Archive for October, 2011

First PREMIER Bank Credit Cards – Here’s a Card That Might be Right for You

Saturday, October 29th, 2011

Is your credit history less than perfect? If so, First PREMIER Bank credit cards may be just what you need. First PREMIER Bank credit cards are a good option for those with poor or limited credit history. They offer low interest rates, instant credit decision features, and monthly reporting to 4 credit bureaus.

Who the Card is For

The First PREMIER Bank credit card is available for consumers who have had trouble getting approved for a major credit card. If you have a history of poor credit, it may be difficult to get a traditional credit card. The First PREMIER Bank credit card offers you the chance to have a credit card in your wallet despite your credit history.

Enjoy the Features

First PREMIER Bank credit card applications have an instant credit decision feature. When you apply online, you will know in less than a minute if you have been approved. The credit cards also offer low interest rates, starting at 9.9% APR on purchases. (If the exact APR is mentioned, a link must be given to the Fee, Rate, etc. at the site.)

Understand the Fees

Since these credit cards are designed for those with less than perfect credit, certain fees are added. It is important to understand the charges before applying. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

• An account set-up fee of $29
• A program fee of $95
• An annual fee of $48
• A monthly participation fee of $6

These may seem steep; however, the first two fees ($29 and $95) are only one-time charges. Also, keep in mind that these credit cards are for consumers with less than perfect credit. Similar charges are common among this type of credit card. By paying these fees, you receive the convenience of having a credit card and its associated services.

Use the Card that Reports to 4 Credit Bureaus

The initial credit limit is at least $250. The fees listed above reduce your available credit until they are paid. If you are given $250 as an initial line of credit and receive the fees listed above, your available credit will be $72.

While this may seem low, remember that First PREMIER Bank credit cards offer you the chance to apply for credit when others may not. Start by paying off the fees. Then try to pay off the balance each month. If you are not able to pay the entire amount, make a minimum payment on time. This is your chance to show that you can manage your finances. First PREMIER Bank reports monthly to four major credit bureaus.

After six months, you are eligible for consideration for a higher credit limit. Through good performance with all your creditors, you may get other credit card offers in the future.

Apply Today

First PREMIER Bank provides you with an opportunity to apply for a credit card. Before applying, make sure you understand the fees. Once you receive the credit card, pay off your balances, including the fees, as soon as possible. Set up a system where you spend reasonably and make payments on time.

Click Here to Find credit-card-surplus.com/badcredit.php First Premier Bank Credit Card Offers.

Ed Vegliante runs the website Credit-Card-Surplus.com Credit-Card-Surplus.com , a well organized credit card directory enabling the consumer to compare and apply for a variety of credit card offers. View more credit-card-surplus.com/articles.php Credit Card Articles.

The Truth About Bankruptcy

Saturday, October 29th, 2011

Myth: I’ll just file bankruptcy and start over; it seems so easy.
Truth: Bankruptcy is a gut-wrenching, life-changing event that causes lifelong damage.

Bankruptcy. That word sends chills up the spine. If you’re facing the prospect of bankruptcy or you’re in the middle of it right now, you know it’s a living nightmare. It can devastate your job, destroy your marriage and steal your peace of mind.
Kathy called my radio show, ready to file bankruptcy. Her debts were overwhelming, and her cheating husband had left with his girlfriend. The house was in his name, as was all the debt except $11,000. Kathy was 20 years old, and her “brilliant” uncle – a lawyer from California – told her to file bankruptcy. Kathy was beat up, beat down, and deserted without help, but she was not bankrupt. When her soon-to-be ex-husband ends up with all the debt in his name, he may be bankrupt, but Kathy won’t be.

Why Avoid Bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is not something I recommend any more than I would recommend divorce. Are there times when good people see no way out and file bankruptcy? Yes, but I will still talk you out of bankruptcy if given the opportunity. Few people who have been through bankruptcy would report that it is a painless wiping-clean of the slate, after which you merrily trot off into your future to start fresh.
Don’t let anyone fool you. I have been through bankruptcy and have worked with bankruptcy for decades, and it is not a place you want to visit. Bankruptcy is listed in the top five life-altering negative events that we can go through, along with divorce, severe illness, disability, and loss of a loved one. I would never say that bankruptcy is as bad as losing a loved one, but it is life-altering and leaves deep wounds both to the psyche and the credit report.

