Providian Raised My APR to 29.99%
by Scott Bilker
I was shocked to learn my Providian credit card raised my APR from 23.99 to 29.99. I've never missed a payment or been late. I called to find out why and the rep told me they mailed out a notice of change in terms. I said I never received the notice. I calmly explained the situation, reminding them I've never missed a payment or been late, not even once. They said there was nothing they could do...
10 Reasons to Love Your Credit Card Bank
by Scott Bilker
Boy, the banks are going to love me for this; too bad they won't be sending me a check! Love 'em, hate 'em, it's the same old story. Credit cards themselves are not bad. There are advantages and disadvantages so this time I want to take a look at some of those advantages...
Survey Results: "Love" the Banks
by Scott Bilker
Boy, the banks are going to love me for this; too bad they won't be sending me a check! Love 'em, hate 'em, it's the same old story.
Survey Results: "Hate" the Banks
by Scott Bilker
When you are forced into debt, the credit card banks are right there to take advantage of us! I've had enough! I'm sure you have too, so please tell me your story in the survey.
Household Math™: Average Daily Balance
by Scott Bilker
On day 1 in the month your balance is $5,000. On day 15 your payment of $2,000 is credited to your balance. The number of days in the month is 31. What is your average daily balance?
10 Reasons to Hate Your Credit Card Bank
by Scott Bilker
Buying a house forces you into debt, buying a car forces you into debt, if you don't have a credit card then you don't exist because you don't have a credit history. We just can't win. And when you finally get some debt, the credit card banks are right there to take advantage of us! I've had enough! I'm sure you have too...
Card Registration Services
by Rebecca Lindsey
Credit card registration services (sometimes called card protection services) are an additional option that you should know about. Card registration services come in handy if your credit or debit cards are ever lost or stolen--for a monthly or yearly fee. Although the fee is usually small, it is up to you to figure out if the services offered are worth it.
Consumer Action's 2002 Credit Card Survey
by Consumer Action
San Francisco, Friday, March 22, 2002 - The new National Credit Card Survey by Consumer Action (CA), released today, takes a close look at 126 credit cards issued by 42 companies. Since the mid-1980s, the non-profit education and advocacy organization has conducted an annual review of credit card rates and terms in order to gauge industry trends and provide consumers with a comparison tool.
Survey Results: Chase Bank Tries to Pull a Fast One
by Scott Bilker
Last email newsletter I recounted my experience of handling Chase Bank when they attempted to deceive me. Many DebtSmart readers voiced their opinion about the article and the Chase letter. You'll certainly want to hear from those who agree and disagree, plus add your comments to my article or comment about other people's responses!
Chase Bank Tries to Pull a Fast One (Conversation 2)
by Scott Bilker
Part 2: Supervisor argues about the fee. Rep: "Mr. Bilker thank you for holding the account supervisor Ms. Lett is on the line. You may go ahead." Scott: "Thank you Ms. Beers."
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