Steve Dowell

On the heels of the announcement by credit card processor Global Payments, Inc. that hackers had broken into its computer system and stolen account numbers and other customer information, credit card company Visa, Inc. delivered another blow. Citing Global Payments' non-compliance with industry standards for security of confidential customer information, Visa removed the company from its lengthy list of authorized credit card processors.

Whether you are a new business owner trying to figure out if your business idea will be profitable – or you're an existing business with low sales volume, you're in need of extremely affordable credit card processing.

Many people become consultants or independent contractors of a home-party, direct sales company as their primary source of income or to supplement their family income. These companies allow individuals to become independent business owners, selling products or services primarily through home parties. They ask friends and family to "host" a party in their homes, inviting people over to sample goodies, view products and shop from a catalog.

There was an estimated average of 6.7 overdrafts per household in 2011, according to a study by Moebs Services. It's a good thing overdrafts don't directly affect credit since checking account information isn't reported to the credit bureaus. But, even though credit bureaus aren't notified when you bounce a check, overspending your checking account could still hurt your chances at getting approved for a credit card or loan.

Zero-interest credit cards hold a lot of interest by consumers looking for the best credit card deal when they want to apply for a new credit card. Interest-free credit cards translate to purchases without additional finance charges and that can certainly help you save money.

Earlier this month charges were filed against four Pennsylvania men who have been running a brazen credit card scam for the past three years. Their targets were unsuspecting consumers who had recently applied for short term pay day loans. Those who could least afford to lose money were found to be the easiest targets because of their stressful financial situations.

If you are intrigued by a new offer you received from a credit card provider and are considering applying for a new credit card, be sure you are fully aware of the terms and conditions first. While promotional offers can sound ideal for your financial situation, the reality of the card requirements after the promotional time expires can be an entirely different story.

If you are thinking about a dropshipping business, you will need a method to accept credit card payments from your customers. There are a few different options for credit card processing by dropshipping businesses owners. Here's what you need to know about accepting payments as a dropshipper:

There have been many recent law changes regarding the way credit card billing statements are structured and how consumer credit histories are explained. These changes came about after too many consumers complained of confusion about the information they were receiving. Complaints often involved not being able to understand the way things were being outlined in billing statements but many consumer complaints stem from the initial credit card agreement.

As a business owner it's important to keep up with the latest tax laws. One new one for this year involves credit card processing and merchant accounts. This new IRS code only applies to businesses that accept merchant payment cards – Visa, Master Card, and the like.