Types of Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, which is total bankruptcy, stays on your credit report for 10 years. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, more like a payment plan, stays on your credit report for seven years. Bankruptcy, however, is for life. Loan applications and many job applications ask if you have ever filed for bankruptcy. Ever. If you lie to get a loan because your bankruptcy is very old, technically you have committed criminal fraud.
Most bankruptcy cases can be avoided with proper help, such as my certified counselors and the Total Money Makeover. Your Total Money Makeover may involve extensive amputation of stuff, which will be painful, but bankruptcy is much more painful. If you take the thoughtful step backward to get on solid ground instead of looking at the false allure of the quick fix that bankruptcy seems to offer, you will win more quickly and easily. I know from personal experience the pain of bankruptcy, foreclosure, and lawsuits. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt, and it is not worth it.

This content is provided by daveramsey.com DaveRamsey.com and may be used only in its entirety with all links included. Dave Ramsey is changing the face of America by helping people beat debt and build wealth with his best-selling book, The Total Money Makeover, and nationally syndicated radio show, The Dave Ramsey Show. Read more of what Dave says about daveramsey.com/the_truth_about/bankruptcy_3018.html.cfm bankruptcy daveramsey.com/the_truth_about/bankruptcy_3018.html.cfm .

Credit Card Loans 101

Friday, October 28th, 2011

In the fast-paced, retail-giant ruled world of today, credit cards have become a common accessory around the whole globe, with most people claiming that they cannot imagine surviving without a number of cards in their wallet. As acquiring credit cards becomes easier, the world seems to be running solely on credit, with most people spending more money then they really possess, and then suffering the backlash if they are unable to repay the loan.

When we spend money using a credit card, it’s not money in our possession but is what we borrow from the credit card company on the premise of repayment by the end of the month; which is why this spending is classified as a loan. Credit card loans also come in the form of cash when we use the cards to withdraw money from ATM’s.

At the end of the month, credit card users are sent a bill which they are supposed to pay before the due date. The bill represents the money that has been spent during the month, along with service charges and interest rates, which vary according to the terms and credit card providers. If you pay before the due date, the charges are often nominal, and the whole system proves to be quite beneficial; if the loan isn’t returned on time, there are serious consequences. Astronomical late fees and interest rates are charged on the amount, which increase as time passes; and your credit report may also get a few red marks which affects your chances of acquiring future loans.

Most credit cards loans are unsecured, which means no collateral is offered by the borrower. This makes it much easier to obtain a credit card – especially if you have a clean credit history – and allows people with no valued property to also spend using a line of credit. The reason why credit cards loans often have very high fees upon non-payment is because the loans are not secure, and thus the company cannot legally seize any of the borrower’s belongings. Unsecured loans also mean that if you have a bad credit score, or your background doesn’t check out, it’s very difficult to obtain credit cards since every company requires confirmation that they are dealing with a borrower who will be able to reimburse the amount spent. Just like the amount lent depends on the value of the collateral offered in secured loans; the terms of an unsecured loan are based on a borrower’s credit history.

With the growth of competition, credit card companies have also cashed into what people call the ‘loan sharking’ business. Since most credit card loans are unsecured, the companies have the power to slap any late charges they wish and increase the interest rates. Credit loan sharks also operate using the ‘Universal Default’ provision, which runs on the principle that if a borrower is late in paying another creditor altogether, the introductory rates offered to the borrower may also sky rocket. The unsettling part is that these companies aren’t even breaking the law, but in fact seem to be penning them.

As this dog eat dog business grows, there are rumors of a bill in congress which aims at capping late payments and interest rates and abolishing the ‘Universal Default’ provision.

Even though unsecured credit card loans are easy to obtain, it’s even easier to get pulled into the cycle of debt, which is why it’s better to spend amounts which you can easily return.

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Ten Tips for Successful Currency Trading

Friday, October 28th, 2011

Here are 10 tips for successful currency trading, and if you can implement them in your trading plan, your chances of trading success will be greatly enhanced.

