Tuesday, December 21, 2010

8 Things Credit Card Holders Must Be Aware Of

Consumers have so many things to learn about credit cards. Not only should they be well-aware of the different types of accounts, they also need to be knowledgeable about the basics of credit management as well as the importance of building good history. Why are these things important?

Well, they can help first-time cardholders in choosing and in managing their very first credit cards. And aside from this, their basic insights about charge cards can also help them avoid committing costly mistakes as they apply for different programs.

Now what basic information about these plastic cash should all consumers, especially students, must be well-aware of? Let us discuss some of them.

Eight Things You Need to Know Your Cards

1. There are various types of programs. Some people think that all cards are one and the same. But this is a misconception. They may have the same shape and size but they do not carry the same terms, conditions and features. For example, a student credit card possesses different characteristics and features from the ones present in bad credit programs, like secured and prepaid debit cards.

So before applying for a particular type of credit program, make sure that you are well-aware of all the card programs that are available to you. You will be more likely to choose the right program if you know exactly what options are being offered by various companies and issuers.

2. They carry a variety of features. Features include the interest rates, credit limits, payment terms, fees and charges as well as other credit conditions. These are the things that you compare as you try to find the program that will be most suitable to your needs and expectations.

As was mentioned above, different credit cards possess different features. So, what might be offered in student cards may not be present in the fine print of secured or prepaid cards. And the interest rates carried by most unsecured cards may not be equal to the those charged in secured accounts. This goes to show that you have to be keen in shopping and comparing different features. In so doing you can surely find the program that will work to your advantage.

3. Charges are billed every month. After you get approved for your very first account, you must remember that there is more to credit card billing than receiving a mailed billing statement every month. Thus, you must try to understand the billing process of your selected company. This way, you can easily grasp what and how your credit card issuer charges you each month.

4. Payment of fees and charges required. Issuers generate profit from the fees, penalties and charges that they impose on the programs they offer. So, when you apply for an account, expect that you will be asked to pay several fees and charges before you can use your own card.

5. Choose your program wisely. You should remember to take your time in shopping and comparing the features and terms of the cards you intend to acquire. In so doing, you can choose the right student credit card account that will certainly meet your expectations.

6. Be diligent and persevering. If this is your first time to build your history, your card will be the key to establishing your credit reputation, then you need to be diligent and persevering in conducting researches prior to your card application. You also need to display a great deal of patience especially when you get turned down for the program you are applying for.

7. Pay your bills on time and in full each month. No matter what cards you intend to get, make sure that you always pay your bills on time and in full each month. These activities will help you maintain excellent credit ratings that will eventually increase your chances of getting approved for the credit accounts you will be taking in the future.

8. Resist the urge of making multiple applications. Applying for too many cards can cause a negative effect on your standing. This can inflict damage to your rating and can reduce your chances of getting approved for your next application. This is why you need to fight the urge of getting too many credit lines. Instead you need to be contented with the ones you already have.

Image Credit: 1-million-dollar-blog.com

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Effective Financial Strategies for Students In College

Going to college can bring many privileges but along with that, comes the responsibilities. If you are about to enter college or has just started your freshman year, this article presents useful tips on money management and financial strategies for young people. 



On Money Management

Use your student credit card for schooling purposes. A student credit card is a great tool for building credit history but if used incorrectly it can also you to bad credit. Therefore, make sure that all your charges are officially for your education. More importantly, you must make sure that you will be able to pay back your balance in full before your due date ends. This way, you can avoid the interest rate fee and protect your credit history as well. 

For non-schooling purchases, use cash. If you want to reward yourself with a new gadget or a new pair of shoes, do not charge it on your credit card. Instead, save your cash and wait until you have saved enough to buy that item.

Keep track of your own spending. Train yourself to become financially responsible by monitoring your own spending. A lot of student credit cards today provide an Online Account Access which means you can check your account from your computer at anytime. Check if there are unfamiliar purchases reflected in your account. If there are, call up your issuer right away to correct those charges. 

If you notice that you’ve been using a large percentage of your credit limit, then put yourself in check and do the necessary adjustments. For instance, you may strictly keep yourself from using your credit card on new purchases until you manage to completely pay off your balances.

