If you are a frequent traveler, it would be to your advantage to enroll in a credit card that are co-branded, or those cards that has tie-ups with travel-related companies, like the Southwest airline credit card.

Southwest airlines have teamed up with Chase.com to give you more benefits. To date, two popular credit cards are in existence. These cards are also popularly known as Southwest Airlines rapid rewards Visa cards. One of these two, the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Visa Signature Card is designed for personal use while the other is for business use. This is an added bonus for you as a frequent traveler. Both kinds of credit cards are designed to give you a roundtrip award faster.

You can earn reward points using your Southwest airline credit cards in two ways. One is through the rapid reward credits and the rapid reward dollars. In the rapid reward credits, customers can get a much higher reward denomination compared to the reward dollars.

You may ask how can you as a frequent traveler earn the points and redeem it on you Southwest airline credit cards. The answer is simple. You can get the bonus reward credits after your first purchase using your airline credit card. The good news is your purchases need not be Southwest airlines products or services. You can purchase anything using your credit cards from Southwest and earn points for it.

For any purchases or expenditures you make using your Southwest airline credit cards, you get corresponding points. When you use your card to purchase Southwest airline products and services, like airline tickets, you get additional reward dollars.

This means that you earn more reward dollars when you use the card to purchase Southwest airline products or services as compared when you use your card to purchase some other products.

The credit card allows you to earn more points as you make more purchases, and the more points you earn, the more reward dollars you will have. This will push you up and move you closer towards getting a round trip award. The roundtrip awards are generally based on rapid reward credits but you can convert the reward dollars you earn on the credit card into rapid reward credits. You can also convert your rapid reward credits into a roundtrip award.

There is another way to earn rapid rewards credit on your credit card and this is through balance transfers. For frequent travelers, this is the best option since you will be using the airline services more than any other service. Earning more points and rapid rewards is not hard either because Southwest airlines flights are available in most places of destinations.

The airline’s network is widespread, providing you with easy access to use your Southwest Airline credit cards and earn rewards. With this kind of card, you not only get to travel with convenience but you also get to enjoy countless benefits from your travels.

Southwest Credit Card

Gorgeous Country Road Tri Fold Wallet Glamorous and sparkly rhinestones Horshoe designed loop at the opening button As you can see in the photo, it has several slots about 15 for all your needs Removable Checkbook holder along with chickbook size slots for checkbooks, slots for drivers license, credit cards etc.. Trifold with snap button opener, measures 7.5″/4.5″

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Credit card offers aren’t exactly a rare occurence. In fact, many people are bombarded by multiple credit card offers each and every day. The question is, how do you know which credit card offers are the good ones and which ones should be thrown in the trash (after being shredded of course)? Follow these seven bits of advice.

1. What Does “Pre-Qualified” Really Mean?

First things first — when you get those credit card offers in the mail that say you’re “pre-qualified,” it does not mean that you’ve been approved for the credit card that is being offered. You still have to apply for the card (and have your credit history run) before you’ll actually be approved.

Many people have gotten frustrated because they respond to a “pre-qualified” offer only to find out they’re not really approved.

Don’t take it personally. “Pre-qualified” credit card offers are nothing more than a marketing gimmick.

2. The Razzle, The Dazzle and Then The Punch

When you see credit card offers touting very low interest rates (or even no interest at all), try to remember that these are “teaser” rates that will eventually go up (and may go up drastically). The credit card offer may still be a good deal, but that all really depends on what the interest goes up to after the introductory period.

Before jumping to apply for a low-interest credit card offer, see what the interest rate is really going to be after the introductory period is over.

3. Keep The Perks In Perspective

Many credit card offers include perks such as points or cash back that can be earned with each purchase. Remember, these perks may not be as great as they first appear.

A credit card with rewards attached also usually has a higher interest rate attached as well. If you carry a high balance on your credit cards, those perks are going to cost you big time.

4. It’s Not About the Prize

Some of the credit card offers we receive don’t even come by mail — they come during checkout at the local store. Oftentimes, these credit card offers have a one-time discount attached, such as 10 to 15 percent off your total purchase if you apply on the spot (and approval is instant as well).

If you think it’s a good idea to open a credit card to get the discount and then close the account afterwards, that’s really not such a great concept. A part of your credit score is determined by how long you keep relationships with your creditors. If you have a history of opening accounts and then quickly closing them, it’s going to impact your creditworthiness in the eyes of lenders.

