We are living in the age of consumer credit and household debt. People living the United States are waking up to find themselves sinking in the mound of debt that they seem to have created. It is not far fetched these days to find people as much in debt as $20,000.
People want a sure a proven way to improve their credit. This desire is certainly on the rise as people feel more and more pressure as they pile on more and more debt that they cannot afford. Going on a budget seems to be cruel and unusual punishment for many, as they often overlook the value of this system of financial planning. However, the use of a certain type of credit card may indeed help your credit and get rid of the idea that budgets are all bad.
In addition to being extremely helpful, these credit cards also provide consumers with bad credit, who've been denied traditional credit cards and bank account, a way out of their misery. It is common knowledge that here in the United States, there must be two people earning income in a household for a comfortable lifestyle to be maintained. Moreover, if two people are working outside the home, then who is left to do the budgeting and financial planning?
They say that the way to eat an elephant is one bit at a time. Let's take our first bit and analyze both secured and pre-paid credit cards, and the cons and pros with each for your situation.
Secured Credit Cards Advantages - Getting a secured credit card account is an easy and cheap way to begin boosting your credit. Damaged credit can also be improved with these types of cards. They can be used the same way in which you would use and Visa or Mastercard.
Disadvantages - A slight drawback from these types of cards is that in order to get one, you must put down a significant deposit, somewhere between $200 and $300 in order to secure them. The credit companies may also charge you yearly fees that make the card expensive. In addition, the interest rate on these cards tends to be higher than the norm. However, these cards can be your resolution to getting a better credit score.
Pre-Paid Credit Cards Pros - A pre-paid credit card can be a great way to provide you with the freedom and flexibility of having your own credit card, without having to be in debt. While these cards look and feel like every other credit card, and can be spent in all the same places, these cards require you to put money on the. In effect, you are spending your own money just like cash. The approval process for this type of card is easy and is a definite guarantee.
Cons - If you are looking to rebuild or establish your credit however, beware. These cards may not report your repayment history to the credit bureaus. If the creditor does not report your account, this type of account will not help you improve your credit. By carefully selecting these cards, you can assure yourself that you receive the most bangs for your proverbial buck.
Remember also that pre-paid cards may not necessarily be accepted in all situation especially for hotel or car rentals. They also may not allow you to secure the reservation with on of these cards. To be on the safe side, always call ahead of time to verify that a particular vendor accepts the kind of card with which you wish to pay.
Author Resource:
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