Create a budget plan. Based upon your monthly allowance, create a realistic plan to make sure that your budget is properly distributed according to your expenses. Be sure to set aside your bills payment and some amount for your personal savings. Having a written plan will enable you to see where your money goes so that splurges or unplanned purchases can be avoided.

Keep financial records in a safe place. After checking your monthly credit card statement, keep it in a safe place as you may be able to use them for reference in the future. Aside from your credit card bills, be sure to keep purchase receipts and other important financial documents.

Protect your personal information. College students are not exempted against the threat of fraud and identity theft. Educate yourself about the strategies used by identity thieves so you can be alerted against their tactics. Be cautious about giving away your personal information especially your Social Security number, credit card account numbers, etc.

Be frugal. There are many ways on which you can be smarter and save money. For example, you can check out used or second-hand books at a cheaper price instead of buying new ones. Before buying anything, always take the extra time to shop around and compare prices. Never buy anything out of impulse. Wait until you’ve been able to seriously consider whether you really need it. Recognize the difference between NEEDS and WANTS.

Image credits: www.mynmi.com

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Credit Card Guidelines for College Students

According to a survey, the average freshman student has more than $1,500 worth of credit card debt.  That staggering figure was revealed by Nellie Mae in 2005.  Students have a very substantial amount of debt even before they graduate, and become a member of the workforce. 

 This situation is dire, yet much can be done so this does not happen.  Just by teaching students to use their credit cards responsibly, they can protect themselves from the threat of bad debt and in turn build up a solid credit history.  In this article, we have presented simple but valuable steps on managing a credit card, especially for young people and college students. 

Don’t fall for credit cards with introductory rates. A credit card with a reasonable interest rate that would last is a better option than a credit card with zero percent introductory rate that is bound to skyrocket after only six months or so.  Since it will be your first time, you need a reliable credit card – one that can help you establish and maintain a good credit history. 

Know what you have to pay for. Aside from a low interest rate, be sure to check out what the other fees are as well.  Check the annual fee, late penalty, over-the-limit fee, and other transaction charges that you may incur once you use your credit card. 

Credit card rewards. If you plan to get a student credit card with rewards, be sure that you will be able to pay completely every month.  Otherwise, you may get charged with a high rate of interest.  Better yet, if you’re not sure whether the rules of the reward program fit your lifestyle, go with a non-reward credit card with a low interest rate. 

Stick with one credit card. Many young people get at least two or more student credit cards, thinking that more accounts would boost their credit rating.  But achieving a high credit score does not depend on the number of credit cards you own.  On the contrary, a good credit score depends on how well you can manage each account. 

Thus, even if you own just one credit card, if you use it regularly and you are consistent in submitting your payments on time, you can surely build good credit and make a good impression to future creditors. 

As a student, it is strongly recommended that you stick with one account to avoid the risks.  First, having multiple credit cards may encourage more spending, since you can always charge it to one of your credit cards and pay at a later time.  Second, managing different credit card accounts can prove to be difficult especially if you have incurred a balance on each card.  Also, paying off your debts can become a burden and if you fail to pay on time, you will be charged with additional fees on interest rate and late penalty, charges.  All these trouble can be avoided by focusing on just one card. Additionally, student credit cards often have very high interest rates (that’s what you usually get when you have little or no credit), so stacking up those credit cards also means stacking their interest rates against you. 

Spend wisely. Ultimately, avoiding the bad credit trap will depend on your own spending.  Before charging purchases to your student credit card, see to it that you will be able to pay on time.  Always remind yourself of the possible consequences.  And if you’re not certain whether you can pay on time, then do not charge it on your credit card.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Good Credit Tips for Students

The most thrilling thing about being a college student is becoming more independent. Financial advisers do recommend that the best time to begin building credit history is while you are a student. With the modifications to the credit card law, it is still a lot easier for a student to get his/her first credit card. If you are a student yourself, what should you to maintain a favorable credit record? Here are some tips:

1.Choose the right credit cards for students. For people who are below 21 years old, they can apply for a student credit card with the help of a co-signer. On the other hand, if you can prove that you have an independent source of income, you can be eligible for a student credit card even without a co-signer.