1. Desire to Succeed – All the great traders have a burning desire to succeed and will do whatever is necessary to succeed.

2. Work Smart, not Hard – The amount of effort you put into currency trading has no influence on the amount of money you will make.

3. Simple Systems are better than Complicated Ones! – Many traders think the more complex a system is the more likely it is to succeed, but the opposite is actually true.

4. Don’t make Trades that are Uncomfortable – Trading is difficult, as you have to make trades sometimes to be successful that go against the majority of advice, you see (don’t forget most traders lose) so you need to take responsibility for your actions and act independently.

5. Discipline – Many traders have good trading methods that could make money, but they lack the discipline to execute the signals of their method.

6. Confidence – To trade in a disciplined manner you must have complete confidence in your ability to make money longer term.

7. Patience – Many traders think they always need to be in the market to make money, but the opposite is true.

8. Play Great Defence – All the great traders know that money management is one of the keys to trading success and they always protect their equity.

9. Be Realistic – We have all read stories of traders turning small amounts of money into fortunes quickly. While some traders have been able to do this, the reality for most traders is not so easy.

10. Know Yourself – By this, we mean you will know your strengths and weaknesses. By knowing yourself you will know what you are trying to achieve, how to do it and emerge a winner, which at the end of the day is what currency trading is all about.

So there, you have 10 tips for currency trading success. If you can absorb them all and implement them in your plan, these tips for successful currency trading will put you on the road to longer-term financial success. Good luck!

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Reviews on Top 3 Online Tax Preparation Services

Friday, October 28th, 2011

Intuit Turbo Tax Premier Federal State 2006

This software costs approximately $65 and is considered one of the best tax software programs for those who need to file complex returns. Some people have easy returns and others very complex ones. For those who have complex returns and want to file their taxes online the Intuit Turbo Tax Premier Federal program is excellent. The Turbo Tax software is considered better than TaxCut and most people who need great online tax software will find that Turbo Tax is excellent and affordable. The reason this tax software is considered so excellent is because it helps with complicated scenarios like depreciation refinancing, business deductions, multiple stock sales, and the like. So, if you have complicated tax returns and you are interested in tax preparation services like this software then the Intuit Turbo Tax Premier Federal State 2006 is for you. This software will help you file tax online including your federal return as well as one free download of the state software you will need. When you efile you will also be required to $14.95 for each additional return.

Intuit Turbo Tax Deluxe Federal State 2006

Another outstanding software to file your taxes online is the Intuit Turbo Tax Deluxe Federal State 2006. This is better for individuals who do not have super complicated returns like rental properties or multiple stock sales. This software costs about $40 and may be purchased at most stores that sell software. This software includes both federal and state tax returns. Videos and help with Schedule A deductions as well as charitable donations, but the additional help for rental property questions or other investments are not addressed in this online tax software. An even cheaper version of this software is available for $20 that is just federal.

H&R Black TaxCut Premium State 2006

This online tax software costs about $25, which is very affordable .This software is considered the best software for those on a budget. It does not rank as high as TurboTax Premier, but it is significantly cheaper and that is worthwhile to many consumers. If your taxes are pretty easy then this may be the best software for you. Plus, once you learn how to use it you will find it easy to file your taxes each and every year. A bonus is that if you are audited H&R Block will prepare you for the meetings for free as long as you efile your return. E-filing costs an extra $16 for each tax return.

Caitlina Fuller is a freelance writer. The Turbo Tax software is considered better than TaxCut and most people who need great express1040.com/ online tax software will find that Turbo Tax is excellent and affordable. This software will help you express1040.com/ file tax online including your federal return as well as one free download of the state software you will need. When you efile you will also be required to $14.95 for each additional return.

Credit Cards For Easier Payments

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

No need to carry cash anymore to make your payments. With the introduction of credit cards life has become simpler with easy payments and you no longer need to carry a fat wallet when you go shopping.

VISA and MasterCard are the most popular credit card companies throughout the world. Commercial banks in collaboration with these companies help provide credit card services, also known as plastic money. With so many options in the credit card market, it is important to know what features your card provides.

