The government has announced new legislation aimed at tackling credit card debt. There are several measures which will be welcomed by consumers:
- An end to adverse order of payments
- More control over credit limits for individuals
- Easier comparison of credit card deals
- Clearer information on increased interest rates/credit limits
The "adverse order of payments" is the way credit card companies apply repayments to the portion of the debt attracting the lowest interest rate in order to maximise the interest they receive from the higher interest rates. For instance, if you transfer a balance to a new card with a 0% interest rate and then start shopping with an interest rate of 10.9% on every purchase if you make the minimum payment each month it will be used to pay off the 0% debt first with interest continuing at 10.9% on your purchases. The new legislation will require payments to be apportioned to the highest rate of interest first, thus minimising the amount of interest accruing each month.
Credit card companies will no longer be able to increase credit limits without prior customer approval. Customers will have the right to reject credit limit increases and reduce their credit limits when they want. They will also have clearer information provided regarding increases in interest rates, and annual statements allowing them to compare credit cards more easily.
The legislation has been agreed with credit card companies and will likely be fully implemented by the end of 2010. In the meantime if you are struggling with credit card debt, or any type of debt, you need to tackle it sooner rather than later.
IVA Debt Problem can guide you through all of your options and help you find the best way forward. Their debt solutions offer you the most effective ways of reducing your debts and getting back on your feet.
Information is available on debt management, debt consolidation, IVAs and more. There is a handy debt helpline to call if you would like to discuss your options, and an easy to complete online enquiry form.
IMPORTANT: If you are struggling with debt don't bury your head in the sand and hope it will go away or sort itself out. It won't and avoiding the subject will only lead to more debt and more problems. Get debt help and advice as soon as you can.