When selecting your first credit card, ensure that you understand the Terms and Conditions of your bank or credit card issuer. Remember that there is certainly not one credit card that will match everyone’s lifestyle. Thus, you must examine your own needs and look for a credit card that will match up to your lifestyle.

A credit card with a low interest rate is best as it minimizes the risk of debt build-up should you need to occasionally carry a balance in your account. Even so, keep in mind that the surest way to maintain good credit history is to use your card only on important expenses and to pay off your complete balance on time.

2. Use your credit card regularly. Simply placing your student credit card in your wallet is not going to help you build good credit. To be able to build credit, you should demonstrate your capability to manage debts and repayment. Use your card on important purchases but keep your charges minimal so you can make your payments on time.


Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Building Good Credit with Your First Credit Card

The significance of building a favorable credit record has always been highlighted by credit help specialists. As the interest rate continues to increase, building a good credit rating is definitely an important step today. Aside from the opportunity to obtain quick approval, an outstanding credit history can win you the lowest possible rates and flexible repayment terms from loan companies and insurance providers.

For people looking for work, good credit can spell the difference between getting employed or not. Although a hiring officer cannot turn down an applicant based on his/her credit rating alone, it can be a significant factor that will give you the advantage over other applicants competing for the same position.

For this reason students in college are urged to start building credit history by obtaining their student credit cards. Once you have your first credit card, what are the steps you can do to make sure that you will build good credit? Take a look at the following suggestions:

Check your credit report. It is not unusual for credit reports to contain errors. There are instances when someone else’s credit details may get mixed up in your report and inflict damage to your score. Identity Theft is also a common cause for having bad credit.

Consumers are eligible for a free credit report each year from the AnnualCreditReport.com. It is important to check out your credit report at least twice a year to make sure that it contains accurate record.

Understand how credit scoring works. Knowing how your credit score is determined can help you become more mindful on maintaining your credit report. You must remember that payment history or timeliness of payment makes up 35% of your total rating. Therefore, even occasional late payments can hurt your rating.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Credit Building Options for Students

As you make way towards the corporate world, you must strive to build personal credit history as well. Thus, by the time you graduate from college, you’ll be in a much better position to deal with financial companies and even potential employers.

Students have several options when starting to build credit. Consider the following options and choose one that suits you best:

Student Credit Cards. Credit card issuers grant easy approval to college students. In fact, they even distribute fliers at campuses to encourage young people to sign up. However, under the New Credit Card Law, such marketing campaigns will not be allowed within 1,000 feet at school campuses.

The New Law also restricts young adults who are under the age of 21 from getting their first credit card unless they have a co-signer or they can show proof of independent income. If you are under 21, you must have a parent or a guardian with good credit history to back up your account.

Before signing up for a college credit card, carefully evaluate your choices. Compare the rates and fees, as well as the Terms of using the card. Start with one student credit card only to reduce the risk of overspending and bad debt.

Secured Credit Cards. A secured credit card is another option since anyone can get approved, even with no credit or bad credit history. However, secured cards require a cash deposit which can range from $200 to $500 and up. The amount of deposit you make will also define your credit limit.

Read Full Article: Credit Building Options for Students

Thursday, May 6, 2010

How to Get Out of Student Credit Card Debt

When put to use responsibly, credit card for students is a perfect tool for establishing good credit history. A survey done by Nellie Mae, a leading student loan provider, shows that many young people graduate from college carrying an average of $2,700 to as much $7,000 cost of credit card debt.

For anyone who is currently trapped in bad debt, there is no reason to panic. Check out the following steps to wipe out your debts one step at a time.

1. Take charge. Even when your personal credit card debt looks impossible to pay, do not give in to frustration. Be positive and do the necessary steps immediately and develop strong determination.

2. Know your debts. Before thinking of a solution, you should be aware about the precise status of your accounts. Evaluate your billing statements. Get a copy of your credit profile so that you can assess your financial records.