First and foremost is the annual fee that credit card companies charge. The annual fees may range from $25 to more than $100. The fee depends on the type of card you choose. To attract customers banks sometimes waive the first year annual fee and often offer a one-time membership charge. You should also find out beforehand the other type of fees that the company charges – balance transfer fee, over-the-credit-limit fee, credit-limit-increase fee and others.

The grace period to make payments is another important consideration. The grace period is normally a certain number of days from the statement date. Payments not made within the grace period will incur late payment fees.

Most credit cards allow cash advances from ATMs. For cash advances, a cash advance fee is charged, which is normally a percentage of the cash withdrawal made. Most cards do not allow any grace period for cash advances and interest is charged from the day of the cash advance.

Credit cards may be of many types – silver, gold or platinum. The credit limit normally depends on the type of card you choose. The type of card offered depends on your income level. Cards with higher credit limits normally attract higher fees but also come with additional features. Additional features may include discounts on purchases, money back on frequent use, accident insurance etc.

It is important that you carefully read the application form before signing on the dotted line. An application does not imply acceptance by the company. Credit card processing takes time and your personal details will be thoroughly checked before your application is accepted.

It is always advisable to make purchases within your financial limits. However, there are many people who face credit card debt problems. The best way to eliminate these debt is to enroll in a credit card debt consolidation program. Debt consolidation programs help reduce the debt burden and allow repayment with easy monthly installments. Do a thorough research and check the credibility of the company before choosing a debt consolidation plan.

For more on free-credit-card-offer.info/sitemap.html Credit Cards visit get-your-credit-card.info get-your-credit-card.info and free-credit-card-offer.info free-credit-card-offer.info.

Personal Loan After Bankruptcy: Can You Qualify?

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

If you want to qualify for a personal loan after bankruptcy there are four key areas that will determine how successful you are:

1) Your credit score

2) Collateral

3) Existing debt

4) Time

Let’s look at each factor in more detail and how they can help you increase your chances of qualifying for a personal loan after bankruptcy:

1) Credit score: In order to qualify for a personal loan after bankruptcy you will need to meet the lender’s minimum credit score criteria, provided the lender extends loans to individuals with a recent bankruptcy. You’ll want to find out before applying for a loan: Simply ask the lender if they consider applicants with a bankruptcy on their credit report.

Let’s suppose the lender does. How can you increase your credit score enough to qualify for a personal loan after bankruptcy?

The first step is to order copies of your credit reports from the three major credit reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax, and Trans Union). Next, make sure any inaccurate or obsolete negative information on your credit reports is removed or updated. I go into detail on this in After Bankruptcy Credit Solutions. I also explain how to legally add positive lines of credit to your credit reports, which is a very powerful way to increase your credit score – but I’ll save that for another article.

2) Collateral: Another major factor in obtaining a personal loan after bankruptcy is how much collateral you have. Why? Because if a lender has collateral that they can go after (i.e., equity in your home) should you default on the loan, that reduces their risk dramatically. So if you can provide collateral to the lender, it can increase your chances of qualifying for a personal loan after bankruptcy.

3) Existing debt: You don’t want to have too much debt when you apply for a personal loan after bankruptcy. If you do, the lender may feel you don’t have the capacity (enough income) to cover the loan payment, because you have too many other monthly expenses to pay (i.e., credit cards, auto payment, etc.) – as a result you could get turned for a personal loan after bankruptcy.

On that note, find out if the lender has a minimum income requirement, or debt-to-income ratio you need to meet. If they do, make sure you meet their minimum requirement before you apply for the loan.

4) Time: It’s been said that “time heals all wounds” – well, when it comes to obtaining a personal loan after bankruptcy this can certainly be true if you’ve developed a positive payment history since your bankruptcy.

When a lender is deciding whether or not to extend you a personal loan after bankruptcy, your credit report will play a major role. Generally speaking, if your credit report reflects a positive payment history for at least two years since your bankruptcy, it will certainly help.

We have looked at the four major factors that will determine whether or not you qualify for a personal loan after bankruptcy: Your credit score, collateral, existing debt, and time. To the extent you can strengthen each one of these you increase your chances of being approved for a personal loan after bankruptcy.