5. What You Shouldn’t Settle For

The credit card industry is definitely competitive. Because of this, you should never respond to credit card offers that require an annual fee or a “processing” fee (unless you have problems with your credit history).

If a credit card company requires an annual fee or charges you for processing your application, go elsewhere for your credit card needs. There are a number of credit card companies who will welcome your business (and won’t make you pay extra for the privilege).

6. Seek Them Out

If you’re not happy with the credit card offers you’re being solicited with, it doesn’t mean there isn’t a credit card out there to meet your needs. You may just need to look a little harder.

There are hundreds of different credit cards available and finding the one that is right for you may just be a matter of doing a little online research. Many consumers turn to the web to find the credit card offers that are perfect for them.

7. Seek and Destroy

After you have reviewed a credit card offer, what do you do with it? I’ll tell you what you should be doing.

Make sure you shred each of the credit card offers you receive before throwing them in the trash or you may find yourself becoming the next victim of identity theft.

Those credit card offers that infest your mailbox are also an identity theft criminal’s best friend. If you don’t want those credit card offers falling into the wrong hands, make sure you dispose of them properly.

By taking the above advice into consideration when dealing with credit card offers, not only will you be able to find the credit card that’s right for you, but you’ll also be able to avoid making a mistake due to credit card confusion.

Credit cards offering a 0% interest rate often lure consumers in with zero interest, instant approval and easy online balance transfers, but beware of the number one factor that will void your 0% easy street annual percentage rate and throw you out into the poor house fast.

Banks and financial institutions know the spending habits of consumers and understand that most people max out their credit cards around the holidays. They wisely take advantage of this fact and start flooding your inbox and snail-mail box with hundreds of 0 APR credit card offers soon after the holiday season ends. Knowing that if you are like 98% of the American public, you’ll jump at the chance to consolidate credit card debt and transfer balances to 0 APR credit cards.

But don’t fill out that online credit card application too fast, there are a couple of money saving details you need to be aware of before you apply and transfer your balances over to 0 APR credit cards.

Credit card companies are banking on the fact that you will never read the fine print at the bottom of the 0 APR credit cards terms of service agreement. There are two very important details down there that need to be brought to your attention before you sign on the dotted line.

Most importantly is the fact that if you make just one payment late your introductory 0% APR is revoked and you’ll automatically be required to pay the full annual percentage rate. Credit card companies are banking of the fact that you never know this fact till its too late, so please read the fine print before accepting any 0% APR balance transfer credit card offers.

The second detail is that could either help you out of credit card debt or sink you even deeper into debt is the fact that the 0% APR is only an introductory offer by the credit card company. It applies for a short, limited time only, then interest rates on your credit card goes up to the usual high rate.

The amount of time the company offers the low 0 APR credit card varies from 6 months to as much as 18 to 24 months in some cases. You need to read your agreement carefully to see what the annual percentage rate will be on your 0 APR credit card after the introductory rate expires before you sign the credit card application.

It is imperative that the 0 APR credit cards regular percentage rate is at least 3 points lower than the annual percentage rate you are currently paying, if its not, you may want to consider consolidating credit card debt by some other method. It simply won’t make sense for you to transfer you balances over to 0 APR credit cards if the interest rate is going to be jacked up higher than the rate you are already paying.

0 Interest Credit Card

JSB Morse, in the follow up to the popular How to Take Advantage of the People Who Are Trying to Take Advantage of You, focuses on one of the most profitable techniques of the series: credit arbitrage. Credit arbitrage is the method of taking advantage in the disparities between interest rates in the marketplace. Consumers can utilize low-interest debt to actually earn money-this book will show you how. Morse takes a simple, three-step approach to converting credit cards from an expense into a moneymaking tool. Complete with charts and detailed instruction, this manual will help you start raking in the dough with as much effort as it takes to apply for a credit card. Learn techniques on how to acquire 0% interest credit cards or get lower rates on your current credit cards; invest in any number of ways based on personal levels of risk-acceptance with that money; and maintain your accounts to maximize your profits. Morse has made it easy to start taking advantage of the people who are trying to take advantage of you; now all you need to do is start making money for nothing through credit arbitrage!

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16 of 17 people found the following review helpful.
Succinct Instructions on How to Make Free Money
By Sandy Winnich
Morse elaborates on his “Take Advantage” techniques with this informative book. The crux is making money on 0% debt that credit cards offer you by investing it in risk-free high-yield money markets or riskier stocks. The author is entertaining, but he also gives up the goods- good advice accompanied with helpful charts and worksheets.

