Negotiate Your Way To Lower Credit Card APR's!
By James Dimmitt
I have three major credit card accounts that I've had for many
years. The other night I was reconciling my monthly statements
and noticed a large discrepancy in the APR's (annual percentage
rate) I was paying on these three accounts.
My first card, card "A", has an APR of 8.9%; card "B" has an
APR of 9.9%; and card "C" has an APR of 17.9% -Ouch ! I knew I
had to see what I could do about this"out of range" interest
rate on card "C". So I considered a couple of options.
One choice would be to transfer or switch the balance on card
"C" to a new card with a lower APR. This would be very easy
to do since I had received several pre-approved credit card
offers earlier in the week. They included "convenience checks"
that I could use to payoff that high APR credit card, thereby
transferring that balance to a new account.
I decided against this option however because I didn't really
want to add another account to my credit profile. Your credit
score, that "magic number" that establishes your
credit-worthiness to merchants can be affected negatively by
having too many accounts.
So instead I decided to contact the issuer of credit card "C"
to see what they could do about that 17.9% APR which seemed so
out of line with my two other credit card accounts. I reasoned
this was the better of the two options before me since I've
already established a relationship with this company; a
relationship which included many years of on-time payments
which reflects positively in my credit profile with the credit
bureaus.
I called the 800 number and talked to a very a nice gentleman.
I explained to him the reason for my call; two other credit card
issuers offered me a much more reasonable interest rate and so
I'd like to see what his company could offer to me.
I wasn't surprised when he replied that he could lower my
current rate from 17.9% to 15.9%. Since the credit card
company makes a profit from the interest rate they charge I
didn't expect to be offered the best or lowest rate right off
the bat. I prepared myself to have to do a little negotiating.
And so I reminded him that my account was in goodstanding and
had been for many years now. I had not made any late payments
and always made more than the minimum payment due.
Again he informed me that the best he could offer was a rate of
15.9% that would be good until August 2003. So now not only
was I not feeling like I was getting a very good deal but this
new rate would only be a "promotional" rate !
I remained calm and friendly, knowing that yelling at him or
telling him what a "lousy" company he worked for would be
counterproductive to my end goal - a lower and better APR for
this account. I thaned him for his time but told him I didn't
feel this was a very good offer.
And then the "magic" happened. He asked if I would like to
speak to an account manager and that perhaps they could better
assist me. I thanked him for his time and assistance and was
then transferred to an account manager.
I explained my dilemma to her and reasoned with her that as a
good customer I expected a much better rate. She empathized
with me and then offered to upgrade my account to their
platinum status which carried an APR of 9.9% ! In addition,
the platinum card offered many more benefits and had no annual
fee. She also assured me that this was a "contract rate" and
not a promotional rate. I would keep the same account number
so I would not be opening a "new" account but simply upgrading
my current account status.
Next time you are reconciling your monthly statements take a
close look at the various APR's you are paying. If you notice
a disparity in the rates you are paying, call your card issuers
to negotiate a better rate. My persistence paid off. Be
persistent - it can pay off for you too!
About the Author: © 2005,
http://www.yourfreecreditreportnow.com Author: James H. Dimmitt
James is editor of “To Your Credit” a FREE weekly newsletter
focusing on managing your personal finances and credit.
Subscribe and get a FREE copy of your credit report when you
visit: http://www.yourfreecreditreportnow.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Friday, July 27, 2007
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Wireless Credit Card Terminals
Avoiding Credit Card Traps
By James Dimmitt
The next time you open your credit card statement, take a
closer look at the small insert titled “changes to your credit
card agreement”. You know the one I’m speaking about. It’s
that small, folded paper written in legalese that you promise
to read some other time (but of course that time never comes)
or you just discard it with the other “junk” inserts.
First and foremost you must understand that using your credit
card after you’ve received this notification results in your
automatic “agreement” to the new terms in the notice. To
prevent these new terms from affecting your account you must
stop using that credit card immediately or by the date given in
the notification statement.
The most common modifications to credit card agreements include
new APR’s (annual percentage rates), new fees and/or changes to
existing fees, or a change to the grace period on your account.
The grace period is the number of days during which any credit
used for purchases may be repaid in full without incurring a
finance charge.
