Today I received the following letter from a recent college graduate. After reading it, there was no doubt in my mind that every minute I devote to helping people, especially young adults, to maintain good credit is worth it. Thanks, Jillian, for the inspiration and encouragement to continue this blog.
Dear Mr. Kevin D. Johnson,
I haven't yet had the pleasure of
meeting you so please let me introduce myself. My name is Jillian. I just wanted to say thank you for your website
NewCreditRules.com.
I have yet to ever apply for a credit
card for fear of losing the game to unwritten rules. As a first
generation college student, I did not have the privilege of financial
knowledge nor assistance from my family. I worked full-time to support
myself and my collegiate career while avoiding credit cards like the
plague. Now I'm a recent graduate embarking on the real world realizing
what many already knew, credit was a 'necessary evil'. Banks and credit
companies are very friendly in giving you limited information (key word:
limited), but thanks to your website I'm able to start off on the right
foot in the credit world with the knowledge and "know-how" to protect
myself and my family.
It may seem odd, but just know that your efforts and actions are greatly appreciated.
Warm thanks, -Jillian "Credit Freshman"
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Greetings! I’m Kevin D. