Listed below are links to information provided by the Federal Trade Commission relating to credit and credit protection for consumers.

Click on the title of any topic to get more information from the FTC or download the PDF version.

	A Consumer's Guide to E-Payments [PDF version] Describes online payment technologies and how to make your transactions as secure as possible.
	Avoiding Credit and Charge Card Fraud [PDF version] Steps to make it more difficult for a crook to capture your card or card numbers, and how to report losses and fraud.
	Before You File for Personal Bankruptcy: Information About Credit Counseling and Debtor Education [PDF version]
	Billed for Merchandise You Never Received? [PDF version] Explains your rights and steps to take to correct the problem. Includes a sample dispute letter.
	Buying, Giving, and Using Gift Cards [PDF version] What to look for when buying and using gift cards, especially the terms and conditions of their use.
	Check 21: Substitute Checks, Electronic Processing and What It Means to You [PDF version] By law, your paper checks can be replaced with copies called "substitute checks" or other electronic items.
	Choosing and Using Credit Cards [PDF version] Explains credit card terms, how your balance is computed, and how to shop for the best deal. Outlines cardholder protections.
	Cosigning a Loan [PDF version] Lists your obligations if you decide to cosign on a loan for a friend or relative. At the top of the list: you may have to pay up to the full amount of the debt if the borrower does not pay.
	Credit, ATM and Debit Cards: What To Do If They’re Lost or Stolen [PDF version] Outlines procedures for reporting loss or theft, and how to minimize your risk.
	Credit and Divorce [PDF version] Encourages recently divorced consumers, and those contemplating divorce, to look closely at issues involving credit. Understanding the different kinds of credit accounts opened during a marriage may help illuminate the potential benefits – and pitfalls – of each.
	Credit and Debit Card Blocking [PDF version] Blocking often occurs when you use a credit or debit card to check into a hotel or rent a car. The clerk usually contacts the company that issued your card to give an estimated total. If the transaction is approved, your available credit (credit card) or the balance in your bank account (debit card) is reduced by this amount. Learn why blocking may be a problem, and how to avoid it.
	Credit and Your Consumer Rights [PDF version] Explains credit laws that protect your right to obtain, use, and maintain credit. Offers practical tips to help you solve credit problems.
	Credit Card Loss Protection Offers [PDF version] Since your liability for unauthorized charges is limited to $50, there’s no need to buy loss protection insurance.
	Credit Insurance: Is It For You? [PDF version] Helps borrowers decide if credit insurance, which is usually optional, is right for them. Explains the four main types of credit insurance and offers shopping tips.
	The Credit Practices Rule [PDF version] The Rule prohibits many creditors from including certain provisions in consumer credit contracts. It also requires creditors to provide a written notice to consumers before they cosign obligations for others about their potential liability if the other person fails to pay.
	Electronic Check Conversion [PDF version] Explains how electronic check conversion works. Offers tips on keeping close tabs on your accounts.
	Equal Credit Opportunity [PDF version] The Equal Credit Opportunity Act prohibits the denial of credit because of your sex, race, marital status, religion, national origin, age, or because you receive public assistance.
	Fair Credit Billing [PDF version] The Fair Credit Billing Act establishes procedures for resolving billing errors on your credit card accounts. Includes sample dispute letter.