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SECURED CREDIT CARDS
A secured credit card can put you on the right track when entering the world of credit or rebuilding that credit history after a bankruptcy or other credit problems. Eight years ago, a friend of mine filed bankruptcy following her bitter divorce battle. At the time, she was only twenty-five but was left in credit card ruin. She felt like it was her only option.
Last month, this same friend called and informed me that she had just purchased a new home. My first question was, "How did you do that?" She explained that she had immediately begun to rebuild her credit history with a secured credit card. Does this sound like you? If it seems that your credit history is ruined forever, you should take a serious look at what a secured credit card could do for your credit report.
A secured credit card is basically the same as an unsecured credit card; it has the same features, flexibility and use. There is no print on the card that identifies it as a secured card-that's just between the card holder and the issuer. And just like any other credit card, it's accepted at merchants throughout the world who accept credit cards.
To get a secured credit card, you must first open a savings account or a CD account in your name. Next, you'll have to deposit a certain sum of money into the account, which will serve as the
collateral for the card. For example, if you deposit $500 into the bank account, then the credit limit on the card will be $500. If you are ever in default with the card, the bank will have the right to take the money from the savings or CD account to pay the balance. The money you deposit will earn interest, but you will be restricted from removing it from the account at any time. (Unless you cancel the card with no balance on it.) The secured credit card issuer will determine the amount of the deposits.
You will be responsible for paying the credit card bill every month, just like you would an unsecured card. Every time you make a payment on time, it will show as a good mark on your credit report. But by warned! Every time you are late, that will show up, too! In addition, just like a regular credit card, you will pay fees and interest if the balance isn't paid in full each month.
Eventually, as you build a good credit history with the issuer, they may increase your limit on the secured credit card or offer you an unsecured card with a low credit limit. Either way, you are on your way to building a good credit rating, which will allow you to live your life with more flexibility.
Could you benefit from some good marks on your credit report? If so, you should check out what a secured credit card can do for you!
Written By: David Knop