Smart Credit Card Purchases

There are many excellent reasons to use a credit card to purchase goods or services. Here are several:

Withhold Payment:
The federal Fair Credit Billing Act allows you to withhold payment on any damaged or poor-quality goods or services purchased with a credit card--even if you have  accepted the goods or services--as long as you have made an attempt to solve the problem with the merchant.

The sale must have been for more than $50 and must have taken place in your home state or within 100 miles of your home address. You should notify the credit card company in writing and explain why you are withholding your payment.

You may withhold the payment while the credit card company investigates your claim. If you pay the charges for the goods on your credit card bill before the dispute is resolved, you will lose your right to make a claim.

Shopping:
Many consumers rely on their credit cards for safety, convenience and flexibility when purchasing gifts and paying for other expenses.  Carrying a card is much easier than carrying around a roll of 100’s.

Traveling:
Due to increased security measures, traveling is more hectic now than ever. With this in mind your credit card companies have developed useful tips and guidelines to help travelers use their credit cards safely while traveling and to protect themselves from credit fraud and identity theft year-round.  Just check on their web sites.  A few tips include:

• Carry only the personal information absolutely necessary for your trip, such as a passport or driver's license.  The less personal information you have with you, the better off you will be if your purse or wallet is stolen. Always keep copies of these important documents in a separate part of your luggage, such as a carry-on bag.
   
• Keep your cards on your person.  Most travel stores carry small bags in which you can keep cards, cash, and other items you will need to access while out and about.