Regulators with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency began pressuring card issuers to raise minimum monthly payments. The new law for minimum payments went into effect at the end of 2005, and several credit card companies have already doubled their minimum monthly payments from 2% to 4%. If you are a homeowner, you may want to consider a debt consolidation loan through a mortgage refinance or home equity loan (second mortgage) because it will not only reduce your debt, but you also may get a 100% tax deduction on the interest you pay on your loan.

Credit card debt damages the average American's credit due to its consequences. The missed payment and default ratio on credit card debt is increasing at disturbing rates...

Recent statistics estimate consumers carry nearly $2 trillion in consumer debt, with approximately $8,500 dollars serviced by each American citizen, and over $50 billion dollars in annual finance charges paid (which does not include home mortgages). With all of this credit, 22% of us do not qualify for credit cards, and approximately 1.5 million cardholders declare bankruptcy annually. While the numbers appear frightening, credit is a powerful tool, which when used properly, enables consumers to enjoy online transactions, travel, and even investing.

These days when more and more people are approaching some or the other debt consolidation company for consolidating their credit card and other unsecured debts, there has been a mushrooming of many debt consolidation companies. No doubt, there any numerous genuine companies who offer ethical debt consolidation programs and are interested in getting you out of the debt trap. But there are many operators who under the garb of a genuine debt consolidation company can add to your problems by charging you hefty fee and still doing nothing to get you out of the debt trap.

Debt collectors can be extremely persistent - and extremely bothersome. Find out some simple ways of getting rid of debt collectors and their constant pestering.

Debt management help means your looking for a reduced monthly payment towards your debts so that you can clear debts easily. There are many companies offering debt management help. They take full charge of your debt problems and negotiate with your creditors. Read the article for more.

If your plans for the near future include eliminating debt, then you should consider switching to a low or zero interest rate credit card. Find out how it can save you money.

Many people who file bankruptcy make the mistake of doing so without fully exploring their options, and never realize they have other, more viable choices that will allow them to preserve their credit standing. Know that you have options for getting out of debt, and explore them fully. The key is finding the right solution for you.