Not knowing or not keeping track of the dollar amount limit on
your card is another trap you should avoid. Credit card
issuers will allow you to charge a small amount over the limit
set on your account. However, don’t be surprised when you get
hit with an “over limit fee”, usually around $35.00 or higher,
on your next statement. Also, be prepared for your APR to be
increased if you go over your credit limit.
You’ll also trigger an increase to your interest rate if you
miss your payment due date. Some companies consider your
payment late if not received by noon or 1 p.m. on the date due.
Along with the higher rate, you’ll also pay a “late fee” of $29
on up. Be sure to use the company’s preprinted envelope when
sending your payment. These envelopes allow the pre-printed
bar code to be scanned by the post office so that it can be
delivered more efficiently.
If you’ve counted on those few extra days from the time you
mail your check and the time the check clears your bank,
beware! Many credit card issuers have switched from the
traditional method of processing checks to a new electronic
process. This new system shaves off a day or more from the
traditional method it normally takes for your check to clear by
electronically debiting your account.
If you’re considering paying your credit card bills online,
check to see if any additional fees will be charged for using
this type of payment. I recently received an e-mail message
from one of my credit card companies announcing how easy it
would be to make my payments online. Included in fine print at
the bottom of the e-mail was this note - “A fee of up to $14.95
may be charged for this service and will be deducted from your
checking account”. Hmmm, spend 37 cents on postage and mail my
payment five days before the due date or pay now and get charged
an additional $14.95 fee? I’ll bet you can guess which choice I
made.
Taking the time to carefully read and understand your credit
card agreement now will help you save money by avoiding
unnecessary fees or climbing interest rates later down the
road.
About the Author: © 2005,
http://www.yourfreecreditreportnow.com Author: James H. Dimmitt
James is editor of “To Your Credit” a FREE weekly newsletter
focusing on managing your personal finances and credit.
Subscribe and get a FREE copy of your credit report when you
visit: http://www.yourfreecreditreportnow.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
By James Dimmitt
The next time you open your credit card statement, take a
closer look at the small insert titled “changes to your credit
card agreement”. You know the one I’m speaking about. It’s
that small, folded paper written in legalese that you promise
to read some other time (but of course that time never comes)
or you just discard it with the other “junk” inserts.
First and foremost you must understand that using your credit
card after you’ve received this notification results in your
automatic “agreement” to the new terms in the notice. To
prevent these new terms from affecting your account you must
stop using that credit card immediately or by the date given in
the notification statement.
The most common modifications to credit card agreements include
new APR’s (annual percentage rates), new fees and/or changes to
existing fees, or a change to the grace period on your account.
The grace period is the number of days during which any credit
used for purchases may be repaid in full without incurring a
finance charge.
Not knowing or not keeping track of the dollar amount limit on
your card is another trap you should avoid. Credit card
issuers will allow you to charge a small amount over the limit
set on your account. However, don’t be surprised when you get
hit with an “over limit fee”, usually around $35.00 or higher,
on your next statement. Also, be prepared for your APR to be
increased if you go over your credit limit.
You’ll also trigger an increase to your interest rate if you
miss your payment due date. Some companies consider your
payment late if not received by noon or 1 p.m. on the date due.
Along with the higher rate, you’ll also pay a “late fee” of $29
on up. Be sure to use the company’s preprinted envelope when
sending your payment. These envelopes allow the pre-printed
bar code to be scanned by the post office so that it can be
delivered more efficiently.
If you’ve counted on those few extra days from the time you
mail your check and the time the check clears your bank,
beware! Many credit card issuers have switched from the
traditional method of processing checks to a new electronic
process. This new system shaves off a day or more from the
traditional method it normally takes for your check to clear by
electronically debiting your account.
If you’re considering paying your credit card bills online,
check to see if any additional fees will be charged for using
this type of payment. I recently received an e-mail message
from one of my credit card companies announcing how easy it
would be to make my payments online. Included in fine print at
the bottom of the e-mail was this note - “A fee of up to $14.95
may be charged for this service and will be deducted from your
checking account”. Hmmm, spend 37 cents on postage and mail my
payment five days before the due date or pay now and get charged
an additional $14.95 fee? I’ll bet you can guess which choice I
made.
Taking the time to carefully read and understand your credit
card agreement now will help you save money by avoiding
unnecessary fees or climbing interest rates later down the
road.
About the Author: © 2005,
http://www.yourfreecreditreportnow.com Author: James H. Dimmitt
James is editor of “To Your Credit” a FREE weekly newsletter
focusing on managing your personal finances and credit.
