Dangers Of Credit Cards And Unsecured Loans

Posted on September 4th, 2007 in All Articles, Credit Cards by loaninfo


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Dangers Of s And Unsecured Loans



Written by: Chris Robbins

Unsecured loans and borrowing can be expensive. interest rates are steep. Many cards offer low introductory rates for the first six months, but raise the rate thereafter. Even many of the so-called low interest s charge double-digit interest rates at a time when your bank offers only 3 percent on your savings account. Many cards charge as much as 21 percent, especially merchant s. Many charge an additional annual fee, plus service charges for cash advances.



Paying off s can take years. Most people don’t realize just how much the interest compounds over time. For example, even if you make the minimum monthly payments on a balance of $1,000 with an interest rate of 18 percent, you could be making payments for almost 10 years.



companies often grant more credit than the consumer is able repay. Although interest rates are high, s remain attractive to many borrowers because of their low required minimum monthly payment. Borrowers thus feel secure charging large amounts because they can make at least the minimum payment.



Unsecured loans, such as s, can also be very costly. s are deferred-deposit loans, whereby a lender will accept your post-dated check in exchange for cash on the spot. Fees can be very steep, often as high as 10 percent of the amount of the check. A $500 check could cost $50! Many people find themselves living paycheck to paycheck on these types of loans, and falling deeper and deeper in . Yes, they can be very convenient when used for emergencies and sparingly. Just don’t fall into a trap.



So, never charge or borrow more than you reasonably believe you can pay off within three to four months. Pay off balances as soon as possible, even if you have to use your savings to do so. Your savings earn only about 3 percent in a savings account. Your s may charge as much as 21 percent interest. If you use your savings to pay off your s, you net an 18 percent gain. So, borrow wisely and strive to be free when you retire.


About the Author: Chris Robbins is the founder of http://www.directlendingsolutions.com your source for loans and information.

Source: www.isnare.com


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