Financing Your New Or Used CarWritten by John Mussi
If you decide to finance your car, be aware that financing obtained by dealer, even if dealer contacts lenders on your behalf, may not be best deal you can get. Contact lenders directly. Compare financing they offer you with financing dealer offers you. Because offers vary, shop around for best deal, comparing annual percentage rate (APR) and length of loan. When negotiating to finance a car, be wary of focusing only on monthly payment. The total amount you will pay depends on price of car you negotiate, APR, and length of loan. Sometimes, dealers offer very low financing rates for specific cars or models, but may not be willing to negotiate on price of these cars. To qualify for special rates, you may be required to make a large down payment. With these conditions, you may find that it’s sometimes more affordable to pay higher financing charges on a car that is lower in price or to buy a car that requires a smaller down payment. Before you sign a contract to purchase or finance car, consider terms of financing and evaluate whether it is affordable. Some dealers and lenders may ask you to buy credit insurance to pay off your loan if you should die or become disabled. Before you buy credit insurance, consider cost, and whether it’s worthwhile. Check your existing policies to avoid duplicating benefits
| | Useful Tips On Avoiding Credit and Charge Card FraudWritten by John Mussi
Credit and charge card fraud costs cardholders and issuers hundreds of millions of dollars each year. While theft is most obvious form of fraud, it can occur in other ways. For example, someone may use your card number without your knowledge. It's not always possible to prevent credit or charge card fraud from happening. But there are a few steps you can take to make it more difficult for a crook to capture your card or card numbers and minimize possibility. Do: Sign your cards as soon as they arrive. Carry your cards separately from your wallet, in a zippered compartment, a business card holder, or another small pouch. Keep a record of your account numbers, their expiration dates, and phone number and address of each company in a secure place. Keep an eye on your card during transaction, and get it back as quickly as possible. Void incorrect receipts. Destroy carbons. Save receipts to compare with billing statements.
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