Credit Card Fundamentals

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• What is it "good debt?" -- There is such a thing as good debt. It will either grow in value or offer a way to make income in the future. But be sure you know the difference between good debt and bad debt before you dive in ... (See Good debt)
• 5 credit tips for new graduates -- There are many advantages of having available credit as a student and new grad -- it can tide you over during a financial crunch, and it's an easy way to build a credit history quickly. But used unwisely, it can lead to financial trouble too ... (See Credit lessons)
• What happens to credit card debt after somebody dies? -- If someone close to you dies, you are only liable for their debt if you signed the card application. Either way, there are certain issues you should be aware of ... (See Who pays?)
• How to spend less on Fluffy and Fido -- Credit card spending on pets is rising but there are ways to reduce your expenses now and well into your pet's golden years ... (See Spot savings)
• Young Canadians overshare their credit card info -- A survey found that 45 per cent of 18- to 34-year-olds reported taking risks by loaning their cards to friends, or sharing personal account numbers through electronic communications. You can protect your plastic with a few simple tips ... (See TMI)
• Signing up for a new credit card? Read the fine print first. -- Although many credit card offers look enticing, it's important to read the contract to know what you're getting into. The fine print includes many important details ... (See Fine print)
• Chat room: Author and blogger Jim Yih talks credit cards -- The author, adviser and Retire Happy blogger talks about Air Miles, Dairy Queen and the benefits of monogamy ... (See Jim Yih)
• 5 ways to avoid debt -- The best ways to cut stress and become financially solvent long-term is to keep your debt down to a level you can manage. Here are a few ways to make that goal a reality ... (See Avoid debt)
• How to avoid gifting worthless plastic -- With gift card scams circulating and fraudsters on the prowl, some consumers may fall into the trap of buying and gifting little more than a worthless piece of plastic. ... (See Gift card)
• Why your cardholder agreement is so hard to read -- If credit card documents make you throw up your hands in frustration, you’re not alone. We score 5 sample agreements for readability and investigate reasons for all that confusion. ... (See Readability)
• Canadian consumer debt jumps, card debt idles -- The amount of debt an average Canadian carries increased at its fastest rate in nearly two years, according to a new TransUnion report. ... (See Consumer debt)
• Costly myths about financial planning -- Financial planning expert Tina Tehranchian reveals seven common fallacies that often keep Canadians from mastering their own finances. ... (See Follow through)
• Teachable moments for future credit card users -- Too much debt is threatening the emotional health of Canada's young adults. Here are 6 lessons to help mentor your children on the proper use of credit cards. ... (See Hidden debt)
• 8 ways to pay off your card balances faster -- If you’re apprehensive about some upcoming credit card bills, you’re not alone. Two credit experts reveal their top tips for whittling down balances to more manageable levels. ... (See Cut debt)
• Top credit cards with free identity theft protection -- Identity theft is a fast-growing crime in Canada, often caused by stolen credit card information. Fortunately, some cards have benefits to help mitigate the potential pain. ... (See Protect identity)
• 10 secrets about credit card travel accident insurance -- Few people enjoy thinking about insurance, so we've done the work for you: We vetted 25 credit cards with free travel accident coverage. ... (See Accident insurance)
• 7 ways to clear credit card debt before retirement -- Unpaid credit card bills can sabotage even the most meticulous plans. Here are seven practical strategies that help prevent debt from ruining your senior years. ... (See Retirement)
• Crooks want your card details, not your card -- Technology has made credit cards safer, but Canadians still need to be as diligent with their card information as they are with cash in their wallets. ... (See Online safety)
• Expert Q&A: How to spot a bad credit counsellor -- Credit counsellors provide guidance on paying off debt and managing the intimacies of your finances. But how do you know which credit coaches to trust? ... (See Credit help)
• 8 painful mistakes that multiply credit card costs -- Mismanaging your credit card can lead to dramatically overpaying for the privilege of paying with plastic. Here's how to avoid costly blunders. ... (See Credit mistakes)
• Expert Q&A: Money reality checks for women -- Personal finance expert, author and TV personality Kelley Keehn explains the specific challenges women face when dealing with money, relationships and men. ... (See Reality check)
• Editor's Choice: Top college student credit cards -- Before your student starts hitting the books, carefully research credit cards that can help cut costs on school supplies, books, and living expenses. ... (See Student cards)
• Are premium credit cards worth the cost? -- CreditCards.ca has the scoop on whether or not you’re carrying premium plastic in your wallet, and presents the pros and cons of premium credit cards. ... (See Premium cards)
• How to save on foreign exchange fees -- Can't stand foreign exchange fees on credit card purchases? Here are some options that enable you to avoid those pesky currency conversion charges. ... (See Currency fees)
• Expert Q&A: How to interpret financial warning signs -- Some Canadians expect their finances to magically manage itself. But there are some money-related warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. ... (See Warning signs)
• Happy staycations on your credit card -- A stay-at-home vacation can be super-relaxing, provide heart-warming memories and save a lot of money -- especially if you use your credit card. ... (See Save at home)
• Winning at 5 types of credit card complaints -- Spending hours on the phone to resolve an issue with your credit card is a hassle. Make sure you’re talking to the right people to resolve your problem. ... (See Complaints)
• Top credit cards for Canadian newcomers -- Some credit card issuers offer introductory packages specifically designed for new immigrants, but be prepared for a confusing range of choices. ... (See Newcomers)
• Credit card comedy acts on YouTube -- From slapstick customer service to turning the tables on debt collectors, these video sketches use fast-paced comedy to get across some helpful financial messages ... (See Credit comedy)
• Editor's Choice: Best credit cards for groceries -- With food prices climbing, you may want to take advantage of credit cards offering higher reward levels for grocery store purchases. ... (See Grocery rewards)