Even if you can’t qualify for a personal loan after bankruptcy immediately, don’t be discouraged! Remember, time can heal all wounds when it comes to qualifying for a personal loan after bankruptcy. Just make sure to focus on increasing your credit score, pay your existing bills on time, don’t take on too much debt, and build up your net worth.

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Copyright © 2006 Innovative Solutions Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

The company and product/service names referenced in this article are the trademarks, registered trademarks or service marks of their respective owners. None of the owners have sponsored or endorsed this article.

DISCLAIMER:

This information is designed to provide only a general overview of the subject matter herein.

This information is provided with the understanding that neither the publisher nor author is engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional advice. If legal or other expert assistance is required, the services of a professional should be sought.

Neither the publisher nor author shall be liable for any loss or damages, including but not limited to special, consequential, incidental or other damages, caused by the information contained herein.

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R. Lawrence Anderson is author of bankruptcy-credit-solutions.com After Bankruptcy Credit Solutions, which shows individuals how to qualify for credit and loans after bankruptcy. For details visit: bankruptcy-credit-solutions.com bankruptcy-credit-solutions.com

Pros & Cons of a Credit Card

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

Having credit cards is a trend nowadays. Credit cards could truly be helpful in times of financial crisis and during emergency situations. They could also provide you with the accessibility and convenience of cashless payments. If used appropriately, credit cards could surely improve your financial condition.

However, there are also several cons in having credit cards. Sometimes, fees may get out of hand due to the high interest rates that most banks charge. Add to the fact that sometimes, there are additional payments that you would have to pay that your are not initially aware of. Credit card could also contribute to your financial disaster, if improperly used.

Applying for a credit should not be an impulsive decision. Do not fill out an application form just because your company or your favorite store endorses it. It should be given careful thought and consideration to your payoff capability and needs. Banks have great marketing strategies that would definitely lure you. 0% APR or low interest rates are good ways in attracting customers. However, it is common knowledge that there are clauses in fine print which make these offers not as good as they initially seem.

People who have rushed their credit card application without understanding all the fees associated with the card will possibly experience difficulties in repaying the debt. Some credit card companies are not as transparent as they should be. That is why you must take extra effort in getting all the facts.

Before applying for a credit card, evaluate your financial capacity first. Most banks offer better deals to borrowers who gave a great credit score so better make sure that your records are set straight. You could always get a free online credit report.

Next would be to do some researches. The internet is a huge library. A few minutes online would give you thousands of results regarding credit card applications. Be sure to understand all the terms and conditions associated with each credit card offer to avoid marketing traps and tricks. Most common tricks are great introductory offers but once the period is over, your interest rates would sky rocket.

You could also consider the rewards and other credit card features. These should be in accordance to your needs. When searching, try to shortlist those credit cards which you would likely benefit from.

The internet also offers fast application and approval of credit cards. You can just visit the website of the banks and they have downloadable forms that you could fill out to complete the application process. Within minutes, you’ll know if your credit card has been approved. This is what they refer to as instant credit cards. You will have instant access to your credit line which you may use online though you would have to wait a few days to get the card in the mail.

Once you have finally decided on what credit card to apply, again review its policies. Remember that as much as a credit card is a privilege, it is also a responsibility. The moment you have affixed your signature on the application form, you have agreed to be liable for all the purchases you will make using the card.

By having a credit card, life’s emergencies would not be a problem anymore. You wouldn’t have to have readily available cash. All you need would be your credit card and you should be able to pay for the car repair or overdue bills immediately. Credit card gives you a certain amount of financial security, but just be wary of you how you use the card. It could also lead to a lot of financial losses.

Ed Adubofuor offers low interest

There are Plenty of Reasons to Look into Government Student Loan Consolidation as an Option

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

Government student loan consolidation is a great idea, as interest rates are at record lows, no matter if you are an undergrad, or have already graduated.

Government student loan consolidation programs can be a wonderful tool to lower payments on your student loans. You may have to go to a longer term than you currently have, but the interest rates right now are great. Everyone who has student loans should at least look into this option before rates go up.