See to it that there aren’t any unauthorized charges in any of your accounts. In case you find errors, contact your bank without delay to fix the problem. Should your creditor ignore your complaint, send a letter of dispute to the credit agency that released your report. An investigation will be conducted within 30 days. Next, you will be advised about the result of the investigation and sent an corrected copy of your credit report.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Points to Ponder for Teens Applying for a Student Rewards Credit Card

Without a guide, teenagers may have a hard time choosing from all the credit cards for students in the market. If want a credit card for student with rewards, then you’ll be glad to know that there are issuers that offer reward credit cards especially for college students.


Below is a guide that you can use before signing up for a student rewards credit card:


Which Type of Reward Suits Me? Reward programs vary from – Cash Back, Gas Rewards, Travel Rewards, and more. No matter how attractive the reward program may seem to be, you want to consider if it matches with your spending and lifestyle.


For instance, a lot of people are attracted to Frequent Flyer Miles credit card because they want to get the chance to fly for free. However, if you are an occasional spender, it can take you a very long time to get the free flight. If the card imposes a blackout date, you may not even get rewarded at all.


Matching a student reward credit card with your lifestyle is the key to enjoying the incentives it offers. Instead of focusing on the possibility of getting reward, be more realistic, and think about how you can benefit from your reward credit card without waiting for a very long time.


Read Full Article: Points to Ponder for Teens Applying for a Student Rewards Credit Card

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Student Credit Cards: First Step To Becoming Financially Responsible

How do we teach our children, especially teens, to become responsible enough to handle their own spending? Some say that simply telling kids to be financially responsible is enough. However, is it not better to let them experience it first-hand?


One way of letting your children handle their finances is by giving them a credit cards for students.


Importance of Having A Student Credit Card


A student credit card is one way to build credit. This is great for teens since they can establish their own credit history while in high school or college. Credit history is important when applying for a loan or even a job. Having a good credit score will help immediately sends out a good impression to potential lenders and employers. They can also learn some of the basic finance skills they can make use of in the future.


Owning a credit card is convenient for college students, especially those who stay in boarding schools, away from home. With a credit card, they won’t have to always ask for cash from their parents each time they need to pay for something (i.e. projects).


Another advantage of having a student credit card is that students working during summer breaks can. pay off their bills from their personal earnings. This experience will teach them about the value of hard work and frugality.


Read Full Article: Student Credit Cards: First Step To Becoming Financially Responsible

Monday, March 1, 2010

Easy Steps When Applying For A Student Credit Card

Students, especially those who are in college, sometimes face financial difficulties due to the rising costs of books, tuition fees and materials for projects. It is really expensive to go to college but education is very important.

For college students who work during summer, student credit cards can be of great help. You can use your credit card to purchase items or pay tuition fees when cash is not readily available.

A helpful tip: The best time to apply for a student credit card is now. Why? A New Credit Card Law is passed and will take effect on February 22, 2010. It does not stop students from getting a credit card, however, it makes student credit card application and approval a bit more difficult.

Applicants who are under 21 years old must have a primary card holder. The New Credit Card Law also prohibits credit card companies from marketing their products on campuses or 1000 feet within any campus and even school-sponsored events.


Read Full Article: Easy Steps When Applying For A Student Credit Card

Friday, February 26, 2010

Best Tips on Using Credit Cards for Students

Based on the 2009 study by Sallie Mae, a leading financing company, the average college student has at least four credit cards yet only 17% of these cardholders consistently pay off their monthly balances.


Although having a college credit card can be advantageous for building early credit history, teenagers must be very careful about how they spend with their cards. The modifications made to the Credit Card Law such as not being qualified for your credit cards for students unless you have a co-signer or proof of independent income are supposed to reduce the number of bad credit cases amongst college students.


If you’re a student who has a credit card, what can you do to prevent bad debt and the effects it can bring? Check out these tips:


Avoid carrying a balance. To avoid debt build up and maintain good credit rating, completely pay off your balance. Don’t be happy with just making the minimum due payment. It can save you a great deal by not paying the rate and additional fees.


Read Full Article: Best Tips on Using Credit Cards for Students




Thursday, February 25, 2010

Applying for Your First Credit Card

If you’re a student, the simplest way to improve credit history would be to get your first credit card. With the changest to the credit card law, it is now a prerequisite to have a co-signer. In this case, your parent or guardian can help you out. However, if you can show proof of your own income, you’ll be able to obtain your student credit cards without a co-signer.

