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  • How To Save On Gas: Easy Tips

    Smiles literally evaporate at gas pumps these days. Apparently, they are far more volatile than liquid gold (gas) and much more sensitive to fuel price fluctuations than financial indexes. With gas prices soaring virtually every week, it is no wonder many individuals are opting for either fuel-efficient cars or revisiting their driving habits altogether. We understand. Our mission at DontSpendMore.com is to save our customers as much money as possible every month. We have prepared this article How To Save On Gas: Easy Tips with that very purpose in mind. Done right, you could hundreds of dollars on gas costs alone.

    Here are some tips you may want to consider:

    Don’t tire your tires

    When it comes to fuel-efficiency, over 90% of individuals will look at their engines first. The truth is that your tires could be a major factor in driving up gas costs. If you really want to save on gas, take good care of your tires.

    Poor alignment, deflated tires, worn out rubber — all of these could force your engine to work harder (to overcome resistance and friction) and increase your gas costs. Maintaining your tires in good shape should be an absolute priority to save on gas costs.

    Revisit your driving habits

    Many drivers mistakenly believe that driving habits do not influence gas consumption. The truth is that poor driving habits can convert even a fuel-efficient car into a bank-breaking gas guzzler. Even small changes could go a long way toward reducing fuel costs.

    – Driving fast can cause increased gas utilization (acceleration consumes gas, a lot of gas). Consider slowing down on the road.

    – Keep a safe distance from the car ahead of you. You will have to brake less frequently and thus add more to your gas savings.

    Reduce engine overload

    From constantly-running air conditioners to “engine-unfriendly” devices, any activity that increases the load on your engine could spike up gas consumption and cost you dearly at the pump. While it may not be possible to shut down the air conditioner during summer (not recommended either), powering the conditioner off for a few minutes every time the car cools down may reduce the overall load on the engine. As a starting point, you could avoid parking in sunny areas and use special thermal coatings to ensure the car doesn’t over-heat naturally. A little circulation might help as well.

    Take a good look at your trunk

    Millions of individuals use their cars as spare (free!) storage rooms. To push the additional load, your car is going to use that much more gas. Go through your trunk (and your back seats) to find any weight-bearing items that can be eliminated.

    Idling could be expensive

    If you are going to wait for more than thirty seconds, turn the car off. An idle car consumes gas as well. Of course, if your wait is going to be less than thirty seconds, you won’t benefit much from this practice but if you are going to wait more than thirty seconds, turn off the car.

    Compare gas prices

    Now, this is so easy. There are so many online tools that will help you compare gas prices at multiple pumps. From smart phone apps to cutting-edge websites, just a few clicks could pull up the latest prices at pumps in your area. This one simple tip alone could save you hundreds of dollars every year.

    Logistics matter

    Online maps and GPS devices compare routes in terms of the time taken to get from A-B, but they will rarely tell you finer details about the number of stops, traffic conditions, the number of inclines you will have to drive on, and other road conditions that could increase gas consumption. If you drive to work every day, try taking different routes and measure the amount of gas consumed on each.

    Simply changing your route could add to the gas savings significantly. Leaving a few minutes early could offset any time-related disadvantage associated with the alternate route.

    Regular maintenance is important

    Don’t neglect on your car’s maintenance. Visit your mechanic every few months to check on engine oil, brake pads, air filters, and other mechanical failures. A well-maintained car will not only last longer, it could reduce gas consumption and save more money at the pump.

    Gas could evaporate

    Sure you know that, but did you know that if your fuel cap is not tightly secured you could be losing small amounts of gas every day. A simple manual inspection of your fuel cap could mitigate this problem in just two seconds.

    Gently tap the nozzle

    If you take a closer look at the pump, so many individuals pull out the nozzle in a hurry. This may look innocent but some gas inevitably falls on the floor. If you gently tap the nozzle before removing it, this little extra gas spillage could be avoided (add to your gas savings). Why would you want to throw away the gas? A small trickle may sound innocuous at first but if you add up the waste, in the long run you could be throwing away a much larger amount.

    Take advantage of gas credit cards, discounted gas cards, gift cards and other money-saving options

    Cashback rewards and percentage gas discounts are just two ways in which you could benefit from owning a gas credit card. Some cards may charge an annual fee. Do the math to see if owning the card saves you more money on gas than the cost of the annual fee. If so, it may be a good idea to sign up for a gas mile credit card. You can review your options at DontSpendMore.com

    Do let us know how much you saved on gas. We always love to hear from our readers.

