Article Keyword Videos to Watch
Finance
Click on the image to start the video.
|
Related Topics
Images - Links - Articles
Houston
Related Images
|
New Developments In Credit Card Monthly Minimum Payments
Although a convenience for many people, credit cards offer the allure of free money and perks with no strings attached. In many cases, credit card companies promote “teaser interest rates” or other benefits such as “free airline points” to attract new customers. As you may be aware, teaser interest rates usually adjust after a brief period of time. Many credit seekers have found themselves unprepared as their interest rates have adjusted from the low single digits to double digit rates over night!
Likewise, credit card companies often choose to increase a card holder’s interest rate following a delinquent or reduced monthly payment. Interestingly enough, regulators from the Comptroller of the Currency have recently increased the mandatory monthly payment amount that credit card companies must assess from card holders. In the long run, this will likely benefit consumers as they will be forced to increase their payments which should help them reduce outstanding debt. However, the short term consequences could prove difficult to overcome for those who are swimming in debt. The new rules will hit consumers hard especially on top of higher energy prices, rising interest rates, and record levels of overall household debt.
Homeowners that have outstanding credit cards or other unsecured debt should consider the benefits of a debt consolidation loan. Unsecured debt is a loan that is NOT secured by a home or property. In general, loans that are secured by property have more attractive interest rates. Likewise, the interest that is paid back is tax deductible in many cases. Consolidating credit card debt into a single loan or line of credit secured by your home's equity can often reduce your monthly payments. Likewise, it can simplify your life by offering one monthly payment.
If you are struggling with credit card debt, it is important for you to speak with a mortgage specialist regarding your options. Before speaking with a mortgage specialist, consider how long you wish to remain in your home and other factors regarding your personal financial situation. In the majority of situations, a mortgage specialist would be happy to offer a good faith mortgage analysis free of charge. Therefore, you have nothing to loose by a consultation
About the Author: For further information regarding
|