• 5 practical tips to tame impulse spending -- Impulse shoppers are the first to recognize that they have a problem, yet they’re often the last to take action. Here's how to deal with the underlying issues. ... (See Impulse shopping)
• How to beat the 7 deadly credit card sins -- Consumers can insulate themselves from financial disaster by standing up to temptation -- as long as gluttony doesn't get in the way ... (See Credit card sins)
• Pros, cons of Canada's first virtual store -- This month, Toronto's Union Station will turn into a virtual mall. But will Canadians buy products by scanning codes displayed on wall posters? ... (See Virtual shopping)
• How to build sustainable emergency savings -- Careful planning is the best defence against a personal financial crisis. Here's how to develop an emergency nest egg for when you need it most. ... (See Emergency funds)
• Top 3 credit cards' concierge services -- What exactly are credit card concierge services, and are they worth signing up for? We compared three of the best cards that come with concierge benefits. ... (See Concierge cards)
• 5 most common credit report errors -- Credit reports influence your ability to get a loan, credit card, apartment lease, and even a job. Here’s how to ensure your credit profile is in good order. ... (See Credit report)
• Credit card perk: Free roadside assistance -- Only a handful of Canadian credit cards offer free roadside assistance. But if you're ever stranded in your car, roadside assistance can be a life-saver. ... (See Roadside)
• 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! ... (See Credit clutter)
• Editor's choice: Top U.S. dollar credit cards -- For Canucks who cross-border shop or buy online from U.S. retailers, you might want to consider applying for a U.S. dollar card for Canadian residents. ... (See U.S. Cards)
• 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. ... (See Money games)
• 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 ... (See Money humour)
• 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 ... (See Negative option billing)
• 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 ... (See 5 money resolutions)
• 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 ... (See Credit scores and insurance)
• 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 ... (See Credit card tips)
• Store credit cards: The good, the bad and the ugly -- Store credit cards offer some unique advantages, but are they worth their potentially high costs? Here's what you need to know to decide whether specialized retailer cards are right for your wallet ... (See Store credit card pros and cons)
• 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 ... (See Love and money)
• 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 ... (See Credit card mistakes)
• 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 ... (See Best balance transfer cards)
• 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 ... (See Balance transfer tips)
• 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 ... (See Choosing a financial planner)
• 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 ... (See Credit score mistakes)
• 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." ... (See Expert Q&A)
• 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 ... (See Money lessons)
• 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 ... (See Risky scenarios)
• 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 ... (See Online budgeting tools)
• 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 ... (See Savings tips for college students)
• The best Canadian credit card movie deals -- Has the prospect of a double-dip recession got you down? CreditCards.ca may have the perfect tonic for your blues -- some super movie discounts that will make you smile like Jim Carrey ... (See Silver screen savings)
• 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 ... (See Author Q&A)
• 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 ... (See Refund)
• 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? ... (See Deals)
• 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 ... (See Mobile)
• 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 ... (See Debt traps)
• 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 ... (See Travel credit cards)
• 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 ... (See Loan sharks)
• 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 ... (See Gas rewards)
• 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 ... (See Free coverage)
• 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 ... (See Alumni credit cards)
• 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 ... (See Financial planner)
• 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 ... (See Expert Q&A)
• 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 ... (See Cancelling a loved one's credit cards)
• 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 ... (See Author Q&A)
• 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 ... (See Bad credit options)
• 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 ... (See Debt)
• 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 ... (See Fees)
• 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 ... (See Ringtones)
• 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 ... (See Auction)
• 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 ... (See Unclaimed cash)
• 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 ... (See Loan scams)
• 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 ... (See Credit card insurance complaints)
• 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 ... (See Claim)
• 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 ... (See Save now)
• The top 10 reasons why Canadians go bankrupt -- CreditCards.ca takes a look at the primary causes of Canadian consumer bankruptcies and shares key insights on how to avoid severe financial stress ... (See Extreme debt)
• 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 ... (See Credit score)
• 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 ... (See Cost of insurance)
• 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 ... (See 10 must-watch videos)
• 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 ... (See Prepaid cards)
• 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 ... (See Credit repair)
• 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. ... (See Fight back)
• 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 ... (See Outrageous song lyrics)
• 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 ... (See Your rights)
• 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. ... (See Learn more)
• Experts to Generation Y: Save with your credit card -- If you're struggling on a limited income, but you want to pay off your debt and save at least something for the future, what should you do? The secret could be in your wallet -- as long as you're smart about you use it ... (See Save more now)