  • Why You Should Have Separate Personal And Business Credit Cards

    A measurable percentage of small business owners continue using their personal credit cards for business related transactions. While there is nothing inherently wrong with the practice of using personal credit cards for business purposes, there are some distinct disadvantages that could cost a business dearly, in terms of both time and money. Separate personal and business credit cards could mitigate these unnecessary costs and save you a lot of headaches in terms of organization and categorization.

    Here are some reasons why you should have separate personal and business credit cards:

    Business credit cards offer streamlined reporting and expense categorization

    If you use your personal credit card for individual and business purposes, categorizing and separating expenses every month could cause headaches, not to mention wasted time. Errors could easily creep in, resulting in fewer deduction claims and increased taxes. If you add the opportunity cost for the time taken to handle the overall process, the costs could be very high even if handled by a minimum wage employee.

    A business credit card can not only make this process easy, you can actually take advantage of the convenience of automated categorization and reporting offered by many small business credit card companies. Some business credit cards will automatically mail you an annual statement with an aggregated summary of your expenses (and categories). Some would even allow you to download this summary to your favorite spreadsheet or accounting program.

    Dedicated customer support and lesser wait time for business credit cards

    Dedicated specialists are specially allocated to support business customers. This could mean potentially faster access to support and a higher level of extremely knowledgeable support. The number of business credit card users tends to be lower in comparison to personal credit users, so the wait time on your calls could be significantly less.

    Business credit cards offer pre-negotiated discounts and deals, perkier credit lines

    Given the mass of customers, business credit cards often negotiate special deals and savings for business customers. These could range from savings on office supplies to travel rewards and special business discounts and deals. Furthermore, the credit line tends to be higher as well.

    Access to networking opportunities and business resources

    In contrast to personal credit cards, business credit cards leverage a vast pool of resources, facilitate networking with other business owners, provide several business resources, and help business owners take advantage of a large number of community resources.

    Longer promotional periods

    If you have ever come across a 0% APR credit card offer, you know that the offer is restricted to a specific duration, after which the regular APR is triggered (often a much high number). While personal credit cards could have a promotional period of six months to eighteen months, business credit cards have relatively longer introductory periods — though not always.

    Despite these advantages, some business credit cards may have higher APRs after the promotional period and also specific business-related fees. Always read the fine print and make sure you understand the terms clearly.

  • Creepy Credit Report Errors Could Cost You Dearly

    Credit reports are not perfect. From reporting jobs you never had to delinquencies you never caused, serious errors could inadvertently creep into your credit report and literally wreak havoc with your personal, professional, and financial life. Millions of individuals are denied credit every year, primarily due to credit related issues. The good news is that a significant percentage of these denials could be easily mitigated by reviewing and correcting credit report errors.

    We have prepared some preliminary tips to help you obtain your credit report and also dispute inconsistencies and errors that don’t belong there.

    Credit reports, a primer

    For those who have never reviewed one, a credit report is a basic fact sheet containing critical information about your transaction history, employment data, address, and personal financial information that is reported to the three major credit bureaus. The report is made available to a wide range of parties, including financial institutions, lenders, employers, and other parties who may want to review your credit history. While there are many versions of your credit report, three major credit bureaus compile and sell this information: Experian, Transunion, and Equifax.

    Every time you make a payment (or not), initiate a transaction, receive a new credit line increase — all of that information is organized, documented, and recorded with the major credit bureaus.

    The law is on your side

    According to The Federal Trade Commission, “The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) promotes the accuracy and privacy of information in the files of the nation’s credit reporting companies.” Under the FCRA, you are entitled to one free credit report every year from all the major bureaus. You can download your report at annualcreditreport.com. FREE!

    It is absolutely imperative that you take advantage of the free credit report every year. Not only does it offer you the opportunity to spot and correct factual errors, you can also monitor your report to determine if you have been a victim of identity theft. Why would you want to enrich unscrupulous credit thieves at the cost of your hard-earned credit?

    What if you have been a victim of credit report errors?

