Debt Consolidation Credit Counseling In Phoenix

In today's society, it's so easy to get access to credit; and because of this, consumers are drowning in debt up to their necks. Being $20,000 in debt is typical in today's society!

As the pressures of mountainous consumer debt become an issue for more and more people, the demand for legitimate and proven ways to rebuild your credit history is on the rise. The word "budget" conjures up extreme images of depriving oneself of the foods one likes or more extreme visions of starving oneself pop up. However, a proven formula for debt management and the rebuilding of personal credit and credit scores using a specific type of credit card dispels such visions.

For some consumers, these types of credit cards may be the main solution, because they are very effective, and some consumers aren't able to get a traditional credit card, or even open a bank account. This day and age, most households have both parents working, so that there are two incomes supporting the family, which of course means there's slim to no time for creating budgets or researching solutions for maintaining a higher credit score.

In order to get on the path to financial success, you must make your first step! Why don't we take the first step and weigh both the secured and pre-paid credit cards, and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

1. Secured Credit Cards

Positives- Getting a secure credit card account is highly affordable and easy way to start you on the path to building your credit. Secured credit cards assist in improving and rebuilding bad credit. This type of card acts just like a regular credit card.

Negatives- The biggest setback for most people with the secure credit card, is that you have to deposit about $200-$275 in order to "secure" the account when you sign up. For most, this is a lot to ask. These cards also have a tendency to have additional fees (i.e. annual fees) and much higher interest rates (approximately 15% or greater). Even though these may seem like a lot, this card is probably the best choice for rebuilding credit.

2. Pre-Paid Credit Cards

Advantages- Pre-Paid Credit Cards are a very useful tool, because they give you all of the flexibility and freedom of using your own money. They look, feel, and spend just like a real credit card; they can be used in any occasion that you would use a regular credit card. With these cards, you determine how much money you would like in the account by "loading" money, instead of the company offering you a credit limit based on your financial history. Almost everyone can be approved for this type of card, and yes....even if you've had a bad credit past.

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.

You might also consider that Pre-paid cards cannot be used in all situations. For example: hotels and car rental agencies may not allow you to use a pre-paid credit card to secure your rentals. It's always a good idea to call ahead first and ask each company their policy before entering into any transaction.

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