Subscribe and get a FREE copy of your credit report when you
visit: http://www.yourfreecreditreportnow.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Monday, July 23, 2007
Wireless Credit Card Terminal
Want An Online Credit Card Merchant Account?
By Shane Penrod
An online credit card merchant account can help your business
in ways you might not have imagined. While it may seem as
though only high-ranking company executives or big-name
corporations might be interested in a merchant account, there
are many reasons why a small-scale entrepreneur or even a home
business owner might want to learn more about this unique
marketing and credit card payment tool.
One reason to consider an online credit card merchant account
is because you can apply directly through your company’s bank,
if you have been doing business with a local financial
institution. Chances are the bank can offer a merchant account
to business owners like you, but it is important to check the
terms and fees, since you may be able to get a better deal
elsewhere. Banks don’t always have the lowest prices on
accounts like this. You can browse the Internet or ask around
the business community to find out who has the lowest merchant
services account fees. The costs may include any combination of
the following: application fee, setup fee, gateway, maintenance
and service, annual membership, and others. However, some
account underwriters can waive some or all of these fees for
the right customer. Find out if your company is eligible for
these waivers or some type of discount before you apply.
Another reason to think about applying for an online credit
card merchant account is to upgrade your professional status
and enhance the way you do business. You don’t have to operate
in the mom-and-pop stage of development forever. Instead, you
can get the merchant account and start processing business
dealings faster and more efficiently than ever. Your customers
will admire and appreciate your efforts to make things work
better for them, and your employees will appreciate the time
saving steps that can be implemented with a merchant account.
When approved, your online credit card merchant account will
help you create a Website to represent your business on the
World Wide Web. Some underwriters provide free software and
setup while others charge for these services. Be sure that your
site offers an up-to-date image with plentiful information to
catch the browser’s eye and keep customers interested long
enough to make a sale. When they do decide to purchase
something, your merchant account setup will let them pay right
away with a credit card instead of waiting for a check to be
posted. The money will be funneled by the underwriter through a
gateway for deposit in your checking account.
With an online credit card merchant account, your Website can
soon become fully functional, alleviating much of the sales and
cashier work that your company may presently be handling. Your
time will be freed to deal with other aspects of the business,
perhaps the more creative venues. In the meantime the Website
will be automated enough to process payments without the help
of customer service, except for the occasional question or
problem, so keep someone available at least part-time for this
purpose.
Don’t wait for your competitors to jump at the chance to get
ahead of you. Find out now how you can apply for an affordable
online credit card merchant account.
About the Author: Shane Penrod is the owner of
http://www.merchant-account-quotes.com A site where you can
shop and compare multiple quotes from national leading merchant
account providers. http://www.merchant-account-quotes.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
By Shane Penrod
An online credit card merchant account can help your business
in ways you might not have imagined. While it may seem as
though only high-ranking company executives or big-name
corporations might be interested in a merchant account, there
are many reasons why a small-scale entrepreneur or even a home
business owner might want to learn more about this unique
marketing and credit card payment tool.
One reason to consider an online credit card merchant account
is because you can apply directly through your company’s bank,
if you have been doing business with a local financial
institution. Chances are the bank can offer a merchant account
to business owners like you, but it is important to check the
terms and fees, since you may be able to get a better deal
elsewhere. Banks don’t always have the lowest prices on
accounts like this. You can browse the Internet or ask around
the business community to find out who has the lowest merchant
services account fees. The costs may include any combination of
the following: application fee, setup fee, gateway, maintenance
and service, annual membership, and others. However, some
account underwriters can waive some or all of these fees for
the right customer. Find out if your company is eligible for
these waivers or some type of discount before you apply.
Another reason to think about applying for an online credit
card merchant account is to upgrade your professional status
and enhance the way you do business. You don’t have to operate
in the mom-and-pop stage of development forever. Instead, you
can get the merchant account and start processing business
dealings faster and more efficiently than ever. Your customers
will admire and appreciate your efforts to make things work
better for them, and your employees will appreciate the time
saving steps that can be implemented with a merchant account.
When approved, your online credit card merchant account will
help you create a Website to represent your business on the
World Wide Web. Some underwriters provide free software and
setup while others charge for these services. Be sure that your
site offers an up-to-date image with plentiful information to
catch the browser’s eye and keep customers interested long
enough to make a sale. When they do decide to purchase
something, your merchant account setup will let them pay right
away with a credit card instead of waiting for a check to be
posted. The money will be funneled by the underwriter through a
gateway for deposit in your checking account.
