Credit Brain Washing

Is it just me or is every single newscaster and public official trying to convince us the world is coming to an end? Over and over again they repeat the mantra of how the credit markets are frozen, credit limits are shrinking and the world will collapse in this environment. I am not saying times are not tougher, but I don't believe this is the great 'end'.

If this is the case, tell me why we (my husband and I) have received 12 credit card applications this week. I'm not kidding, in only 3 days of mail so far.

Okay, there was that 1 credit card that closed itself on me, but folks I think that was my fault. I totally stopped using it and was planning on closing the account anyway. I'm sure most companies will search their files and eliminate dead accounts, after all they probably create a paper work nightmare. Less is more in any business.

People can still find great 0% Balance Transfer Cards and not all have huge fees, and plenty have a nice long term. Don't believe me, check out the deals on credit cards and read the credit card applications. Many big name credit companies are dolling out the credit to those that are credit worthy and there even more for those with less then perfect credit.

Now, I'm not saying to dig yourself a financial hole, but to help fill your hole in with a credit tool is not always a bad idea. The object is to be an educated consumer. Find what works for you and utilize the sites and tools, like Credit Card Flyers, to find the right tool to maximize your dollars and build your wealth. Do not grab the first card that lands in your sites, look at a collection of them to compare side by side.

Things to consider:

• 0% balance transfer - high interest debt barely shrinking, this would help.
• 0% purchases - if you have a big mandatory expense, like a broken furnace this would help.
• APR After Initial Term - Don' t believe you can pay off this debt in the time allotted for 0%, make sure the rate to follow is low.
• Balance Transfer Fees - Tricky 3% spent is not 3% earned. Remember it is a cost in the front and if you are thinking of saving these dollars @ 3%, that 3% is split over a year or .25% a month. Do the right math to insure success.

It is much easier to make an educated choice with your money when you use a site like Credit Card Flyers, because they compile and do the hard digging for you. You just click and compare, then chose.

For more credit card helpers, scour the top of their site for: Credit Card Education & Credit Card Blog. Both will provide you with a ton more information then I can squeeze in here.