Depending on your credit score and the number of bad marks on the report, it is possible to secure credit cards for bad credit ratings. While some of the larger credit card companies shy away from customers with less than perfect credit histories, there are many willing to give that segment of society a chance. It is not cheap to score credit cards for bad credit and many of the cards come complete with a hefty balance already attached to them when they arrive in the mail.
While most financial advisers point out all that is wrong with an industry offering credit cards for bad credit borrowers, there is a niche customer base of persons who have had setbacks in their life that see a definite advantage, despite the extra costs of credit. As most people realize it is difficult to conduct business online without a credit card and the majority of companies require the use of a credit card to rent a car, secure a motel room and provide identification for self-check-in at most airports.
People who have lost their credit rating often view the needs for a credit card as discriminatory, but realizing they have little choice will apply for credit cards for bad credit risks, viewing the additional charges and higher interest rate as the price they have to pay for re-establishing their financial life. They know they will be looking at such things as:
* Interest Rates between 18% and 30%
* Late fees between $29 and $39
* Cash Advance Interest Rates up to 24%
* Processing fees up to $150
* Annual Fees up to $100
* Initial Credit limits ranging from $100 to $10,000
Despite the extra expense, those who really want to rebuild their credit will spend up to two years using credit cards for bad credit users before being able to convince another credit card issuer that they deserve a chance at having a card at traditionally lower costs.
Depending on the companies that issue credit cards for bad credit subscribers, they can also charge a fee of up to $20 for a replacement card if one becomes lost or stolen, and to pay the bill by phone can ring up another $5 to $15. Some companies even charge for using their online credit card payment service.
Although some consider using their branded debit card, which is tied to their bank's checking account as a convenience for shopping in stores as well as online, many car rental companies and travel agents will not accept them when making reservations. They will accept debit cards for full payment, but a credit card is required for making the reservation.
Despite all the additional charges, it is still cheaper than struggling with all cash purchases and other costs associated with attempting to clear legally a credit report.
About the Author:
Morgan Hamilton is an experienced Financial Adviser who has written a number of informative articles on the topic of Credit Cards for Bad Credit Visit BestCreditQuote.com to learn more about Bad Credit Credit Cards
Finding Credit Cards For Bad Credit - Reserve Yours Now
Wednesday, October 31, 2007 10:13 PM
Filed Under: Credits |0 commentsIntroduction to Consumer Credit
Thursday, October 18, 2007 7:44 AM
Filed Under: Credits |0 commentsConsumer credit refers to credit in some form given to the consumers. It is a way of financing a client on condition of a deferred payment, at a later date or within a particular period of time.
The businesses that provide consumer credit facilities need to comply with some regulations as lay down by the laws of the state. It is equally applicable to specialist credit businesses like credit card providers and money lenders to mail-order businesses or shops that permit the customers to buy on credit or lease out or hires goods. That is, the enterprises that give consumer credit facilities have to have a valid consumer credit license from the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). It is a mark of assurance to the customer that the business firm certified by OFT is fit for serve the customers.
Let us see which all businesses require a consumer credit license as a mandatory requirement by the law. The businesses that sells on credit, leases out or hires goods for over a period of 3 months, lends dollars, involved in credit card selling, arranges credit for others, provides hire/purchase commodities, collects debts, and give advise on others credit standing come under the purview of a consumer credit license.
But those lends amounts or hire goods for a cost more than a fixed amount, those deal only with limited companies and those allow the clients to pay back the amount in four or lesser installments are exempted from the consumer credit license.
Ideally one should check the guidelines from the OFT website to find out clearly which all businesses need a consumer credit license. Remember, to trade without a consumer credit license when you are required to earn one is a crime that invites fine or prison term or both.
Consumer credit license is valid for a fixed time period (5 years or so) and is required by the business to renew it after its expiry. However, the OFT can revoke, suspend or change the license at any point of time. The decision to do so is at the exclusive discretion of the authority. All the consumer credit license holders will be listed in the Consumer Credit Register, which is given free of cost for the public.
If the business consists of many companies, each trading in any of the categories, then each of the firms requires a separate license. Also, the OFT has laid down rules regarding advertising credit and credit agreements. All these details are furnished in the OFT website.
The government and the regulatory body assume that it is the duty of the business to keep themselves informed about the rules and regulations that govern their enterprises. Any breach of conduct can result in hefty fines and prison terms. It is all about being law-obedient and straight.
Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.cashbazar.com. Visit his website for the latest on personal finance, debt elimination, budgeting, credit cards and real estate.