With an online credit card merchant account, your Website can
soon become fully functional, alleviating much of the sales and
cashier work that your company may presently be handling. Your
time will be freed to deal with other aspects of the business,
perhaps the more creative venues. In the meantime the Website
will be automated enough to process payments without the help
of customer service, except for the occasional question or
problem, so keep someone available at least part-time for this
purpose.
Don’t wait for your competitors to jump at the chance to get
ahead of you. Find out now how you can apply for an affordable
online credit card merchant account.
About the Author: Shane Penrod is the owner of
http://www.merchant-account-quotes.com A site where you can
shop and compare multiple quotes from national leading merchant
account providers. http://www.merchant-account-quotes.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Friday, July 20, 2007
Wireless Credit Card Terminals
Want To Accept Credit Card Services?
By Shane Penrod
When your business has expanded to the point that you’re ready
to accept credit card services, it is time for an upgrade of
payment options so that your clients can pay by credit as well
as by cash or check. This is not a difficult process, but you
will need to get started promptly if you want to stay even with
or get ahead of the competition.
To become eligible to accept credit card services, you need to
apply for a merchant services account. This is a special bank
or financial account that an underwriter provides to back
credit payments from clients to you. Do an Internet search to
find financial institutions who offer this service; many do,
and they would love to have your business. All you need do is
check out the prices and terms and go with the best deal you
can get. Be careful to read the fine print, however, as there
can be hidden fees like print statement costs, gateway fees,
and Website maintenance if you go the Internet route. You also
may be asked to pay annual membership fees or application fees,
so do your homework before selecting a company where you will
seek a merchant account. You can quickly apply via the Internet
or by telephone, and you can generally expect a fairly prompt
reply. In a matter of a few days, you could be ready to start
accepting credit card payments from current and new customers.
Your clients will appreciate your willingness to accept credit
card services, since many dislike the hassle of paying by cash
or check. If you plan to offer credit card payment options at
the physical location of your company or organization, you will
need to purchase or lease a credit card processor that can be
plugged in, perhaps one with a combination terminal and
printer. If an employee or you plan to deliver goods and
services, however, you may prefer to invest in a wireless
credit card processor that you can take with you in the van
wherever you go. A pager might be another useful acquisition,
as well as an e-check or debit processor. Don’t overextend
yourself, however. Only purchase what you can afford to pay for
each month. You can always buy more equipment or upgrade to more
features when they are truly needed.
To accept credit card services at a company Website, find a
good Web designer who will put up a quality site for your
business. Your merchant account will let you accept credit
payments onsite, which allows you to reduce staffing loads and
yet bring in more income. Your Website can be viewed from
customers all around the world at any time of the day or night,
and you can likewise receive credit payments from any location.
Many merchants claim their profit rises dramatically after they
start accepting credit on a Website.
Don’t let prosperity pass you by. Find out how you can open a
merchant account and learn to accept credit card services on
the Internet.
About the Author: Shane Penrod is the founder of
Merchant-Account-Quotes.com Specializing in allowing merchants
the ability to shop and compare multiple quotes from national
merchant account providers. For free quotes on merchant account
rates and fees, please go to
http://www.merchant-account-quotes.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
By Shane Penrod
When your business has expanded to the point that you’re ready
to accept credit card services, it is time for an upgrade of
payment options so that your clients can pay by credit as well
as by cash or check. This is not a difficult process, but you
will need to get started promptly if you want to stay even with
or get ahead of the competition.
To become eligible to accept credit card services, you need to
apply for a merchant services account. This is a special bank
or financial account that an underwriter provides to back
credit payments from clients to you. Do an Internet search to
find financial institutions who offer this service; many do,
and they would love to have your business. All you need do is
check out the prices and terms and go with the best deal you
can get. Be careful to read the fine print, however, as there
can be hidden fees like print statement costs, gateway fees,
and Website maintenance if you go the Internet route. You also
may be asked to pay annual membership fees or application fees,
so do your homework before selecting a company where you will
seek a merchant account. You can quickly apply via the Internet
or by telephone, and you can generally expect a fairly prompt
reply. In a matter of a few days, you could be ready to start
accepting credit card payments from current and new customers.
