Credit / Account Management

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• Expert Q&A: "The Follow-Through Factor" to success -- Author Gene Hayden explains how anyone can push past the most daunting demands, including learning to use credit cards properly or manage debt effectively ... (more)
• How to rescue your credit card rewards -- Is there any way to profit from reward points that would otherwise expire? We reviewed one specialty website that lets members track and trade points ... (more)
• 5 'deadly' dangers of credit card arbitrage -- Credit card arbitrage is not for the faint of heart. It’s a high-stakes game that can land you in a heap of debt if you don’t play the game by the rules. ... (more)
• Spring clean your credit card clutter -- The painful cost of credit card clutter can result in lost bills, late payment fees and nasty hits to your credit score. Don't ignore the problem--organize! ... (more)
• 5 fun online games that teach valuable money lessons -- Video games improve creativity, decision-making and perception. These five action-based game teach players of all ages to wisely manage money. ... (more)
• Consumer alert: Identity theft scams to watch out for -- Even though identity theft is soaring in Canada, you can secure your personal and financial information by avoiding these popular identity theft crimes ... (more)
• Expert Q&A: An online matchmaker for financial planning? -- Want to find a financial planner who's a good match for you? Consider narrowing down the candidates with the Financial Planning Standards Council's search tool ... (more)
• Author Q&A: What to do about “Crushing Debt” -- Chartered accountant and author David Trahair had his own financial crisis 10 years ago. His latest book can help Canadians avoid similar meltdowns ... (more)
• 6 myths about smart credit card use -- There's a lot of information out there about credit cards and how to use them. Yet some well-intentioned advice can actually lead you in the wrong direction ... (more)
• Herbal remedies for 6 credit card blunders -- Are credit card slip-ups making you feel unwell? These herbal therapies just might help you resolve your financial challenges with a clearer head ... (more)
• New online game puts your money smarts to the test -- So, you aspire to be a know-it-all on credit card debt, investments and money scams? See how well you score on this fun financial challenge ... (more)
• Author Q&A: Is 60 the new 20 for credit card spending? -- Author Margie Taylor shares how baby boomers can either enter the golden years kicking, screaming and clinging to credit cards, or age with grace and dignity ... (more)
• Editor's choice: Canada's best secured credit cards -- Collateral-based credit cards can help consumers establish or rebuild their credit. Here are some with no annual fees, the lowest APRs and special perks ... (more)
• Credit cards can help you make smart RRSP choices -- Smart RRSP decisions can benefit from the creative use of credit cards. Here's how to overcome the challenges Canadians face during RRSP season ... (more)
• How to take charge of your credit cards -- When it comes to credit cards, consumers are often paralyzed by the choices they have. Author Alison Griffiths provides tips about taking control ... (more)
• Expert Q&A: Can humour ease your credit card woes? -- While laughing won’t solve all your money problems, psychotherapist and cartoonist Allan Hirsh explains how humour can help you manage financial stress ... (more)
• Your credit card spending horoscope for 2012 -- What's in the cards for your financial destiny? The answer could be in the stars. Here are some of the best and worst credit card-related horoscopes for the New Year ... (more)
• Negative option billing: Little tricks cause big losses -- Pssst! Want to avoid rogue transactions on your credit card statements? CreditCards.ca uses a recent University of Alberta study to explain how to overcome negative option billing tricks and traps ... (more)
• Alison Griffiths' 5 money resolutions for 2012 -- Bestselling writer and TV host Alison Griffiths serves up a menu of financial resolutions and explains how you, too, can take control of your finances throughout the upcoming year ... (more)
• 7 reasons why many Canadians oppose card surcharges -- According to a recent survey, a whopping 84 per cent of Canadians said they oppose merchant-imposed surcharge fees on credit cards. But what's behind shoppers' resistance? CreditCards.ca investigates ... (more)
• Expert Q&A: Smart money tips for 2012 -- Acknowledging that there are challenges on the horizon, one of Canada's top financial planners gives valuable advice on how to make the right money-related decisions in 2012 ... (more)
• Are credit cards that offer free trip cancellation worth it? -- Credit cards that offer free trip cancellation protection are popular among frequent travellers, especially in snowstorm-prone Canada. But are they worth the extra fees that come with them? ... (more)
• Can a higher credit score lower your insurance costs? -- A fierce debate is raging in Canada about whether auto and property insurers should be allowed to use credit scores to rate applicants. However, proponents argue most Canadians would benefit from credit-based insurance ratings ... (more)
