Are your having trouble making ends meet? In today's American households we are feeling the continued squeeze of tightening credit markets. We do not have to be told by Washington, DC that the economy is slowing and the costs are rising. The pain America is feeling is not being felt in Washington, DC by our political party friends. It doesn't matter how hard we squeeze the gas nozzle as the fuel prices continue their upward spiral - but we have to work. It doesn't matter that going to the grocery store has become so painful that we have begun to cut out name brands and resisted buying things we really don't need - but we have to eat.

If this is a story that you can relate to then read on.

Today is more about surviving then thriving. More about hanging in there than getting ahead. Credit cards have become a major part of our lifestyle. It doesn't matter whether you have a cash back credit card, a reward card or low interest card. The fact is today we need our credit cards to survive. We even teach our children about credit cards and feel proud when they get their very first credit card which is usually a student card or maybe a prepaid credit card.

We have all spent a good deal of time - going from one credit card offer to another to compare them. Do we choose cash back or rewards, how about low interest or no annual fee. There are alot of choices and many more card types today. But one thing remains constant and that is how you pay your credit card bill. Paying your credit card bill has become a game with the credit card companies. You now can expect a different bill due date each month among other troubling changes.

During the early 1950's credit risk assessments were made based upon things such as a persons character, length of time in the community and work history. Generally the decision was made by your local banker. Today things are much different - you are a number. That number either passes or fails the creditor computer standards. No longer are we judged by humans. No longer are extenuating circumstances such as major medical illness, or death of a spouse taken into account. Your number either passes or fails. It is as simple as that.

There are many things you need to know today to protect yourself and to gain the knowledge of how to compete in the tighten credit markets that will be with us for some time. If you would like to learn more about what you can do to improve your credit score subscribe to my free email newsletter. You will have access to different techniques and solutions to credit issues in our ever changing world. Visit http://www.ipodiums.net/members/creditcards/LCTP123.html You will also receive monthly tips in how to wind the credit card game. Tip #1 is always pay at least your minimum payment 1 day before the date the bill is due.

Looking forward to helping you obtain your credit goals,

Sandy Morris

Bio - Sandy has been involved in the credit industry for the past 15 years. She has worked with people in all walks of life to help improve their credit picture and financial well being. Currently she provides consultation for credit, mortgage solutions and in her spare time helps with a gifting program. Helping others is her passion.