Your clients will appreciate your willingness to accept credit
card services, since many dislike the hassle of paying by cash
or check. If you plan to offer credit card payment options at
the physical location of your company or organization, you will
need to purchase or lease a credit card processor that can be
plugged in, perhaps one with a combination terminal and
printer. If an employee or you plan to deliver goods and
services, however, you may prefer to invest in a wireless
credit card processor that you can take with you in the van
wherever you go. A pager might be another useful acquisition,
as well as an e-check or debit processor. Don’t overextend
yourself, however. Only purchase what you can afford to pay for
each month. You can always buy more equipment or upgrade to more
features when they are truly needed.
To accept credit card services at a company Website, find a
good Web designer who will put up a quality site for your
business. Your merchant account will let you accept credit
payments onsite, which allows you to reduce staffing loads and
yet bring in more income. Your Website can be viewed from
customers all around the world at any time of the day or night,
and you can likewise receive credit payments from any location.
Many merchants claim their profit rises dramatically after they
start accepting credit on a Website.
Don’t let prosperity pass you by. Find out how you can open a
merchant account and learn to accept credit card services on
the Internet.
About the Author: Shane Penrod is the founder of
Merchant-Account-Quotes.com Specializing in allowing merchants
the ability to shop and compare multiple quotes from national
merchant account providers. For free quotes on merchant account
rates and fees, please go to
http://www.merchant-account-quotes.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Monday, July 16, 2007
Wireless Credit Card Terminals
Find The Best Credit Card Type
By Ron King
There are a variety of credit card types, each claiming to
offer you the best possible deal. Finding the programs and
incentives that works best for you is key to maintaining a good
credit card history.
Each type of credit card offer different benefits. Some are
geared toward the individual consumer, while others are set up
to work for small businesses. To find the type of card that
best fits your needs, let's review some of the options.
Business Cards
A business credit card offers the business owner an opportunity
to keep business and personal expenses separate. The card may
offer special business rewards and saving opportunities that go
above and beyond what the individual card owner has. Since money
management is essential for running a business successfully,
this card may offer an expense management service that helps
track outgoing money. You can obtain additional cards for
employees who may need them for travel expenses and such. You
may also have a higher credit limit than you normally would on
an individual card.
Student Cards
Many credit card companies will issue student cards with lower
credit limits and fewer incentives, helping new card users to
keep their spending in check. However, note that many college
students now graduate with credit balances averaging from
$3,000 to $7,000. With high interest rates, these debts can be
a real problem to pay off.
Debit Cards
Prepaid debit cards are 1 type of credit card that has grown
significantly in recent years. Although it works like a
traditional credit card when making a purchase, that is where
the similarity ends. With a prepaid debit card, you actually
set the credit limit yourself by depositing money into the
debit card’s account. The amount you deposit determines the
credit limit on that card. This is a great way to have the
convenience of a credit card without the possibility of
charging more than you can afford to pay off.
Cards for Bad Credit
Even with bad credit, it is possible to obtain a credit card.
These cards come with some restrictions not typically found on
other types of cards. Your credit limit will be lower and your
interest rate higher. Some may require you to have a secured
card, meaning you have to maintain a savings or some other type
of account that will cover the expenses on the credit card. Once
you have established that you will be responsible in your credit
handling, some, if not all, of your restrictions may be lifted.
Cash Back Cards
Many cards will now offer you cash-back incentives for using
their cards. Depending on how much your balance is, and how
often you use the card, you can earn cash back for your
purchases. Some companies offer 1% off your balance while
others, like Sears, will offer you cash off purchases made in
their store. Either way, if you are planning on using a card,
finding one that will offer you a cash incentive is a smart
choice.
Low-Interest Cards
One of the more recent additions to the credit card world is
the low-interest credit card. These cards offer a significantly
lower interest rate than most of the older cards you may already
have. As balance-transfer cards, most of them offer you the
option of transferring a balance from a higher interest rate
card and, for a specified period of time, your transferred
balance will be at either 0% interest or something quite low.
This can save you a fair amount of money if your plan is to pay
it off.
Reward and Incentive Cards
Since credit cards have become such a lucrative business, many
corporations have jumped on the bandwagon. Even airlines now
offer credit cards that come with a certain amount of frequent
flyer miles attached, depending on your balance and purchases.
If you do a fair amount of traveling, this can be a real bonus.
