You may have gotten a credit card to cover financial emergencies, stretch your money between paychecks or earn rewards points. But what starts as a useful financial tool can contribute to an out-of-control spending pattern. People sometimes use the phr…
Category: Credit Card Debt
Unsecured debt is money you owe that is not backed by collateral. Collateral is an asset, like a house or car, that you pledge to a lender as security for a loan. With unsecured debt, there’s no specific property tied to the balance. The lender a…
A variable APR is an annual percentage rate that can change over time based on a benchmark interest rate. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a variable-rate APR changes with the index interest rate, while a fixed APR does not fluctu…
Most people who search this question have one of two things on their mind. Either they just got hit with an interest charge they didn’t expect, or they’re trying to make sure that doesn’t happen. So when does a credit card charge interest, exactl…
Many people rely on credit cards for everyday expenses, from groceries to gas to utility bills. But can you pay a car loan with a credit card, too? In some cases, yes, but many lenders don’t accept credit cards directly, and the extra fees involved can…
A credit card is a tool. In the right hands, it can make life easier and even pay you back a little. Used without a plan, though, it can turn into expensive debt. The difference often comes down to habits. The habits that matter most are simple: pay on…
Getting a credit card usually doesn’t cost anything upfront. In fact, most credit cards don’t charge an application or account-opening fee. The real costs come from how you use the card. If you pay your statement balance in full each month,…
Yes, you can get cash with a credit card, but it’s usually a cash advance, not a regular purchase. That distinction matters. Cash advances often include added fees, a separate (and lower) limit, and interest that may start building right away.…
Paying off credit card debt is easier when you have a clear plan. Start by listing each card and its important details, such as the: From there, choose a payoff method, look for ways to reduce interest and decide whether seeking expert help might make …
Visa gift cards are one of the most popular types of gift cards today. They’re flexible, easy to use, and accepted almost everywhere that takes Visa. But can you pay a credit card bill with a Visa gift card like you would with a regular debit card?…