of recent weeks, you could be forgiven for assuming that banks had reined in their lending so tightly that no one could possibly qualify for a loan at all. - Deleveraging: a big word for a simple idea 11.04.08
The bad behavior of Wall Street was apparently what got us into this current financial mess, so should we really be looking to big banks as a role model? - Cardholders watch out - Credit card providers continue to draw back 10.31.08
Could attractive credit card offers be an endangered species? - Target tightens up credit 10.27.08
If you are thinking of applying for a credit card at a Target store at some point in the next several months, be prepared to have your credit history pored over with a fine-toothed comb. - Expert: Your credit score is more important than ever 10.21.08
For years, financial experts have been telling consumers to look at improving their credit scores in order to get access to the best deals on products such as mortgages and loans. - Weak economy hits student loans 10.20.08
A college education has never been cheap, but at least most families can get the money they need through financial aid and loans, right? - Banks report more credit card delinquencies 10.17.08
The current economic climate is hitting consumers hard. Not only are Americans spending less, but they are also having a more difficult time paying their bills. - More Americans treating credit cards as cash 10.16.08
For years, many of us have been habitually using plastic to do everything from buying an airline ticket to paying for a pack of gum. - Consumers lock up their wallets 10.16.08
It seems that the era of booming consumer spending in the U.S. may have finally come to an end - at least temporarily. - Pre-approved credit offers dwindling fast 10.15.08
Remember when you used to open up your mailbox to find a flurry of colorful envelopes, all eagerly announcing that you were pre-approved for a credit card? - GMAC raises credit standards for car loans 10.14.08
Think you have pretty good credit? Well, pretty good may not count for what it used to in this new economic climate. - The case of the shrinking credit limit 10.10.08
When cash flow is tight, you know you can rely on your credit card to take care of routine expenses such as gas and groceries, right? - The psychology of credit card payments 10.08.08
When you receive your credit card bill, do you find your vision blurring over as you stare at all of the figures, until your eyes finally settle on the minimum payment? - No need to put the brakes on a car purchase 10.07.08
Amid the current economic uncertainty, there may be certain big purchases that you are temporarily putting on the back burner, such as a new car. - Christmas deals for shoppers, courtesy of the credit crunch 10.06.08
Even though October has barely begun, you may already be planning your spending strategy for the holidays, in an effort to maximize cheer while minimizing debt. - College costs - will they ever stop rising? 10.06.08
With the new college semester underway, parents across the U.S. may be mourning their empty nests - and possibly also mourning their empty bank accounts. - Now is 'ideal time to get a car bargain' 09.30.08
With the 2009 model year getting underway tomorrow (October 1st), now could be an ideal time for consumers to get a good deal on a 2008 vehicle, it has been reported. - Prospective retirement savers advised to first tackle debts 09.30.08
It is important for people looking to make provisions for later life to get to grips with their debts. - ABA reveals credit card cutbacks 09.29.08
Numerous banks are starting to cut back on the borrowing limits available on their credit card, it has been reported. - Credit card users 'should keep debt utilization in check' 09.29.08
People should be aware of the impact using a high proportion of the credit available to them can have, it has been reported.
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