Chase Blueprint Presents the Resource Center for Mindful Spending

As more optimism sets in concerning consumer finances, Chase Blueprint releases its new initiative aimed at helping consumers reinforce positive spending habits.  The Resource Center for Mindful Spending was unveiled at Washington Post Live’s “Kitchen Table Economics” forum and is focused on helping customers take steps toward a better financial future.  The new initiative comes… Continue reading Chase Blueprint Presents the Resource Center for Mindful Spending

Consumers Turning to Prepaid Debit Cards Now More Than Ever

With tighter consumer regulations and the low-interest rate environment, banks have had to find new and innovative ways to make a profit. This led to higher fees and the end of “free checking” in some cases.  This move caused many consumers to avoid bank accounts altogether.  According to the October 2011 report “Still Risky:  Bank… Continue reading Consumers Turning to Prepaid Debit Cards Now More Than Ever

Debit Cards: A Growing Threat to the Banking Industry

With ease of use and widespread availability, debit cards are becoming a growing threat to the banking industry.  Last year, prepaid debit card usage was up 18% while checking account usage plummeted from 92% to 88%.  While users avoid overdraft fees, debit cards are not cheaper than checking accounts. Incidentally, scores of users walked away… Continue reading Debit Cards: A Growing Threat to the Banking Industry

Experian Reporting Rental Payments on Credit Reports

In times past, the only time rental history would show up on a credit report was when a property management company would turn it over for collections.  But in December 2010, that all changed when Experian became the first credit bureau reporting rental payments on consumer credit reports.  Not only is this is great news… Continue reading Experian Reporting Rental Payments on Credit Reports

Pros and Cons of Prepaid Debit Cards

Don’t believe the hype about prepaid cards. But don’t believe the doomsayers, either We live in a world of incessant hyperbole. The latest version of the iPhone? Best invention ever. The current members of Congress? The most corrupt and feckless in history. And let’s face it, advertising and promotion is based largely on inflated claims… Continue reading Pros and Cons of Prepaid Debit Cards

Dave Ramsey Chimes In On The Rise of the Prepaid Debit Card

One would only need to turn on their television to know that prepaid debit cards are on the rise.  Added to the mix is a growing crop of celebrities endorsing one card or the other.  Prepaid Debit cards are popping up everywhere with uses ranging from tax returns to IRAs, but so are the fees… Continue reading Dave Ramsey Chimes In On The Rise of the Prepaid Debit Card

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