Take Charge Of Your Credit Cards

Be smart - don't let anyone pull a fast one. Check to see you've been given back your card once you've paid for what you bought.  When you accept your credit card make sure it’s the one you gave them.

• You've got to be smart if you shop by phone. Get the facts. Make sure the guy on the phone is legit. And if you have a question, ask before giving your credit card number to anyone.
   
• Watch your credit card slip being filled out - and make sure it's not passed through the machine more than once. Ask for your carbons.
   
• Destroy the carbons, but keep your credit card receipts and check them against monthly bills.
   
• Destroy every credit card that's out of date. Cut it in half. Throw it away. Get rid of it.
   
• Make a list ofyour major credit cards, their account numbers and the phone numbers to call if cards are lost.
   
• If you get ripped off, or just lose track of any credit card, call your bank fast.

You also want to make sure that when you accept a credit card from a credit card company you are getting the credit card you want and need. A credit card company can say that they are giving you the best credit card, but even if for them it is the best credit card, it may not be for you.