Never give out your credit card number over the phone except to a catalog company that you know and call voluntarily.

Carefully consider your income when applying for credit cards. One credit card may suit your needs.

If the bank where you have your checking/savings account offers a credit card, consider that card as well.

Save your receipts and check them against your monthly statement.

Don't send money or a credit card number for "fees" to enter any contest.

If you choose to apply for a credit card through the mail, have another person review the terms of the offer with you.

Credit card numbers are never needed for identification purposes when paying for something by check.

Don't give personal information when using a credit card in a store. Addresses, phone numbers, and/or a license number are not required.

Keep or rip up credit card carbons.

Report lost credit cards immediately.

Never sign a blank receipt. Make sure the correct amount is written on it.

Print version and web version of A Consumer Pocket Guide made possible thanks to a grant from VISA USA

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