Credit Card ACT

Where Does Your Spouse's Credit Card Debt Go When They Die?

When a husband or wife dies, it's not just the emotional issues that can be overwhelming; the financial issues can be, too. Here are three important financial actions no widow or widower should delay taking -- and the answer to the pressing question in the headline above.

Buyers Beware: Business Credit Cards Are a Bad Deal

When the Credit CARD Act of 2009 was enacted, the goal was to make credit cards safer for people, but banks have found a loophole. Those consumer protections weren't extended to cards designated for business or commercial use, and as a result, millions of American households are at risk from the same unfair bank practices as before.

Bank Overdraft Fees Still Plague American Consumers

Last year, the government changed the rules on debit card overdrafts, requiring banks to get customers' permission before allowing transactions that would lead to penalty fees. But despite the new rules, overdraft fees continue to be an expensive pain in the neck for millions of Americans.

BofA to Stick Customers With 30% Late Fee

Bank of America credit card holders, beware. If you're late on a monthly payment, that little "oops" might become a big "ouch": Your future balances could be subject to a penalty rate of nearly 30%. But the penalty rate will not be applied to previous balances.

Goodbye, Free Checking; Hello, New Bank Fees

The era of free checking accounts is coming to an end. Many consumers will face an extra $144 a year in account fees, plus higher dues for their debit cars, and increased ATM charges, too. It's all part of a banking industry backlash against last year's consumer friendly financial reforms.

Credit CARD Act: One Year Later, How's It Going?

During the battle over Credit CARD Act, much talk focused on what the legislation would -- and wouldn't -- do. A year after the law rolled out, what's the word now? Here's an on-the-ground look at how card issuers and consumers are adapting to the new landscape.

Smaller Loan Losses Lift Bank Earnings

Bank of America, Citi and JPMorgan Chase beat earnings projections, despite a drop in investment banking and trading income. Results were buoyed by lower losses on loans and credit cards and resulting cuts in loan reserves.