• Credit card cliches: They're a dime a dozen -- These expressions may be trite, but some well-worn snippets contain lucrative lessons for consumers who want to squeeze the most value from their credit cards ... (more)
• PayPal's Send Money App: A better way to transfer funds? -- Sending money to friends and family living in another country just got faster and less expensive, thanks to PayPal's new Facebook payment app. And, yes, the just-released app accepts credit cards ... (more)
• 10 smart strategies for holiday spending -- Keep your spirits bright this holiday season and say no to overspending. Here are ten essential tips for maximizing your holiday savings, cutting down on shopping stress and avoiding post-holiday debt regret ... (more)
• Expert Q&A: Are reverse mortgages loans of last resort? -- CreditCards.ca talks to financial expert Susan Eng about reverse mortgages and asks her for best advice on how consumers should approach this complex and potentially risky financial product ... (more)
• 7 myths about joint credit cards -- Just as relationships can be tricky, so can the proper use of joint credit cards. Here are seven common misunderstandings about joint credit cards, with tips on how to prevent individual financial pain ... (more)
• 10 fun Canadian tax facts and tips -- Who says that income tax rules are always dry and boring? Here are some quirky deductions and savings to make you smile while filling out your next tax return ... (more)
• How to find the best savings accounts in 4 easy steps -- It's a bird! It's a plane! No, it's a powerful but free search engine that helps you find the highest earning deposit accounts faster than a speeding bullet. Here's how to profit from this easy-to-use tool ... (more)
• 6 scary credit card mistakes that can haunt your finances -- Make a slip -- such as a missed payment -- and your credit card debt can shoot up to nightmare heights. Here are six common mistakes that result in fright nights for cardholders who don't manage their credit cards wisely ... (more)
• Editor's Choice: The best balance transfer cards 2011 -- Using balance transfer credit cards wisely can eliminate years of high-interest debt repayment. If you're currently looking for a new card, here are our picks for the best balance transfer cards on the market ... (more)
• 6 tips for a successful balance transfer -- Balance transfer deals can be a valuable cost-saving tool for managing high-interest debt -- if you do them right. Here are six essential tips to ensure a positive balance transfer experience ... (more)
• Expert Q&A: How to spot a bad financial planner -- Finding a trustworthy financial planner can be a challenge. Tamara Smith from the Financial Planning Standards Council explains how to identify planners who do not have your best interests in mind ... (more)
• 6 common credit score mistakes -- Half-truths and misconceptions make finding reliable information on credit scores tricky. CreditCards.ca separates fact from fiction and highlights six common errors that can damage your credit rating ... (more)
• Expert Q&A: How to get debt under control -- How can Canadians take control of their finances when governments around the world can't seem to get it right? A certified financial planner shares invaluable advice on how to tackle out-of-control "bad debt." ... (more)
• How to win a dispute with your bank in 5 easy steps -- You can negotiate a complaint settlement even after the most stubborn banker stonewalls your requests for compensation. Here are five action items, tips and tools to ensure your success ... (more)
• How to overcome the payday blues -- Despite receiving a regular paycheque, many of Canada's 14.6 million employees are worried about their financial future. Here's how to overcome those blues and conquer your job-related financial challenges ... (more)
• 7 money lessons from "The Wealthy Barber Returns" -- Twenty-two years after "The Wealthy Barber" sold over 2 million copies, its amiable author is back with a sequel. Here are Dave Chilton's latest tips for keeping financially fit and resolving your most stressful money challenges ... (more)
• 8 risky credit card scenarios you should avoid -- It can be tempting to rely on plastic to get you out of a cash shortage or to fund an investment. However, it can also give you a painful financial headache. Here are 8 situations in which you should avoid using plastic ... (more)
• Editor's Choice: 7 free online budgeting tools -- Many consumers are struggling to balance their expenses with limited income. CreditCards.ca reviews seven free tools that help you achieve your budgeting goals more easily ... (more)
• 8 stress-busting tips for managing student debt -- The average $80,000 that a four-year university degree costs is weighing heavily on many students' minds these days. Here are some practical tips to help lessen the financial stress ... (more)
• Author Q&A: Debt and "The Happiness Equation" -- What makes Canadians happy? John Hallward, author of "The Happiness Equation," shares his research on happiness and explains how debt contributes to consumers' unhappiness ... (more)
