A credit card is a great financial tool. It can be more convenient to use and carry than cash and it offers valuable consumer protections under federal law.
At the same time, it's a big responsibility. If you don't use it carefully, you may owe more than you can repay, damage your credit rating and create credit problems for yourself that can be difficult to fix.
Chances are your mail is full of offers from credit card issuers. How do you know if the time is right for a credit card? Here is some important information that may help you determine whether you're ready for plastic, what to look for when you select a company to do business with and how to use your credit card responsibly.
Article Contents:
QUALIFYING FOR A CREDIT CARD
ESTABLISHING A CREDIT HISTORY
IF YOUR APPLICATION IS DENIED
GETTING THE BEST DEAL
RESPONSIBILITIES
FEDERAL PROTECTIONS
KINDS OF CREDIT ACCOUNTS