See all 6 customer reviews…

Several account holders discover that the best credit card balance transfer will give them 0 interest rate for a whole year. In some instances, consumers can get as much as sixteen months with a zero interest rate. Just like any financial tool, it is advisable to plan what you can do as you take the appropriate measures to eliminate your expenses.

At the end of the introductory period that gave you no interest rates, the account holder can be exposed to a retroactive interest rate going back to the opening date the account was opened for any unpaid account balance that remains. The annual percentage rate could in some cases be more expensive than what you are at present repaying with your present card.

Consequently, as you query for the best credit card balance transfer choices you need to have every intention of paying off the account balance of your bank card. Should you be looking for just a short lived solution, there might be superior strategies that you should consider.

You’ll find many banks that have great deals regarding their transfers. Nearly all are regarded as major players in the realm of bank cards We’ll look at these quickly to ascertain which ones boasts the best credit card balance transfer interest rates.

Capital One Cards

Featuring a 0 APR that can last for fifteen months, the Capital One Platinum Card supplies consumers a generous personal credit line as high as 10 grand that will in their balance transfer needs. After the promotion offer cardholders will face an 12.9% annual percentage rate on the bank card.

Citibank Cards

Yet another no annual percentage rate. These offers can last for as long as a year and a half and can enable a account holder to repay up to $15,000 based on their FICO score. By the end of the introductory period users will now have an interest rate of 11.49 – 19.99%.

Potential customers who are looking for the most beneficial rates they can find ought to know their credit ratings beforehand. Many financial institutions will only grant good intro percentage rates to the clients that possess an excellent credit history. Before you decide to endeavor to submit an application take some time to check your current credit ranking.

Remember as you focus on the best credit card balance transfer selections you have, you should make an effort to obtain the cards having the longest percent intro period, and make an effort pay back the card in that period of time.

As reality reveals, not every internet user has his own credit or debit card. Hence, many of them are not able to enjoy the convenience of transacting online. Another important consideration is that, many credit card users are afraid that their card information will be compromised.

With these problems, business developers were able to come up with a solution that is beneficial for everyone: a Virtual Credit Card.

What is a Virtual Credit Card (VCC)?

A VCC is a pre-loaded, in some cases re-loadable, card account that works in replacement of a debit card. It is like having a real debit card account without having the physical card. With a VCC, you can have peace of mind while shopping or transacting online. It doesn’t require you to reveal your personal information because you can use it with any name and address. Fast, convenient and secure. Plus, VCCs can be used anywhere in the world where major credit cards are accepted. There may be some country restrictions so some merchants may block the transaction because of user’s IP address but you can overcome this issue by using a socks or a proxy server.

Virtual credit cards will provide you with a peace of mind while shopping or transacting online.

Who can use a VCC?

Anyone from around the world can purchase and own a virtual credit card. It can be any person who wants to make payments and transactions online but prefers not to expose his or her own debit card information or it could simply be someone who doesn’t have a debit card at all. Usually, merchants do not require any ID when you purchase a virtual credit card. Virtual card details are provided instantly after you make a payment. Clients are responsible for any illegal use of these cards. Payments can usually be made through popular e-currency payment systems such as Liberty Reserve or Webmoney. Some merchants will accept PayPal, Moneybookers, AlertPay etc. Among regular payment options there could also be WU/MG or Bank Wire.

What information is provided after the payment?

After the payment, you will receive the following information:

1. VCC type (Visa, MasterCard)

2. VCC number

3. CVC / CVC2 number (also known as verification code)

4. An expiry date

The most popular VCC among internet users is Visa Virtual. The majority of VCCs out there are issued by Visa but you may see some MasterCard virtual cards as well. Cards are usually delivered instantly after a successful payment by Liberty Reserve or Webmoney. Payment options such as WU/MG or Bank Wire require a merchant to receive funds first before revealing virtual card details.

Where could one use a VCC?

Virtual credit cards can be used for online purchases and transactions on any online merchant, distributor, business websites, or in short, anywhere credit cards are accepted. Some are also used to verify PayPal and other similar payment accounts. Even though VCCs do not require you to reveal your true personal information, a valid address must be provided for online orders that require physical delivery.

Virtual Credit Cards

With Intuit GoPayment and the mophie marketplace complete credit card solution, you have everything you need to securely process credit card payments on your iPhone 3G and 3GS.

