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- cross-posted to:
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Americans’ credit card debt levels have just notched a new, but undesirable, milestone: For the first time ever, they’ve surpassed $1 trillion, according to data released Tuesday by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
I admittedly haven’t looked at the article, but they are likely measuring based of a fixed snapshot in time, which tells you zero about the actual debt.
Example: at any given point in the month I have 5 figures of CC debt, but I always pay every card in full each month (I never carry a balance) and have enough money to zero everything out if something happens. Because of this it looks like I have high debt load when I really don’t. I do this because it simplifies payments, allows me to collect rewards, keeps my bank account/debit card out of mainstream use (which helps prevent my account info from getting stolen/misused) and allows cash to stay in my accounts just a bit longer earning that sweet 5% interest.
That being said, not everyone does that and many folks are likely in over their head.
Debt to income ratio is key. However, I believe that parameter would be more difficult to estimate.
Where are you getting 5% interest?!?
Ally is at 4.25% straight up saving account Vanguard Treasury Money Market VUXSS is at 5.15% right now.
There are a few online only banks that are above 5% also.
When you already have a bunch of money you get higher rewards and pay lower interest so your money flows through their balance sheets.
You don’t pay amy interest if you pay in full within 30 days of the statement date.