• Cash refunds from credit card price protection -- We've all been there. Excited about buying a new bicycle for $700, your happiness turns into bitter disappointment when that same bike goes on sale for $300 the very next week. But there's a credit card perk that can help ... (more)
• How much retirement income do Canadians really need? -- CreditCards.ca crunches the numbers to calculate a senior couple's bare-bones survival retirement in Canada's largest city. Surprisingly, we found that even poverty-level retirees can thrive ... (more)
• New: Facebook credit card deals without coupons -- American Express recently introduced a social media app that presents cardholders with relevant offers based on their Facebook likes, interests and profile information. But will the coupon-less "killer app" catch on in Canada? ... (more)
• Is mobile banking on the bleeding edge? -- Smartphone technology enables Canadians to quickly do their banking wherever they are. However, when problems arise, outdated consumer protection laws cast the spotlight of responsibility directly on mobile banking users ... (more)
• Tax-Free Savings Accounts: 7 smart strategies -- Many Canadians are unaware of the significant wealth-building opportunities that Tax-Free Savings Accounts present. Here are seven savvy ways to make your TFSA money work harder and smarter ... (more)
• 6 debt spiral traps that threaten Canadian households -- Many Canadian families unknowingly face debt spirals that accelerate with time. Here are the six root causes driving these devastating debt spirals -- plus practical tips on how to avoid being blindsided by them ... (more)
• How to find government-secured estate cash online -- It's easy to apply for estate cash posted on the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy's website. Here, step-by-step, is what you need to do to claim additional money from an inheritance ... (more)
• Travel credit cards with free health insurance: A review -- Tired of paying health insurance premiums every time you go on a trip outside the Great White North? CreditCards.ca reviews four credit cards that come with free out-of-province emergency coverage ... (more)
• 4 true tales of Great White North loan sharks -- In Canada, loan sharks have engaged in scary and sometimes amusing real-life plots involving credit cards. Here are four true tales from across the country -- as well as four key credit lessons learned ... (more)
• Equifax Canada redesigns business credit scoring system -- Equifax Canada recently unveiled a new business credit report that uses a different system to grade businesses. Here's what you need to know about the new report -- whether you're a lender or a small business owner ... (more)
• Maximum gas savings start with the right credit card -- Planning a summer road trip? It's time to start thinking about how you're going to pay for that gas. CreditCards.ca looks at which credit cards offer the greatest gas rewards and presents practical tips on how to cope with inflated prices ... (more)
• Simple strategies for preventing senior bankruptcies -- The profile of the average bankrupt Canadian age 55 or older may surprise you. In fact, he or she may look just like your neighbor, your parent or you. Here's what you need to know to avoid the same fate ... (more)
• Big cash savings from little-known credit card freebies -- Free coverage under your credit card's extended warranty protection and purchase security plans can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. CreditCards.ca shows you how ... (more)
• Report card on Canadian alumni credit cards -- It can be fun to advertise your alma mater on your credit card; but are these cards worth the higher APR? CreditCards.ca compares the most compelling benefits of Canadian alumni credit cards against standard card features ... (more)
• How to find a qualified financial planner -- Too many Canadians entrust their money to individuals who misrepresent themselves as qualified financial planners. CreditCards.ca reveals the right questions to ask when searching for a trustworthy adviser ... (more)
• Q&A: How to thrive after a financial crisis -- Patricia White shares her credit counselling expertise with CreditCards.ca and provides a 10-step roadmap for Canadians who want to rebuild their credit ratings and strengthen their debt management skills ... (more)
• How to cancel credit cards after a loved one passes away -- Deactivating and cancelling the credit cards of a deceased loved one prevents post-mortem identity theft and stops annual account fees. Here, step by step, is what you need to do ... (more)
• Q&A: Credit card tips from author Jonathan Chevreau -- CreditCards.ca talks to one of Canada's most popular personal finance writers, Jonathan Chevreau, author of "Findependence Day," and asks him for the best lessons he's learned about wise credit card use ... (more)
• 3 scary 'bad credit' options you should avoid -- It's tough out there for consumers with bad credit. But there's hope -- as long as you know how to avoid the traps. CreditCards.ca investigates three of the most frightening financing offers that often trap consumers ... (more)