With Intuit GoPayment and the mophie Marketplace credit card reader, you have everything you need to securely process credit card payments on your iPhone. It’s simple to get started. Get started in as few as 15 minutes, and begin accepting all major credit cards on your iPhone so you can get paid on the spot.

Compatible with iPhone 3G/3GS models.

Process any major credit card by entering card information directly into your iPhone with the swipe of a card.

With Intuit GoPayment and the mophie Marketplace, you have everything you need to securely process credit card payments (see larger image).

GoPayment Rates and Services Monthly Service: $12.95 Swipe Rate: 1.7%1 Keyed Rate: 2.7%1 Transaction Fee: 30¢1 Set-up Fees: NONE Cancellation Fee: NONE Monthly Minimum: NONE

This Complete Credit Card Solution is perfect for small business owners who do business away from their office like plumbers, contractors, photographers and retailers who attend art festivals. Intuit already provides payment processing service to over 250,000 small businesses and processes in excess of $100B in transactions per year.

Offering an innovative, lightweight design complete with a soft-touch finish, the mophie Marketplace fits well in your hand and protects your iPhone from bumps and scratches. You can even charge and sync your iPhone with iTunes without removing the mophie marketplace case with the pass-through micro-USB port. It’s compatible with the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS models (iPhone not included).

The Complete Credit Card Solution

• Quick Transactions: Ability to process a credit card payment in three easy steps virtually anywhere, digital signatures, and e-mail or text message receipts makes the Complete Credit Card Solution the ultimate solution for mobile payment transactions.
• Complete Mobile Payment Solution: Quick and easy transactions on-the-go. Process any major credit card on your iPhone with the swipe of a card.
• Fully Protected: The marketplace Complete Credit Card Solution has a protective form-fitting, light-weight, low-profile design complete with a soft-touch finish.
• Works with QuickBooks: Sync your account information and payment data with Intuit QuickBooks² without removing the marketplace from your iPhone by using the included USB cable.

Getting Started Is Easy

Download the free Intuit GoPayment app and enjoy low merchant service rates with no set-up fees, no monthly minimums and no cancellation fees.

Set up your merchant account today by applying from the GoPayment app, by phone, or online at mophie.Intuit.com.

Begin accepting all major credit cards and manage you GoPayment account 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with your free Intuit Merchant Service Center.⁴

Get Paid in 3 Easy Steps with GoPayment

1. Open the GoPayment App and log in to your account
2. Swipe or manually enter credit card information
3. Enter amount to be charged, scan card and have the customer sign with their finger. It is that easy.

Digital signatures, e-mail or text message receipts, and the ability to take payment virtually anywhere (see larger image).

Safe Transactions, Easy Receipts

Be sure to let your customers know that their information is safe and secure. All transactions are immediately encrypted and no cardholder information is stored on the iPhone. You also have the option to send your customers receipts via text message or e-mail in addition to being able to track item sales and sync payment data with Intuit QuickBooks.²

What’s in the Box

mophie Marketplace, USB cable, operating instructions

Terms and Conditions

1. Rate of 1.7% charged on all Visa and MasterCard Qualified transactions electronically authorized with credit card reader. Manually keyed transactions with AVS charged 2.7% Key-Entered Rate. Business and foreign cards, or transactions not meeting the above are charged 3.7% Non-Qual Rate. Per-Authorization fees of $0.34 charged for Non-Qual transactions. Different rates for American Express, Discover, Diners Club and JCB may apply. Additional transaction fees may apply. Call (888) 556-4850 or see mophie.Intuit.com for current information.

2. Optional feature to sync date available in supported versions of QuickBooks Pro and Premier 2009 or later. Sold separately.

3. During regular business hours Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 7 a.m. to 3 P.m. PST.

4. Subject to occasional downtime due to systems and service maintenance.

There are many situations which will bring up the need for immediate money. If you have the need which can not be post phoned, it will be then that you look for instant approval of your credit card. One of the best places to find such applications which will be approved instantly is the internet. You will have to fill up the form which will be approved in a few minutes. A mail will be sent to you informing you about the status of the approval.

If your application is approved, then it will take 15 days for the credit card to reach you. There is one important thing that you have to keep in mind while applying for instant approval; your credit score should be good. If your credit score is good then it would be easy for you to get the card. And also, the fee which is charged will be relatively less. If you have a bad credit score, they would give a secured card which is based on the collateral deposit that you make. Even if a bank agrees to give an unsecured card then, be prepared to give a huge sum of fees in return.