In the following paragraphs, we will talk about tips that you ought to take into account before applying for your first credit card:

Go with a low rate card. Rates of interest vary from one student credit card to the next. Rates can go from 15% to 35%. Look for a minimal APR credit card to protect you from debt build-up in case you have to carry over your balance to the next month. Look out for credit cards that have unbelievably low variable rate. Keep in mind that variable rates can increase at anytime depending on the Prime Rate.

Read Full Article: Applying for Your First Credit Card

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Credit Building Tips for College Students

In the past years, building credit history was easier for students with the help of student credit cards. Under the New Credit Card Law, students can only get approved for their student credit cards if they have a co-signer or if they can show proof of independent income. The amendment of the new law was meant to cut down the number of bankruptcy and bad credit cases among young people.

By co-signing a student credit card account, a parent or an adult can help a youngster choose the right card and give advice on proper management. If you are a student, here are ways on how you can build up your personal credit history without falling in the trap of bad credit.

Choose wisely. Do not sign up for a college credit card for the wrong reasons. Choose a credit card because it has reasonable interest rate and fees, no hidden charges, and fair terms. You may need to take some time comparing different offers from credit card issuers. If you are not familiar with credit cards, ask your parent or someone with good credit history to help you out.

Read full Article: Credit Building Tips for College Students

Monday, February 15, 2010

Top 10 Tips for Student Credit Card Owners

Owning your first credit card can be an exciting experience. However, being a credit cardholder means more than just easier spending. Remember that you have a responsibility to pay your debts on time and use your student credit card according to the terms of your credit card company.

How can you use your credit cards for students in building good credit history? Check out these top ten tips for you:

Charge ONLY if you can pay it back in cash. To be on the safe side, you need to consider repayment before charging anything to your card. Will you be able to pay back that purchase on time? Do you or will you have the cash to make full payment on or before the due date? If you have doubts, the wise thing to do is to skip the purchase and wait until you have the means to do so.


Read full Article: Top 10 Tips for Student Credit Card Owners




Tuesday, February 9, 2010

How Students Can Manage Their Student Credit Cards

Surveys prove that many college students graduate with unpaid debts on their student loans which can amount to $20,000. Those who are still in college are faced with credit card debts amounting to $7,000 or even more. Even worse, there are many at a young age of 15-25 have already filed for bankruptcy. If you’re a student who owns student credit card, these staggering surveys should definitely concern you. What can you do to avoid falling victim of bad credit?

Here are some valuable tips you can in your personal life as a student to help you manage your finances wisely.

Make a Commitment

Bad credit usually results from splurging or uncontrolled spending. In order to avoid paying for unreasonably high balances, as a student you should have the will to restrain yourself from spending on things that are not really necessary. Every time you plan on buying, ask yourself, “do I really need this or do I just want it?” If you know that you can get by without making that purchase then, have the will to back out.


Thursday, February 4, 2010

Teaching Students about Credit Security

A lot of college students are excited about acquiring their first credit cards. Despite the ease and convenience that credit card brings, it is very important to learn how to handle a credit card for students properly. Reports show that a lot of college students graduate with unpaid debts on their account. They have used their student credit cards without control and have put themselves in a difficult situation.

Credit Card Companies Pursue Students

It is interesting to note that some financial experts believe that credit card companies view students as a very lucrative market. Students have the tendency to spend more not only for their school necessities but for other things as well.

Read Full Article: Teaching Students about Credit Security



Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Credit Cards and High School Students

The Federal law doesn't provide any restrictions about issuing credit cards to minors. In fact, credit card companies consider teenagers as a very profitable market. Most credit card companies often require a co-signer when a minor applies credit cards for students. When a teenager reaches the age of 18, he has the right to sign-up for a credit ca on his name even without a cosigner.

Are Student Credit Cards an Advantage?

Some parents feel that providing their kids with credit cards while they are still in high school help them learn about money early in life. With proper guidance and support, obtaining a student credit card can help young people learn about how to handle their finances properly.

