Know Your Rights When Using A Credit Card

Using Your Credit Card Online

The implementation of the 1975 Consumer Credit Act has provided credit card holders with a substantial amount of protection when it comes to online shopping. It is important to understand your rights and the Act itself, in particular Section 75, so that you can enforce this Act in the event that you become a victim of a scam or a breach of contract.

Using Your Credit Card Abroad

Under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, your credit card company is just as liable as the retailer if you purchase a product that is faulty, misrepresented or non existent. In these cases you will have to inform the credit provider of the situation and you should be reimbursed for the amount that you spent on the item. You will need to be careful, however, as there are certain cases where you might not be able to claim at all and this is why you need to understand your rights and ensure that you are protected no matter where you choose to use your credit card.

Using Your Store Card

Store cards are usually offered at the tills of a store and it only takes a few minutes for the application form to be filled out, submitted and accepted. Many people are drawn into signing up for store cards (which can only be used within a particular store or a handful of associated stores) because retailers tend to offer discounts on items that are purchased directly after receiving the card but one this initial purchase has been made, store card owners will go back to paying exactly the same amount as everyone else.