However, people tend to forget to check a few things as they are in a hurry to get the card. Make sure that you are aware of the fee amount that they charge annually. Some companies charge a high fee. There are also companies which charge less so these are the companies that you have to choose. Apply for credit card instant approval only if you are in dire necessity. If you do it even without the need, it would have a bad impact on your credit score. You may not get it when you are actually in need of it.

Apply For Credit Card Instant Approval

 “This book is a must-read for credit card holders of all ages. Curtis Arnold offers insights into how consumers can not only profit financially from credit cards, but importantly, how to avoid falling into debt.”

—Thomas R. Evans, President and CEO of BankRate.com, Inc.

 

“Finally, someone has written a guide for savvy consumers who want to make the most of the plastic in their wallets. Curtis Arnold explains exactly how to maximize your rewards so you’re quite literally getting free money and also outlines winning strategies for negotiating the lowest interest rate and using balance transfers to your advantage. Anyone who wants to build credit, improve their credit, or profit from their credit cards should read this book.”

—Liz Pulliam Weston, MSN Money Personal Finance Columnist and Bestselling Author of Your Credit Score and Easy Money

 

“Curtis Arnold is America’s premier credit card expert. Whether you’re trying to get your first card, compare credit offers, or figure out how to beat the credit card companies at their own game, Arnold’s wisdom and insider tips will prove invaluable.”

—Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The “Money Coach” and Author of The New York Times Bestseller Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom

 

“If you have had enough of credit card tricks and traps, this book will show you how to turn the tables. Curtis Arnold knows the credit card business inside and out and offers proven ways to put plastic to work for you, rather than against you.”

—Gerri Detweiler, Consumer Advocate and Author of four books on personal finance including the forthcoming book Stop Debt Collectors

 

“For most Americans, credit cards are seen as a necessary evil. Curtis Arnold transforms that perception. Using his advice, people can get rebates, perks, better interest rates, and all kinds of benefits from their cards that they never knew were possible. This book helps you become the master of your credit cards instead of a victim.”

—Jordan E. Goodman, “America’s Money Answers Man” and Bestselling Author of Everyone’s Money Book on Credit

 

“Curtis Arnold provides you with tips for protecting yourself from costly credit card traps, how to use credit to your advantage, and much more. This is a must-read book!”

—Marcia Brixey, Author of The Money Therapist and Founder and President of Money Wise Women Educational Services

 

Banks spend billions to entice credit card customers with rebates, freebies, low introductory rate offers, and airline miles. This book shows you how to take maximum advantage of these special deals—without paying for them through brutally high interest rates, fees, and penalties!

 

Top independent credit card expert Curtis Arnold reveals how to creatively finance major purchases such as cars, weddings, and condos with little or no interest charges…earn huge credit card “perks” every year…and dramatically reduce your cost of credit. He offers specific advice targeted to: young consumers, retirees facing credit discrimination, Americans recovering from debt problems, and even to consumers with spotless credit.

 

Why should huge banks and credit card companies make all the money? Get this book, and you too can start earning and saving hundreds, and possibly thousands of dollars, like Curtis has!

• Unlock the keys to huge credit card savings
  Find the best rates and balance transfer offers—and make the most of them
• Fly anywhere, finance anything
  Use credit cards to get free airline tickets and cash rebates or low-cost “creative financing”
• Don’t get ripped off—by your bank or anyone else
  Avoid hidden fees, costly small print, and flat-out fraud
• Slash your debt, and cut your cost of credit
  Stop throwing away money you could be saving or investing

Acknowledgments xvii

About the Author xxi

 

Chapter 1: It’s Not Just Plastic–It’s Money! 1

Chapter 2: Show Me the Money! Credit Card Rebates 23

Chapter 3: Unlock the Key to Huge Savings: Master Credit Card Rates and Transfer Offers 51

Chapter 4: Avoid Problems That Hinder Maximum Profits 75

Chapter 5: How to Slash Your Debt and Keep Your Hard-Earned Money for Yourself 89

Chapter 6: Watch Out: Traps and Scams Can Cost You Big Bucks! 119

Chapter 7: Start Out on the Right Foot–Credit Cards for Students and Saving for College 155

Chapter 8: Use Targeted Cards to Your Financial Advantage 179

Chapter 9: Your Credit Report and Score: The Better You Look, the More You Profit 209

Chapter 10: Maximize the Benefits of Your Cards by Taking Advantage of Additional Free Perks 237

Chapter 11: Master Advanced Card Techniques to Save and Make Money 259

Chapter 12: Capitalize on Future Card Trends 283

 

Glossary 301

Index 315

 

 

About the Author

Curtis E. Arnold, a well-known consumer educator and advocate, is the founder of CardRatings.com, an award-winning website that has been providing objective, current information about credit cards free of charge since 1998. His website has made it easy for millions of cardholders to find more attractive credit cards and lower their card debt.