• Are you engaging in wishful thinking about debt? -- If so, you're not alone. Most Canadians say that eliminating debt is a top priority. But talk is cheap -- and many younger Canadians are finding that they're far too optimistic about their ability to pay back money borrowed ... (more)
• How to shop for the lowest credit card fees -- Before deciding on the card that's right for you, one of the most profitable investments of your time is to carefully compare different credit card fees. Here are 9 fees that you should watch for when shopping around ... (more)
• 7 credit score ringtone songs for your mobile phone -- Looking for a new ringtone? Depending on your credit score, one of these songs may be perfect for you. CreditCards.ca takes a look at Canadian credit score ratings and presents a ring tone song idea for each credit score category ... (more)
• How to avoid costly online auction traps -- Online auction sites, such as eBay, are exploding in popularity across the web; but using them comes with significant risks. CreditCards.ca reveals 5 dangerous frauds that can cause steep losses on these sites ... (more)
• How to claim old bank account money -- Did you know that the Bank of Canada hosts a free online search engine for unclaimed bank account balances? It's true. CreditCards.ca shows you how to quickly search online for forgotten money ... (more)
• 5 tricks fake loan companies use to steal money -- If you're considering a "no credit check" loan, here's a wake-up call for you: Don't do it. CreditCards.ca takes a look at five warning signals for fraudulent loans -- plus a safer option for financially stressed consumers ... (more)
• The top 5 complaints against credit card balance insurance -- Armed with the latest watchdog statistics, CreditCards.ca has the scoop on the credit card insurance hassles that irk Canadians the most -- and how you can fight back ... (more)
• How to search online for unclaimed money -- Millions of dollars in bankruptcy cash are waiting to be recovered on Canada's special government website for unclaimed funds. CreditCards.ca shows you how to search the database and make an eligible claim ... (more)
• How hackers steal your credit card information -- According to one security expert, highly-skilled computer hackers are becoming so crafty that they might as well be sitting at your computer with your passwords. Here are 5 of the most dangerous hacker tricks to watch out for ... (more)
• 5 ways to turn your credit card into a savings card -- It's time to change your attitude from "Spend now, Pay later" to "Pay now, Save later," say experts. Here are five practical ways to maximize savings with your credit card ... (more)
• How to obtain, correct and monitor your free credit reports -- Want to know your credit score, but don't know where to start? CreditCards.ca has the answer, along with key tips on how to protect your credit bureau ratings with free credit reports, update requests and fraud alerts ... (more)
• Is credit card balance insurance a smart buy? -- Proponents of credit card balance insurance say it's an important tool to protect you from unforeseen events; but critics say it's a waste of money. CreditCards.ca investigates whether the monthly premiums charged to your account are worth it ... (more)
• Top 10 most amazing credit card videos on YouTube -- From money magic to the worst credit card offer ever, these amazing videos tell some intriguing financial stories -- and highlight the risks and benefits of owning a credit card ... (more)
• Beware of Canadian bank-issued gift card fees -- Watch out: Bank-issued gift cards can come loaded with an astonishing number of fees. CreditCards.ca helps you do the math, sort through the fees and avoid unnecessary charges ... (more)
• Can Canada Credit Fix repair your credit score? -- They bill themselves as the nation's number one credit repair agency -- and they flood the Web with viral videos and social media campaigns. But do their services hold up to the hype? CreditCards.ca helps you distinguish the facts from the sales pitches ... (more)
• How to stand up to collection agency bullies -- Missed bill payments are on the rise across Canada and so are complaints against abusive debt collectors. Paid on commission, bill collectors have the right to be persistent. But some can cross the line -- using illegal scare tactics to drum up payments. ... (more)
• 5 things consumers need to know about the battle over credit card transaction fees -- If the Competition Tribunal strikes down the federal no-surcharge rule, consumers could see retail costs plummet -- or they could see their premium credit cards get declined -- say analysts ... (more)
• Top 10 most outrageous credit card song lyrics -- Here are 10 classic songs that use credit card lyrics to get across some outrageous storylines, messages and emotions ... (more)
• Your credit card "money rights" in plain language -- A fresh set of regulations on credit card issuers took effect last fall. But not all consumers are aware that these powerful new rules could help them save money ... (more)
• Protect yourself from these 5 common credit card scams -- Fighting credit card crime starts with a clear understanding of the different types of charge-card fraud. Protect yourself by learning how you can be scammed -- and how you can prevent it. ... (more)