Tips to help prevent Losing your Credit Cards

The following tips can help you avoid a worst-case situation if you lose your credit card and may even stop you from losing your credit card altogether: • When travelling overseas, it's worth storing any additional credit cards in a safe and separate location. Carry any relevant emergency contact details and be aware of any procedures so you can act accordingly. In some cases, credit card providers will have a courier service or may be able to wire emergency funds to your account. • It's worth keeping a list of contents of all important cards you keep in your wallet or purse. Include contact numbers and store the list separate from where you keep your cards. If you do lose your purse or wallet, it's easier to cancel all credit cards and important documents. • Only carry the credit cards you need. Leave the others at home, and you will most likely save money as well. • Go to the MasterCard, Visa or American Express websites & record the emergency contact number for the country you are visiting. If you lose your card in that country, you can use this number to cancel your card and obtain a replacement. Financial institutions displaying a MasterCard or Visa logo may also be able to help. • Dispose of old credit cards or account statements thoughtfully. It's worthwhile destroying a credit card or paper statements before trashing them in the bin so they don't fall into the wrong hands. rnLost or Stolen Credit Card ChecklistrnIf your credit card is stolen or lost, follow these easy steps to keep away from trouble: • Make contact with your financial institution straight away. The faster you can contact your chosen credit card provider, the less chance there is someone can use it for deceitful purposes. You will receive a stand-in card sooner too. •Have your account details prepared, including details of the last identified transaction (if you can bear in mind). This will help your bank track any illicit activity and protect you from con. • Consider writing down the name of the person you speak to on the phone, or even sending a letter. If there are any future unauthorized transactions or disputes, this information may help. • Monitor future transactions and report any discrepancies in case someone tries to use your credit card for identity fraud purposes. • Remember to redirect any automatic direct debits to your new credit card. Recommendations and What to Watch Out ForrnWhen choosing a credit card, always select one that best suits your standard of living. Whether you are a steady traveler who is paying attention in travel discounts and global travel clubs with a range of perks and privileges, a housewife who is buying furniture and appliances for her new home, a businessman who's setting up his first start-up business, or someone with bad credit who wants to perk up his rating by completing his payments on a low-rate card, there is a credit card waiting for you! Pick the card that best suits your fancy. • Unique Benefits: Every credit card is unique, and some of them are specialized to suit your needs. Aside from the examples above, there are also credit card explicitly used for gas that rewards you on your auto expenses or a credit card that encourages shopping and department store purchases. • Low Interest Rate Credit Card Advantages: Low interest rate cards (particularly on balance transfers) will let a few with a balance credit card debt to fix his credit woes, put a stop to new charges, and earn back the trust of lenders and financial institutions everywhere. • No Annual Fees and a Rewards Program: If your balance requires monthly payment, you should look for a credit card that lacks annual fees and offers a solid cash rewards program in order to make the most of your savings and ensure the completion of your monthly payment without the hassle of extra fees.