 

Some 1,000 unique credit card offerings are rated by both experts and cardholders on CardRatings.com, and new reviews are added daily. Cards are categorized for people with no credit or poor, fair, good, or excellent credit–and by whether they offer a low-interest rate, cash back, miles, or other rewards. CardRatings.com also provides a free forum (containing over 115,000 posts)–where Curtis interacts regularly with participants–to discuss credit issues such as sharing ideas on how to make the most of credit cards, get out of debt, and solve credit issues. Sharing detailed information with consumers has three important additional benefits from Curtis’s point of view: It encourages stronger competition among card issuers, helps create a more consumer-friendly credit card industry, and keeps CardRatings.com in touch with the needs of cardholders.

 

Curtis knows firsthand the devastating effects of credit card debt. By the time he was finished with his graduate studies at the University of Texas at Dallas, his credit card debt reached $45,000. The stress it created in his life was “unbelievable,” as Curtis puts it, and has a lot to do with why he wrote this book. His goal is to spare you the experience of what he went through and to show you the best ways to benefit from your credit cards.

 

Over the years, Curtis and CardRatings.com have received an enormous amount of national publicity and praise, thanks to interviews Curtis has given to The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, Money Magazine, NPR (National Public Radio), CNN, ABC News Radio, AARP, Dow Jones Newswire, Bottom Line/Personal, PBS, SmartMoney Magazine, Reader’s Digest, MSN Money, MSNBC TV, The Associated Press, CNBC, TIME Magazine, and more.

 

Since its founding, Curtis has expanded CardRatings. com’s role and online offerings. For example, the site now provides all the data (card terms and conditions) for the credit card and ATM/debit survey published by the New York State Banking Department, the oldest bank regulatory agency in the nation. The site also includes credit card news and advice on everything from getting a line of credit to getting a copy of your credit report to getting a better rate or rebate. It’s also a good place to turn if you’re looking for business or student cards.

 

Arkansas Business, a weekly journal, selected Curtis as a “Top 40 Under 40” business leader in 2005, recognizing him as an intriguing business and political leader who bears watching. He was selected as a National Council of La Raza panelist in 2006 to discuss Hispanic credit card issues, and he was a guest speaker in 2007 at The Responsible Credit Roundtable, which provides a forum for leaders of the credit card industry and nonprofit organizations to devise, test, and implement ways to improve communication and account practices to build value for both companies and customers.

 

Curtis has a particular passion for educating students about credit. He serves on the Advisory Board for the Center for Consumer Financial Services at Rochester Institute of Technology, which provides national leadership and research on student credit issues. Curtis also regularly speaks on college campuses about the ins and outs of credit. Finally, he currently serves as co-chair of the Arkansas chapter of the Jump$tart Coalition for Financial Literacy, which seeks to educate students about personal finance issues.

 

Curtis participates in other consumer advocacy groups with various missions. For example, he contributes on a weekly basis to CreditBloggers.com, a blog where leading financial experts discuss credit, loan, debt, and identity theft topics. Curtis is also a member of Arkansans Against Abusive Payday Lending, a coalition of Arkansans dedicated to combating abusive payday-lending practices. Finally, he’s a member of the Financial Literacy Education Consortium, a community of professionals concerned with “best practices” in the delivery of financial education to their constituents.

 

Before founding CardRatings.com, Curtis worked in various capacities in the financial industry, for example, at Advancial Federal Credit Union, Regions Bank, and Metropolitan National Bank. In addition, Curtis gained some valuable “eBusiness” experience by working for Intelemedia Communications in the high-tech corridor of North Dallas.

 

Curtis enjoys being involved in community organizations in the Little Rock area, where he has served on the Board of Directors for Arkansas Festival Ballet. He has been a member of Toastmaster’s International, the West Little Rock Rotary Club, Techpreneur, a nonprofit organization that encourages technological entrepreneurship, and the Little Rock Bop Club. Curtis is also an active member of The Summit Church in North Little Rock.