Some of the benefits of consolidation include: Protecting your credit rating, You can save money over the life of the loan.
There are also programs for those of us who may have had a stumble or two. For those who have several student loans, government student loan consolidation will combine them into one lower monthly payment. For many people this makes managing your monthly bills easier.

If you are reasonably close to paying off your loans and you can afford the payments government student loan consolidation is probably not a good option.

It is always better to be out of debt completely than to prolong it with lower monthly payments. Refinancing any loan than will soon be paid off is never a good idea, remember the ultimate goal is to be out of debt completely.

Government student loan consolidation should be used as a tool to get a better start in life. After graduation the majority of students today face overwhelming debt that has accumulated during their college years. When you add to that the debt of buying a home and starting a family, the pressure can quickly mount as you are trying to start a new career. I encourage everyone no matter what their circumstances to always take advantage of each opportunity to strengthen your financial standing.

T. Grimsley is a staff writer for Wongaa.com. Wongaa focuses on many of the issues facing young Americans today. If you would like to read more about these issues please visit us at: best-wiki.com/ Best Wiki

Forex – Understanding Margin and Leverage

Wednesday, October 26th, 2011

The foreign exchange (FOREX) market allows investors to trade on margin. This can be very advantageous to the trader, since the trader does not have to own all the money he or she actually trades. This is made possible through a device called leverage. What exactly are margin and leverage and what role do they play in the process of trading currency?

What Is Margin?

Margin is the actual amount of money available to trade in an investor’s account. The investor may, for example, open an account and deposit the amount of $10,000 for trading purposes. This initial deposit of $10,000 is the investor’s margin. Margin is, however, directly affected by the results of the investor’s trading activity, increasing and decreasing with every transaction..

What Is Leverage?

Even with a relatively modest level of margin, a trader can control a much larger stake of money for trading. Through a concept called leverage, it possible for the investor to trade in many multiples of the actual dollars owned, or margin. The difference between the actual margin and the total amount traded is, in effect, a loan made by the broker to the account holder.

How Much Leverage Is Available?

A typical maximum level of leverage provided by most brokers would be 100:1. This means that for every dollar of margin in the trader’s account, the broker will allow 100 dollars to be traded. However, across the spectrum of brokerage firms, one will find the maximum ranging from 50:1 to 400:1 of leverage. Trading at a leverage of 400:1 is unadvisable for any novice investor and deserves a cautionary approach even by seasoned investors. While the potential for great profits exists through trading at high levels of leverage, the risk for large losses is also very high. Leverage is indeed a double-edged sword.

Balancing Margin And Leverage

There is an inverse relationship between leverage and margin. The higher the level of leverage is, the smaller the amount of margin that is required. Of course, trading with any amount of margin at any level of leverage should always be accompanied by a sense of responsibility. In trading, this responsibility comes in the form of utilizing proper money management to minimize the risks. In other words, being able to trade a lot of money with just a little money does not give reason to trade foolishly by taking extraordinary risks. In fact, the broker can and will institute margin calls to limit not only the investor’s losses, but also the broker’s own exposure in the marketplace.

Avoiding Margin Calls

Whether a margin call takes place or not depends on several factors, including leverage, margin, price direction, extent of negative trade position and the broker’s rules. A margin call takes place when the currency price moves unfavorably against the trader’s position, to the point where the amount of margin in the account is not enough to sustain further loss according to the broker’s standards. A convenient feature offered by some broker’s online trading platform is a margin calculator. This device allows the trader to predetermine the price level at which a margin call will take place, allowing for advance planning as well as mid-trade maneuvering to avoid this potentiality. Other risk control tools such as stops and trailing stops can also minimize the possibility of a margin call and help the trader enjoy a long and prosperous trading experience.

Sandy Robinson, J.D.

Copyright 2007

If you are ready to change your future by stepping into the exciting world of trading FOREX, go to winningtradersassociation.com winningtradersassociation.com for more information. Author Sandy Robinson, J.D. is part of the Winning Traders Association, an educational organization founded by John Beiler, President. The organization consists of a network of committed trainers and motivated traders willing to provide support to those interested in trading foreign exchange. Many of the members work from home.