    Even a small error on your credit report could spike interest rates, lead to credit denials, ruin your chances of homeownership, and jeopardize some (though not all) employment opportunities. After reviewing your credit report, if you feel that there is an error in the reporting, please don’t let it pass. Take immediate remedial action.

    First, send a dispute letter (for a sample dispute letter visit ftc.gov) to the credit reporting agency and creditor/information provider. Provide copies of supporting documentation and mail your documentation using Certified Mail With Return Receipt.

    The agency will initiate an internal investigation and also involve the information provider if necessary.

    Generally, the credit reporting agency will review your information and respond within thirty days if your claim has merit. If corrections are initiated, you can ask the agency to send a revised and corrected report to any organization that received the incorrect report.

    It is always a good idea to regularly monitor your report and identify and mitigate credit report errors.

  • How To Negotiate Low Credit Card Interest Rates

    Nearly ninety percent of credit card users assume that credit card interest rates are non-negotiable. While it is true that the process has become much more difficult than it used to be, theoretically it may still be possible to work with your credit card company to lower your interest rates. Think about it: If you can negotiate even a nominal one percent reduction in your credit card interest rate, you could end up saving hundreds of dollars every year if you carry a substantial balance. Over a period of time, these savings add up.

    While there is no guarantee that your lender may agree, here are some common sense approaches you may want to consider:

    What causes credit card interest rates to go up

    Unlike variable interest rate credit cards, if you have opted for a fixed interest rate credit card, generally the rates should not increase very often. If they do, you provider will mail you an advance notice. The notice will give you the option to accept the changes or dispute them. There is a catch, however. If you do not agree with the changes, your credit card provider may ask you to repay the full balance owed to them and also close your account.

    Now, if you have a variable interest rate credit card the story is completely different. With variable interest rate credit cards, your interest rate is tied to a market index — generally, the prime rate. Every time this index changes your rate may go up, often without an advance notice. The terms should disclose how this process works.

    Apart from market forces and company policies, there is one more factor that may cause your credit card interest rate to spike. There are certain trigger points (such as late payments, over-the-limit transactions, and delinquencies) that may cause your interest rate to go up.

    Do your homework

    You will need to understand some basic credit card related terms, such as grace period, APR, billing cycle, and other basic financial terminologies. It would also help if you know what competing credit card companies are offering to individuals within your credit score range.

    Prepare scripts for two layers of calls

    Call your company to initiate the process. Your initial calls [yes, calls] will be answered by the customer service department. You may not achieve much success during this first layer of your efforts. Be prepared for a “No!”

    Don’t give up, though. Politely, but firmly request the customer service representative to transfer your call to a supervisor. This is where your second script will come in handy. Explain to the supervisor that you have always made your payments on time and have otherwise been a good customer. Firmly request that your interest should be lowered. If the supervisor denies, ask for a second layer of escalation.

    Every organization is different and with some companies you may have to go through the hoops until you finally reach an executive who may be able to assist you. Be persistent!

    If the company denies your request, ask for a promotional rate

    Credit card companies float promotional offers periodically. If your negotiation request fails, ask the company to consider you for a promotional program. These short-term promotions could lower your rates for a period of three months to as much as eighteen months. Even a short-term reduction will allow you to pay off a significant portion of your principal balance at a low interest rate.

    Some non-profit organizations could assist you as well

    If you are under financial strain or have suffered a financial emergency (such as a layoff), several non-profit organizations could assist you with the negotiation process. These organizations have substantial experience in working with credit card companies and may be able to empower you with a large pool of resources. Their expertise and experience could make all the difference. Given their size, clout, and legal knowledge, credit card companies may be more receptive to their requests.

    If all else fails

    It is possible that the above steps could fail. If so, you need a backup plan. If your credit is good, the easiest way to get a low APR or 0% APR credit card would be to transfer your balances to a credit card that offers low interest rates for an introductory period. Click here to compare low interest and 0% APR credit cards.

    Joining a credit union or a large association that offers low interest rate credit lines could be a good option as well.

    Let us know if this article has helped you. As always, don’t forget to share this information with your friends.

  • Fixed Interest Credit Cards Demystified

    Interest rates indicate the amount you have to pay for carrying a balance on your credit card account. There are two main types of interest rates as far as credit cards are concerned: fixed and variable. There are several differences between the two. If you wish to get fixed interest credit cards, simply go through this article to help you understand what fixed interest rates are.