 

Last but not least, Curtis cherishes his family life. His wife Nancy serves as the accounting supervisor for CardRatings.com. Curtis and Nancy currently reside in North Little Rock, Arkansas with their five children– Dallas, Erin, Hunter, Avery, and Claire.

 

Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.

Praise for How You Can Profit from Credit Cards

Finally, someone has written a guide for savvy consumers who want to make the most of the plastic in their wallets. Curtis Arnold explains exactly how to maximize your rewards so you’re quite literally getting free money and also outlines winning strategies for negotiating the lowest interest rate and using balance transfers to your advantage. Anyone who wants to build credit, improve their credit, or profit from their credit cards should read this book.

—Liz Pulliam Weston
MSN Money Personal Finance Columnist and Bestselling Author of Your Credit Score and Easy Money

Curtis Arnold is America’s premier credit card expert. Whether you’re trying to get your first card, compare credit offers, or figure out how to beat the credit card companies at their own game, Arnold’s wisdom and insider tips will prove invaluable.

—Lynnette Khalfani-Cox
The “Money Coach” and Author of The New York Times Bestseller Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom

If you have had enough of credit card tricks and traps, this book will show you how to turn the tables. Curtis Arnold knows the credit card business inside and out and offers proven ways to put plastic to work for you, rather than against you.

—Gerri Detweiler
Consumer Advocate and Author of four books on personal finance including the forthcoming book Stop Debt Collectors

For most Americans, credit cards are seen as a necessary evil. Curtis Arnold transforms that perception. Using his advice, people can get rebates, perks, better interest rates, and all kinds of benefits from their cards that they never knew were possible. This book helps you become the master of your credit cards instead of a victim.

—Jordan E. Goodman
“America’s Money Answers Man” and Bestselling Author of Everyone’s Money Book on Credit

Curtis Arnold provides you with tips for protecting yourself from costly credit card traps, how to use credit to your advantage, and much more. This is a must-read book!

—Marcia Brixey
Author of The Money Therapist and Founder and President of Money Wise Women Educational Services

Curtis Arnold’s new book is loaded with great information, including some intuitive tips about how consumers can actually use credit and credit cards to benefit themselves financially instead of just benefiting the credit card companies. This is a most insightful book.

—John Ulzheimer
President of Consumer Education for Credit.com “Credit Caoch” contributor on CNBC’s The Millionaire Inside and Author of “You’re Nothing but a Number; Why achieving great credit scores should be on your list of wealth building strategies“

Credit cards can be a valuable money tool when used correctly, and Curtis Arnold tells you how. From enhanced consumer protections to lucrative rewards, “How You Can Profit From Credit Cards” reveals secrets of the credit card industry that can benefit you instead of the bank. This book makes you an expert not only about credit cards, but many of the credit issues in your life. And it blows the cover off some dirty tricks by card issuers. When it comes to paying with plastic, Arnold knows his stuff.

—Gregory Karp
Award-winning syndicated personal finance columnist and Author of Living Rich by Spending Smart: How to Get More of What You Really Want.

© Copyright Pearson Education. All rights reserved.

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Most helpful customer reviews

19 of 21 people found the following review helpful.
Must read for those interested in all aspects of the credit world
By William Lund
Being an avid reader and contributor of the forums for a couple years at cardratings.com I had to purchase the book and was pleased with the great material found within. It took the best of what I’ve learned and explains it all in a well organized manner. I point family and friends to it now, cause it explains it all much better than I can. With the help of the forums I overcome a $12000 credit debt in 2 years and over the time built a score close to 800. I enjoy having my cards earn me money instead of having debt and having the upper hand now that I know how the credit world works.

7 of 8 people found the following review helpful.
A Review From Curtis Arnold’s PR Assistant
By C. Arnold
Curtis has written a very relevant, timely message to an audience that needed this many moons ago. I have struggled with my finances in my college days like most students, and have found myself asking, “Where would I be today if I had this book in college?” Curtis has written this book as a tool for any and every consumer, but specifically the student credit chapters need to be plugged in to every university in America. It’s information would prevent the next generation from experiencing what we are going through today. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to see the next generation succeed financially!

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What is the best credit card processing company, and what qualities and services determine what is the best credit card processing company. If you are a business in search of a merchant account provider in order to begin accepting card payments you must know some of the basics of what is available and what makes the best.

If you are a small business with a physical location, you will be in need of what is referred to as a point of sale terminal. POS terminals are the small devices that you see in restaurants and businesses that allow for the reading of credit cards when they are swiped, your processing company will need to provide various terminal options to fit your unique business needs, and they usually provide leasing or purchase opportunities for your terminal. If you are service trade shows or other mobile events you might want to consider wireless processing terminals.