Along these same lines, reward credit cards are growing in
popularity. Competition is stiff, and many card companies are
now offering different reward or incentive options for using
their cards. Once you accumulate enough points, the rewards
pour in. These can be anything from travel insurance to small
appliances. If you use a card regularly, finding one with a
reward program can really pay off.
Instant Approval Cards
Another form of credit card is the instant approval card. Once
you fill out the application, a quick background check will be
done and you will have your approval almost immediately.
Regular cards can take up to 2 weeks to process. Although you
can get instant approval, this does not always mean you can get
instant credit. Some companies will supply you with a temporary
credit card number and allow you to begin making purchases
immediately, while others will not, due to an increase in
credit card fraud potential.
Protect Your Credit
Since there are so many options in choosing a credit card, you
should do a little research before you apply. Decide what type
of card best fits your needs and apply for that one. Don't go
overboard, though. Applying for too many cards will negatively
affect your credit rating.
And, above all, once you get your new credit card, use it
responsibly.
About the Author: Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer,
and web developer. Visit http://www.new-credit-card-now.com to
learn more about this fascinating subject. Copyright 2005 Ron
King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left
intact.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
By Ron King
There are a variety of credit card types, each claiming to
offer you the best possible deal. Finding the programs and
incentives that works best for you is key to maintaining a good
credit card history.
Each type of credit card offer different benefits. Some are
geared toward the individual consumer, while others are set up
to work for small businesses. To find the type of card that
best fits your needs, let's review some of the options.
Business Cards
A business credit card offers the business owner an opportunity
to keep business and personal expenses separate. The card may
offer special business rewards and saving opportunities that go
above and beyond what the individual card owner has. Since money
management is essential for running a business successfully,
this card may offer an expense management service that helps
track outgoing money. You can obtain additional cards for
employees who may need them for travel expenses and such. You
may also have a higher credit limit than you normally would on
an individual card.
Student Cards
Many credit card companies will issue student cards with lower
credit limits and fewer incentives, helping new card users to
keep their spending in check. However, note that many college
students now graduate with credit balances averaging from
$3,000 to $7,000. With high interest rates, these debts can be
a real problem to pay off.
Debit Cards
Prepaid debit cards are 1 type of credit card that has grown
significantly in recent years. Although it works like a
traditional credit card when making a purchase, that is where
the similarity ends. With a prepaid debit card, you actually
set the credit limit yourself by depositing money into the
debit card’s account. The amount you deposit determines the
credit limit on that card. This is a great way to have the
convenience of a credit card without the possibility of
charging more than you can afford to pay off.
Cards for Bad Credit
Even with bad credit, it is possible to obtain a credit card.
These cards come with some restrictions not typically found on
other types of cards. Your credit limit will be lower and your
interest rate higher. Some may require you to have a secured
card, meaning you have to maintain a savings or some other type
of account that will cover the expenses on the credit card. Once
you have established that you will be responsible in your credit
handling, some, if not all, of your restrictions may be lifted.
Cash Back Cards
Many cards will now offer you cash-back incentives for using
their cards. Depending on how much your balance is, and how
often you use the card, you can earn cash back for your
purchases. Some companies offer 1% off your balance while
others, like Sears, will offer you cash off purchases made in
their store. Either way, if you are planning on using a card,
finding one that will offer you a cash incentive is a smart
choice.
Low-Interest Cards
One of the more recent additions to the credit card world is
the low-interest credit card. These cards offer a significantly
lower interest rate than most of the older cards you may already
have. As balance-transfer cards, most of them offer you the
option of transferring a balance from a higher interest rate
card and, for a specified period of time, your transferred
balance will be at either 0% interest or something quite low.
This can save you a fair amount of money if your plan is to pay
it off.
Reward and Incentive Cards
Since credit cards have become such a lucrative business, many
corporations have jumped on the bandwagon. Even airlines now
offer credit cards that come with a certain amount of frequent
flyer miles attached, depending on your balance and purchases.
If you do a fair amount of traveling, this can be a real bonus.
Along these same lines, reward credit cards are growing in
popularity. Competition is stiff, and many card companies are
now offering different reward or incentive options for using
their cards. Once you accumulate enough points, the rewards
pour in. These can be anything from travel insurance to small
appliances. If you use a card regularly, finding one with a
reward program can really pay off.