    Defining fixed interest credit cards

    Fixed interest credit cards are cards whose interest rates do not change from time to time. However, it does not necessarily mean that it does not change at all. In fact, credit card issuers can adjust fixed interest rates under certain circumstances. Unlike their variable interest rate counterparts, fixed interest credit cards are not dependent on the prime rate. The prime rate is the one, which banks use as the basis on which interest rate is offered to cardholders.

    Factors that cause fixed interest rates to change

    Interest rates, specifically variable ones, change every now and then as the prime rate fluctuates but this is not the case for fixed interest rates. Generally, there are only specific instances when card issuers can make allowable changes on your fixed interest credit cards. This includes failure to pay credit card bill within sixty days, completion of a debt management program, change in underlying interest rate of variable interest, and expiration of a promotional rate. There are other factors that may impact fixed interest rates but overall these are the major factors.

    Notice of fixed rate changes

    At its discretion, the card issuer may raise the interest rate on your fixed interest credit cards. However, the card issuer must send you an advance notice (example 45 days) before the change becomes effective. You will also have the option to opt out of the interest rate increase but you must pay off your outstanding balance on the initial rate you had and close your credit card account with the issuer.

    Advantages of Fixed Interest Credit Cards

    Fixed interest rates  provide you a semblance of security. With fixed interest credit cards, you can regulate your expenses as your rate does not fluctuate and you are informed in advance if your rate changes. For instance, if you initially had an introductory rate and it expires, you will still know what your rate is afterwards. This will eliminate making mere guesses on what rate you have. With this, you can properly budget your finances and ensure that you meet the minimum payment required.

    You may think that you can save more money on advertised lower variable rates and forget that these rates may increase without your knowledge. Personally, I prefer to have fixed rates if paying for the entire bill is not possible, as there are no unpleasant surprises like a sudden increase in finance charges.

    Synopsis

    Whenever payment is involved, especially on fixed interest credit cards, understanding the basics is very crucial. Doing so will allow you to make smarter financial decisions and inculcate better spending habits, which greatly affect your credit rating and your overall expenses as well.

  • How To Get A Credit Card With Bad Credit Rating

    Bad credit rating may be a huge hindrance in successfully acquiring credit cards, especially those with enviable rewards like cash backs, frequent flyer miles, and other forms of reward points. If you do manage to get a credit card with bad credit rating, the interest rates will probably be high. Therefore, it is advisable for you to repair your credit to be eligible for credit cards with rewards and low interest rates. Simply follow the tips given below to get you started in enhancing your credit.

    Hold the applications

    Card issuers always advertise credit cards with tempting rewards and rates that make you want to apply right away. Start applying only when your credit score is relatively better. This will not only improve your chances of getting approved, it will also minimize any temporary point reduction.

    This may seem difficult to do but you have to focus on repairing your credit instead of trying to get a credit card with bad credit rating.

    Gather all the facts

    If you have bad credit, chances are, you have received several rejections on credit card applications, but you should never let it get to you. What you need to do is find out the reasons for your denial and keep a record of it, as it will help you determine what you need to work on (in terms of improving your credit score). In most cases, there are other reasons for disapproval aside from low credit score. Take note of all the reasons and work on them one at a time.

    Besides this, you also have to educate yourself on the basics of credit like the factors affecting your credit score and basis of approval for a credit card. Do a little bit of research to help you understand them. Therefore, if you wish to get a credit card with bad credit rating, you must first equip yourself with sufficient knowledge on credit, as you will have better chances of approval.

    Repair your credit rating

    One quick way to repair credit is by piggybacking on the excellent credit of a friend or family. Just ask one of them to add you as an authorized user of an old credit account but you do not actually have to use the card. If it’s not possible to do this, you can get a small loan from a bank and pay it back in full. This will have a positive effect on your credit as it shows your credit worthiness, thus taking you closer toward your goal of obtaining a credit card with bad credit rating.

    Synopsis

    There are many effective ways to fix your damaged credit and as long as you are determined and disciplined in following the guidelines, you are sure to attain a remarkable credit score. Soon, you will be eligible for better card offers and you will not have difficulties in trying to get a credit card with bad credit rating.

