In the past we’ve talked about the way credit cards work, such as how paying the minimum payment due each month can lead to high overall interest payments. There’s a better way to understand this though — online calculators. When you plug in your credit card details, you can get a better idea of how you’ll personally be affected by different repayment habits.

Today let’s look at two free online credit card calculators from the Australian Securities & Investments Commission: their credit card calculator and multi-loan calculator. read more..

Home lending in Victoria withered to its lowest pace in five years in January, after interest rate rises and the end of the first home buyers assistance, and the Reserve Bank of Australia warns that buyers may be paying even higher prices for housing soon.

Last September, 835 Victorians took out mortgages on new homes, according to the Bureau of Statistics. But in January, following three consecutive rate hikes by the RBA and with the new home buyers assistance winding down, that number plunged to 525. read more..

If you’ve decided that you’re ready for a student credit card, then you’re on your way to taking on a great deal on responsibility. You know what to do when you have that responsibility — spend responsibly, pay your bills on time, and preferably pay your balance in full every month. How can you actually get your first credit card though?
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The Office of Fair Trading has successfully prosecuted the Hearts United International Consulting Services of Tweed Heads, NSW, for seven infringements of the Introduction Agents Act and misuse of client credit card details, resulting in a $20,000 fine. The case was heard in the Southport Magistrates Court last Friday. read more..

When it comes to credit card offers, low annual fees are great. Low interest rates can be even better! But do you really take advantage of your low rate credit card, or do you sometimes take that feature for granted?

Here are some ways you can get more from your low rate credit card:
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