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Credit Card Basics

A basic knowledge of credit cards is important for using them responsibly. Learn the key credit cards terms, the different types of cards, and how to choose a card.
5 Ways Finance Charges Are Calculated

Finance charges are applied to credit card balances that aren't paid before the grace period. Different credit cards calculate finance charges in different ways. To find out how your creditor calculates your charge, look on the back of a recent billing statement. You should find an explanation there.

Below are six ways finance charges can be calculated. Click on the links for a more…

Tips For Choosing Credit Cards
You should consider different factors when you choose different types of credit cards. Learn more about choosing various credit cards.
Common Credit Card Fees
Credit cards aren't free. Find out some of the most commonly charged credit card fees and when you might get charged. Since different types of credit cards charge different kinds of fees, it's a good idea to know when your credit card might charge you.
Types of Credit Cards
Since each consumer's financial needs are different, it makes sense that there are different types of credit cards. Before you apply for a credit card, become familiar with the various kinds of credit cards to make sure you're choosing the best credit card for you.
How The Credit Card Process Works
Get a better understanding of how the credit card process works from making purchases to making payments.
Which Credit Cards Should I Pay
If you ever wonder the best way to pay off your credit cards, here are some tips to help you make those decisions each month.
Credit Card Features
Explanation of the most common features of a credit card including types of credit cards, interest rate, grace period, fees, and finance charge.
Credit Cards To Stay Away From
There are a lot of bad credit cards out there. Learn to recognize the features of the worst credit cards.
How To Negotiate A Lower Credit Card Interest Rate
How to talk your creditors into lowering your interest rate on some or all of your credit cards.
Get Rewarded For Using Your Credit Card
Find out about the different rewards offered by credit cards and how to decide which reward program is best for you.
Apply For A Balance Transfer Credit Card
Don't be roped in by advertisements for zero percent introductory rates. Read between the lines and ask questions to make sure you're choosing the right balance transfer credit card.
Adjusted Balance Finance Charge Calculation
The adjusted balance method of calculating your finance charge uses your previous balance less any payments and credits made during the billing cycle.
Ending Balance Method of Calculating Finance Charges
The ending balance method of calculating your finance charge uses the balance at the end of the billing cycle.
Previous Balance Finance Charge Calculation
The previous balance method of calculating your finance charge uses the balance at the beginning of your billing cycle.
Daily Balance Finance Charge Calculation Method
The daily balance method of calculating finance charges uses the actual balance each day in the billing cycle.
Average Daily Balance Finance Charge Calculation
Average daily balance is one of the ways your creditor might calculate your finance charge. Find out how the calculation works.
Choose a Rewards Credit Card
Learn the most important features of a rewards credit card and get tips on how to choose one.
Choose A Credit Card
There are certain factors to consider in choosing a credit card. Get these key questions answered before you fill out that credit card application
What Credit Card Numbers Mean
Ever wondered what those digits on your credit card mean? The mystery is solved here.
Credit Card Catches
With most good deals, there's some sort of catch. Credit cards are no exception. Make sure you know the credit card catches before you start swiping.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act
Credit card companies are governed by a law known as the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Learn what creditors can and can't do under this law.
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