  • Three Ways To Get Low Interest Rate Credit Card

    Nowadays the thought of saving money is imprinted on everyone’s mind, because the cost of living all around the globe is getting higher. Consequently, cardholders are inclined to look for low interest credit cards as a way to reduce finance charge costs. However, for regular individuals, it is tough to find a low interest rate credit card. On the bright side, it is not impossible to obtain such cards for there are still viable options left, like the ones below, which you can consider.

    Join a credit union

    A credit union is a not-for-profit financial institution governed by its members. A credit union’s main purpose is to educate members to be financially responsible. Additionally, it provides certain financial services to members and, more importantly, it offers low interest rates on credit cards.

    The credit union’s not-for-profit status is the reason why credit cards issued by them have lower interest rates as compared to banks. Meaning, they do not have to raise rates, like banks do, just to generate revenue. In fact, there are studies that can vouch for claims that credit unions offer better interest rates. Hence, if you want a low interest rate credit card, join a credit union.

    Seek great deals on card promotions

    If you prefer not to join credit unions, there are other ways to get a low interest rate credit card; one of which is by looking out for introductory low interest rate offers. Many credit card companies, these days, have low introductory rates to attract more applicants. Some even go as low as 0% on their promotional offers. Although less costly, these promotions expire but when it does, you can always do a balance transfer or negotiate for a lower rate. Just watch out for when it terminates so you can plan your next move.

    Build Towards a Good Credit Score

    If the above suggestions still do not persuade you, then build towards a good credit so you can get a low interest rate credit card later on. It may seem like the slowest and hardest route but it absolutely is a sure-fire way to lower your interest. Furthermore, there are less difficult ways to do this, such as getting a credit repair card, which you can use to start building some credit.

    Credit repair cards can assume many forms such as secured cards and prepaid cards. Just bear in mind that the secret to successfully establishing good credit is making regular and prompt payments. When you reach your credit goals, offers for low interest credit cards will be pouring in.

    Synopsis

    There are many means, by which you can get a low interest rate credit card, such as those listed above. Even so, none would work if you remain delinquent on your accounts. It is therefore necessary to be a responsible cardholder because in the end, it is still the best way to go towards your goal.

  • How To Get Low Interest Credit Cards For Good Credit

    Everyone knows that having excellent credit opens up a lot of good opportunities, such as offers for low interest credit cards for good credit. If you have excellent credit, you have probably received numerous credit card offers from different card issuers. However, before you accept such deals, take some time to think about the repercussions of your decision. Here are some helpful tips you should definitely consider.

    Get only what you need

    These days, it is common to have more than one credit card. In fact, most people have different credit cards for various purposes. It is easy to get credit cards when you have high credit scores but that does not mean that you have to get as many as you can. Although credit cards are helpful, having one too many can have adverse effects on your credit standing and your finances as well. Therefore, it is advisable not to go overboard. Instead, get only what you need.

    Typically, one or two credit cards intended for everyday purchases are enough for an average individual. You can have an extra card for emergencies. If you wish to go more than that, you can do so as long as you have enough funds to pay for the extra cards. Another option is to apply for low interest credit cards for good credit to reduce your finance charges. In turn, this can help you manage several credit card accounts.

    Apply for cards one at a time

    Consumer reporting agencies, such as credit bureaus constantly keep track of your credit history including your applications and payment behaviours. Applying for several cards within a short span of time, regardless of the outcome, is detrimental as it raises a [temporary] red flag on your credit report. Aside from this, frequent credit pulls also hurt your credit temporarily and can even drag your credit score a couple of points down. So when offered for low interest credit cards for good credit, go at it one at a time to avoid damage to your credit.

    Maintain your excellent credit

    Having many credit cards is enjoyable but can also be challenging, as you have to sustain each one of them in good standing. Many people find this impossible to do.

    Nevertheless, maintaining a couple of credit cards is a piece of cake when you have the necessary means. If you have good credit, you can easily end up with more credit cards than you actually need, as you will constantly get offers, such as low interest credit cards for good credit. However, see to it that you are prompt on your payments and so you would not end up losing the excellent credit you worked so hard to achieve.

    Synopsis

    Offers for low interest credit cards for good credit are given only to deserving candidates. That is why it pays to build and uphold an outstanding credit because only the responsible ones get great deals like these. As they say, no good deed goes unrewarded.

