As many of us attempt to become less dependent on credit, it remains a good rule of thumb to continue to use a credit card whenever you make certain purchases. Always use a major credit card when booking flights, traveling internationally, or booking with a hotel that takes a deposit.
When Direct Air filed for bankruptcy and ceased operations in March 2012, customers were told to contact their credit card companies to seek reimbursement for tickets purchased that would not be honored. While the company wasn't honoring their obligations, the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA) gives consumers a chance to recoup their losses if they used a credit card for purchase. Customers using a debit card were out of luck.
The economic downturn has affected hotels, tour operators, and other travel-related areas of business, and if you venture to countries that have less stability in financial infrastructure, you stand to lose it all if you've traveled using a debit card.
Sources: Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission
"Direct Air under fire as it files for bankruptcy," USA Today, March 20, 2012
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Friday, May 18, 2012
Free Annual Pass for Active Duty Military
Dusty buffalo at Yellowstone Photo credit: pdell from morguefile.com
Beginning May 19, 2012, active duty military personnel can obtain a free annual national parks pass. The pass covers either those your in your vehicle or the pass holder and 3 additional persons 16 or older. (15 and younger are admitted at no charge.)
You may obtain your pass at any national parks entrance where fees are charged and the pass will last through the last day of the month a year after it is obtained.
For more more info: http://www.store.usgs.gov/pass/military.html.
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