► Debt Consolidation - Mortgages

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Tips for Card Carriers

If you are a credit card carrier these simple tips can help keep you out of debt and in good standing with credit card companies.

� Make sure you read and understand the terms and fine print of your credit card.

� Don�t leave your receipts on the restaurant table or throw them in an open trash bin. Hold onto them in case there�s a thief around who�s into fraud or there�s something on your statement you don�t recall.

� Pay your bills when you get them to avoid late fees.

� Keep a file (in a safe place) of all account numbers, expiration dates, and phone numbers so you can call the credit card issuer the minute you lose your card.

� Be vigilant. Check your statement each month to make sure the purchases are all yours. Make certain there�s nothing on it that belongs to another card holder.

� Don�t give your account number over the phone to callers you�re not familiar with. On the Internet, make sure the site uses a secure server.

� Look into student credit cards. It�s actually a very good idea for students to have their own credit cards in their own names. Student cards tend to have lower credit lines, which helps young people learn to use cards in a more controlled setting and, at the same time, start building their own credit histories.

� Above all, if you do charge too much and get in over your head, don�t go into denial. Call the people you owe money and tell them you�re in a bind. Most will be glad (or at least willing) to work out an arrangement. Then, stop charging stuff, consolidate your debt (one tidy number is better than a bunch of little ones), and consider debt counseling to learn to control your debt in the future.