  • Sizing Up Credit Cards For Not So Good Credit

    In this day and age, bad credit scores is nothing out of the ordinary. If you have bad credit, you will probably have a hard time getting a credit card as issuers have raised approval standards. However, this is not a reason to fret because credit card issuers have created credit cards for not so good credit to give you a second chance with building an outstanding credit.

    Secured credit cards

    Credit cards of this type require a security deposit prior to its release. Usually, cash is the preferred form but you can also pledge anything that has high monetary value. Such security deposited will be the basis of your credit limit, which is typically equal to the amount deposited or the monetary equivalent of the property involved. You can also raise this limit by increasing your security deposit. In some instances, the issuer will reward you with a higher credit limit provided that you pay your bills promptly.

    Credit cards for not so good credit — secured credit cards — are available online. They could help if you are in the process of building credit or trying to repair it.

    Regular or unsecured credit cards

    Despite having bad credit, you can still qualify for a regular credit card but with higher interest rates and fees. Although this may seem unattractive, it actually helps you in a way because you will be obligated to pay the total amount due, thus, avoiding debt. Aside from this, your initial credit limit may also be lower than those who have excellent credit but it will gradually increase depending on your payment performance. This may seem like a downside at first, but then again, it can help you improve your spending habits and consequently enhance your credit.

    So when looking for credit cards for not so good credit, do not dismiss regular credit cards for its higher rates and lower limits. Instead, use these restrictions as tools for improving your overall credit standing.

    Store credit cards and gas credit cards

    Store cards and gas cards are perfect for establishing credit and repairing damaged credit as well. The beauty of having these card types is that you can use them for your everyday needs, such as food and gas. The only drawback is that these cards are made specifically for certain establishments, thus, limiting their usage. In spite of this, store cards and gas cards are still great credit cards for not so good credit because they are available online, subject to qualifications criteria listed in their terms.

    Synopsis

    Despite the horrors of having bad credit, you can still find a silver lining in the form of credit cards for not so good credit. These credit cards may not compare to the other types, but in reality, they act as a mechanism to help you toward your goal of improving your credit score.

  • Key Points To Consider When You Compare Credit Card Interest Rates

    Credit card issuers differ in interest rate offers due to a number of reasons. Some interest rates are based on current financial market and some on your financial standing. Knowing each issuer’s interest rate is important as it will help you determine which one is better. In this connection, it is vital that you know what to look at when you compare credit card interest rates to come up with an accurate and comprehensive assessment.

    Variable vs. Fixed Interest Rate

    When you compare credit card interest rates, the first thing you should do is determine whether it is fixed or variable. Fixed interest rates, as the name suggests, stays the same regardless of market fluctuations — in that, it is not tied to any market denominator. However, it is not absolutely stable as certain circumstances, such as market conditions, may cause it to change. In this scenario, the card issuer sends you a notice of such change before it takes effect.

    Variable interest rate, on the other hand, changes ever so often because it is dependent on the prime rate, which also fluctuates periodically. In contrast to fixed interest rates, card issuers do not give you prior notice when variable rates fluctuate and change.

    Different types of interest rates

    People use credit cards for various purposes and it is for this reason that most issuers give specific interest rates for each type of transaction. For instance, an issuer may give an interest rate specifically for purchases, another for cash advances, and one applicable only for balance transfers.

    Sometimes, you get a credit card thinking that you have a low interest rate, and suddenly be surprised to see other higher interest rates involved. Usually, this thing happens when you do different transactions with your card, so it is important not to get confused on transaction rates. Therefore, when you compare credit card interest rates, make sure to get all applicable interest rates and not just the one that applies to a specific kind of transaction.

    Promotional interest rate

    Credit card companies offer introductory rates to draw more customers. These introductory rates are usually lower than regular rates and some even go as low as 0%. You can even avail of these promotions despite having bad credit. However, these rates are not permanent and usually last only for a couple of months. Therefore, when you compare credit card interest rates, verify if the rate offered to you is an introductory rate, as it will surely have an expiration date. If it is, remember to check when it expires and what your rate is going to be after which.

    Synopsis

    When shopping around for the best credit card, it is customary for you to compare credit card interest rates. Nevertheless, simply asking for the rates and jotting it down does not really give you a clear  representation of how much the card is going to cost you. That is why the best thing to do is to study the interest rates meticulously and get as much information as you can get.