The next feature of the best credit card processing companies after a means of accepting payment is the companies service and support rating. Payment processing and gateway setup can be a pain for your online business, especially if your webmaster is nowhere to be found. Thorough tech support and service support is essential for the proper setup and maintenance of your transaction processing service and the best companies offer thorough help and fast responses to your inquiries.

If you are currently a small business, you may not be using all of the features your payment processing company has to offer. This may be fine for now, but in the future you might be ready to expand and grow, perhaps opening an online storefront with transaction capabilities, or need to expand with additional store locations. The best credit card processing companies have features that allow your service to grow as your business grows, such as shopping cart integration, online customer service, and multiple location capabilities.

Finally and most importantly, the best credit card processing companies keep their contracts short and the fees and charges to a minimum. I am not against these companies making a profit, by no means, but the best companies realize that your success is their continued success, and burdening you with transaction fees and hidden charges does not keep you in business.

Providing value to you the business owner should be the primary goal of the best credit card processing companies, and if their service should enable your business, increasing customer satisfaction and purchases, and not stand in your way. Finding the best payment processing company is like finding a partner who has the best interests of your business in mind, and anything less than that is unacceptable.

Searching for the cheapest credit card rates online is a complex business with many credit card suppliers offering different deals depending on your circumstances. The cheapest credit card rates will differ if you are looking for credit cards for new businesses or are wondering how to transfer credit card balances with bad credit.

In the last year the credit card companies have got wise to customers switching to 0% balance transfer no annual fee credit cards and simply transferring their credit card balance after 6 months. As a result you need to look beyond finding the cheapest credit card rates and look at the long term benefits and interest rates.

Some of the credit card companies are now even charging an annual handling fee but before you dismiss this you need to work out the total annual costs as some of these card suppliers actually have a better annual interest rate than others who don’t charge a handling fee but add a few percent onto their APR rates which can cost you more money in the long run.

When looking for the cheapest credit card rates you also need to consider reward credit cards such as the Capital one reward credit card which offer extra benefits that could include cash back or free travel insurance. Cash back rewards can be a good incentive for high spend credit card customers although the danger is you spend your cash back on more goods !

You should also keep an eye on your credit card statements as very often customers who enjoy the cheapest credit card rates will move onto a higher rate after 6 months and this will make a big difference in your monthly payments as your interest rates could increase by as much as 20% depending on your deal. Another thing to look out for is your balance transfer rate expiring as most companies offer a low rate for 6-9 months.

0% balance transfer no annual fee credit cards

how to transfer credit card balances with bad credit

Are your loans often left unpaid? Do you get notices from debt collectors? Do you feel trapped under your credit card debt and feel you have no place to turn? You are not alone, and opting to take a government-backed debt consolidation loan may help you become financial stable again. If you have exercised every option, consider finding a debt relief representative to discuss your financial future and the best way to get out of debt.

What is a Government-Backed Debt Consolidation Loan?

It is the process in which individuals are offered a loan through the federal government to pay off outstanding debt. They follow the same fundamental guidelines as private sector loans, but have a few minor variations. Government loans set restrictions on the type of debt that can be consolidated with each varying type of loan. Research your options carefully to know whether your debt fits the program.

Many programs are offered such as the Direct Debt Consolidation Loan Program and The Federal Family Education Loan Program. The most commonly issued government loan is for college students. These loans help students consolidate multiple student loans into one low-interest monthly payment.

What are the Advantages to Consolidating Your Liabilities?

Interest rates are normally lower than ones for individual credit loans. Combining what you owe into one low-interest monthly payment will save you a considerable amount of money over time. It also decreases the amount of money you pay creditors each month. Having one payment a month eases stress and helps you gain control over your finances.

A majority of lenders working with government programs will offer several different payment options according to your needs. Thus, you set the pace on how quickly you pay back your loans without tightening your budget.

How to Choose the Right Company.

Never go into a loan program without extensively researching your options. Finding a reputable company should be your number priority. The last thing you want is more stress over your financial situation. Be wary of companies who offer “free government grants” because often hefty processing fees and other mistrusting tactics are used.

A reputable non-profit organization will help you combine your financial liabilities through a government loan. Try to find a company that offers in-person counseling so you can sit down with a representative and review your options. Also, check references through your own banking institution, your local consumer protection agency as well as friends and family.