Instant Approval Cards
Another form of credit card is the instant approval card. Once
you fill out the application, a quick background check will be
done and you will have your approval almost immediately.
Regular cards can take up to 2 weeks to process. Although you
can get instant approval, this does not always mean you can get
instant credit. Some companies will supply you with a temporary
credit card number and allow you to begin making purchases
immediately, while others will not, due to an increase in
credit card fraud potential.
Protect Your Credit
Since there are so many options in choosing a credit card, you
should do a little research before you apply. Decide what type
of card best fits your needs and apply for that one. Don't go
overboard, though. Applying for too many cards will negatively
affect your credit rating.
And, above all, once you get your new credit card, use it
responsibly.
About the Author: Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer,
and web developer. Visit http://www.new-credit-card-now.com to
learn more about this fascinating subject. Copyright 2005 Ron
King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left
intact.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Wireless Credit Card Terminals
International Credit Card Processing
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Morva]Thomas Morva
International credit card processing refers to the processing of multi-currency credit card payments. This enables one to offer products and services in over 169 different currencies and receive payment for them in over 29 remittance currencies. Business firms can thereby expand their business into new sales regions and offer a payment routine to customers from different regions of the world.
Banks and their subsidiaries are permitted to issue International Credit Cards. A single card issued would be valid in all countries where dollar transactions can be made. An international credit card helps one avail of services such as air ticket reservations, car rentals, and hotel reservations abroad. Credit card plans also include insurance coverage for theft and fraud.
Processing an international credit card involves authorizing credit cards, withdrawing funds and placing funds in the merchant?s bank account. For this processing, the merchant needs an international merchant account. The international merchant account is an agreement between a credit card processor and the merchant that establishes the rules for accepting credit card purchases and transferring funds. A description of how it works would be appropriate in this context. Imagine that a merchant in USA wants to sell products to a buyer in Europe. The merchant uses the credit card processing company for sale of pictures. The products are sold to the buyer for Euro and remittance will be made in dollars.
Some international credit cards are American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard, Visa, etc. Processing of credit cards is done automatically using appropriate software program. The service of an international credit card processing company can also be utilized for processing international credit cards. The credit card processor provides the expertise and merchant account to help businessmen accept credit cards from buyers of other countries. These companies provide Internet merchant account also so that the merchant can accept credit card online. There are several companies that offer credit card processing services anywhere in the world. [http://www.i-CreditCardProcessing.com]Credit Card Processing provides detailed information on Credit Card Processing, Online Credit Card Processing, Credit Card Processing Software, Wireless Credit Card Processing and more. Credit Card Processing is affiliated with [http://www.e-CreditCardTerminals.com]Wireless Credit Card Terminals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Morva http://EzineArticles.com/?International-Credit-Card-Processing&id=353156
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Morva]Thomas Morva
International credit card processing refers to the processing of multi-currency credit card payments. This enables one to offer products and services in over 169 different currencies and receive payment for them in over 29 remittance currencies. Business firms can thereby expand their business into new sales regions and offer a payment routine to customers from different regions of the world.
Banks and their subsidiaries are permitted to issue International Credit Cards. A single card issued would be valid in all countries where dollar transactions can be made. An international credit card helps one avail of services such as air ticket reservations, car rentals, and hotel reservations abroad. Credit card plans also include insurance coverage for theft and fraud.
Processing an international credit card involves authorizing credit cards, withdrawing funds and placing funds in the merchant?s bank account. For this processing, the merchant needs an international merchant account. The international merchant account is an agreement between a credit card processor and the merchant that establishes the rules for accepting credit card purchases and transferring funds. A description of how it works would be appropriate in this context. Imagine that a merchant in USA wants to sell products to a buyer in Europe. The merchant uses the credit card processing company for sale of pictures. The products are sold to the buyer for Euro and remittance will be made in dollars.
Some international credit cards are American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard, Visa, etc. Processing of credit cards is done automatically using appropriate software program. The service of an international credit card processing company can also be utilized for processing international credit cards. The credit card processor provides the expertise and merchant account to help businessmen accept credit cards from buyers of other countries. These companies provide Internet merchant account also so that the merchant can accept credit card online. There are several companies that offer credit card processing services anywhere in the world. [http://www.i-CreditCardProcessing.com]Credit Card Processing provides detailed information on Credit Card Processing, Online Credit Card Processing, Credit Card Processing Software, Wireless Credit Card Processing and more. Credit Card Processing is affiliated with [http://www.e-CreditCardTerminals.com]Wireless Credit Card Terminals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Morva http://EzineArticles.com/?International-Credit-Card-Processing&id=353156
Friday, July 13, 2007
Wireless Credit Card Terminals
The Meaning Of Credit Card Numbers
By Ron King
If you take a close look at your credit cards, you'll probably
wonder what all those numbers stand for. Every digit actually
stands for something specific. Let's have a look at each of
those numbers in sequence.
