Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Weekly Savings Tip: November 9, 2009


Smart Use of Credit Cards

As the country begins to recover from the recession, retails sales are improving and, along with them, credit card use is on the rise, according to MasterCard Advisors. As the holiday shopping season begins, keep the following in mind when applying for or using a credit card:

• Most credit cards offer rewards, such as airline tickets, cash back, car insurance or other incentives. Paying off your monthly balance to avoid interest will allow you to fully reap the benefits of the card.

• Credit card applications may often contain low interest rates to attract customers. Before you sign, research varying interest rates, minimum payment requirements, grace periods, annual fees and credit limits.

• Understand the impact that cancelling a credit card will have on your credit score. If the card is one that you've had for awhile and consistently paid off, it could negatively affect your credit rating.

• Using credit card pay off calculators will help you realize what it will take to pay off your balance, and what personal spending habits you can change to meet your repayment goals.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips!

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