A student credit card is a great way in establishing a credit history in preparation for their future. Some credit card companies refuse to grant credit card approval for those without a credit history. But with the help of a parent as a co-signer, it will be much easier to get a credit card.

Or a Disadvantage?

On the other hand, a young person with a student credit card can also get into trouble. The convenience that a student credit card can bring may lead to uncontrolled spending. With just one swipe of the card, they can purchase an item easily at any time. Eating out in restaurants with friends is also just as convenient. They can easily do so without bringing with them any cash.

The problem comes when it's time to pay the bills. At the end of the month, their billing statement may reveal that they have spent more than their allotted monthly budget. It is also a possibility that a student who does not think about his spending for the past month has already exceeded his allotted credit limit.


Read Full Article: Credit Cards and High School Students


Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Avoid Student Credit Card Debt

Students are prone to acquiring credit card debt. Why? Because most young people do not know or are not paying attention on how to handle their credit cards correctly. Here are some practical advice on the proper use of student credit cards and how to avoid credit card debt.


It’s Just a Marketing Strategy


Be aware that credit card companies are experts when it comes to marketing their business. They spend millions of dollars in using different marketing strategies to get your attention, to grab your interest and move you to sign up with their company. Credit card companies may give away freebies, offer instant approval, and other promotional tactics which can be very hard to resist. Don’t be too naive in applying for a credit card just so you can get a free coffee mug or t-shirt. Remember, there’s more to it than just the freebie.


Don’t Settle for High Rates


There are so many different credit card companies that are competing in the market today that students don’t have to settle for a credit card with unsatisfactory features. Some credit card companies charge high rates for students because they haven’t yet established their own credit. However, there are still other credit card issuers who offer reasonable rates even for students like you. Don’t rush in signing up that application as if there’s no tomorrow. Take your time in choosing the right student credit card with the most reasonable rates. Compare the rates and features that each credit card provides. Only then can you be sure that you’ve chosen the right one.


Read Full Article: Avoid Student Credit Card Debt



Thursday, January 28, 2010

Why Credit Card Companies Target College Students

Many credit card companies see the marketing potential in college students. Credit card companies use promotional offers and free gifts like t-shirts, coffee mugs, or CDs to entice students on signing up for their company.

Have you ever asked why? Loyalty is a good reason. Credit card companies are competing to be the first credit card that the student will own. By being their first credit card, it is very likely that even when they graduate from college and enter the corporate world, students will be upgrading their credit cards with the same credit card company.

Students are Big Spenders

Aside from this, college students are great spenders. Let’s face it, credit card companies love customers who spend much using their credit cards. The more a person uses his credit card, the better it is for the business. And students are usually prone to over spending or using their credit cards excessively not just for their school necessities but on luxuries as well.

Despite the fact that college students are still in school and most do not have stable jobs to finance them, credit card companies are still doing everything to encourage these students on obtaining a student credit cards. Furthermore, credit card companies are encouraging students to use their credit cards as often as they can.


Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Student Credit Card Mistakes

Students are prone to get caught in credit card debt. Let’s take a closer look at the following mistakes that students make with their student credit cards.

Signing up for the first student credit card offer

As you enter college, you might receive a lot of credit card offers from different credit card issuers.

If you’re not going to think about it carefully, you might just sign up for the first offer that you think sounds good enough for a credit card. It’s easy to get one enticed by a credit card offer. Most credit card companies make a lot of exciting promotions that may be hard to resist. However, if you’ll read the complete terms and conditions, you might be surprised to see that there are certain charges that are higher than expected.

To Sign or Not to Sign

To avoid signing up for the wrong credit card offer, don’t just read the best features of the credit card. Take the time to read the terms and conditions which can be found in the credit card’s website. This way, you’ll get to know about all the rates and charges that come with your credit card. Check out websites that give credit card reviews on different credit cards for students. These websites compile all possible student credit cards in the market, along with their main features in just one page. This will help you see what choices you have and compare them.

In addition, since this is your first time applying for a credit card, it will be better if you seek advice from your family or relatives who may know more about credit cards than you do. Better, you may seek assistance from a financial consultant who can give you an objective and informed opinion about the best student credit card.

Read Full Article: Student Credit Card Mistakes

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Credit Cards and Students