The First Digit
Gasoline cards, department store cards and phone cards have
their own programs.
The major credit card companies operate on a standardized
system for assigning credit card numbers. The first digit in
the series will always be a 3, 4, 5 or 6. This number
designates the type of card you have. For instance, a 3 means
it's a travel and entertainment card, such as American Express
or Diners Club. A 4 is Visa and Visa-branded debit cards, cash
cards; a 5 is MasterCard and MasterCard-branded debit cards,
cash cards; and 6 is Discover.
The Other Numbers
American Express and Diners Club use the second digit to
identify the company. That means that Diners Club cards will
start with either 36 or 38, and American Express cards will
lead off with 34 or 37.
The remaining numbers in the series are used for other
purposes, depending upon the card type and issuer. Generally,
the numbers grouped after the opening series is the routing
number of the bank and the next group is the user's account
number. The final digit is special -- a check digit. This is a
number calculated by applying a specific formula, and it is
used as a fraud check.
Look At Your Card
American Express uses digits 3 and 4 for business or personal
card type and the currency of the cardholder's country of
origin. Digits 5 through 11 are the account number. Digits 12
through 14 show the card number attached to that account. The
last digit is, of course, the check digit.
Visa uses digits 2 through 6 for the bank number. Beginning
with digit 7 and running through 12 or 15, they're the account
number, and the last number is the check digit. The number of
digits in a group may vary because Visa cards don't all have
the same number of digits.
With MasterCard, the second digit through digit 3 (to as high
as 6) is the bank number. All remaining digits, except the end
check digit, identifies the cardholder's account.
And that's it. A slightly complex system necessary to track
billions of credit cards across the globe.
About the Author: Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer,
and web developer. Visit http://www.new-credit-card-now.com to
learn more about this fascinating subject. Copyright 2005 Ron
King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left
intact.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
By Ron King
If you take a close look at your credit cards, you'll probably
wonder what all those numbers stand for. Every digit actually
stands for something specific. Let's have a look at each of
those numbers in sequence.
The First Digit
Gasoline cards, department store cards and phone cards have
their own programs.
The major credit card companies operate on a standardized
system for assigning credit card numbers. The first digit in
the series will always be a 3, 4, 5 or 6. This number
designates the type of card you have. For instance, a 3 means
it's a travel and entertainment card, such as American Express
or Diners Club. A 4 is Visa and Visa-branded debit cards, cash
cards; a 5 is MasterCard and MasterCard-branded debit cards,
cash cards; and 6 is Discover.
The Other Numbers
American Express and Diners Club use the second digit to
identify the company. That means that Diners Club cards will
start with either 36 or 38, and American Express cards will
lead off with 34 or 37.
The remaining numbers in the series are used for other
purposes, depending upon the card type and issuer. Generally,
the numbers grouped after the opening series is the routing
number of the bank and the next group is the user's account
number. The final digit is special -- a check digit. This is a
number calculated by applying a specific formula, and it is
used as a fraud check.
Look At Your Card
American Express uses digits 3 and 4 for business or personal
card type and the currency of the cardholder's country of
origin. Digits 5 through 11 are the account number. Digits 12
through 14 show the card number attached to that account. The
last digit is, of course, the check digit.
Visa uses digits 2 through 6 for the bank number. Beginning
with digit 7 and running through 12 or 15, they're the account
number, and the last number is the check digit. The number of
digits in a group may vary because Visa cards don't all have
the same number of digits.
With MasterCard, the second digit through digit 3 (to as high
as 6) is the bank number. All remaining digits, except the end
check digit, identifies the cardholder's account.
And that's it. A slightly complex system necessary to track
billions of credit cards across the globe.
About the Author: Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer,
and web developer. Visit http://www.new-credit-card-now.com to
learn more about this fascinating subject. Copyright 2005 Ron
King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left
intact.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
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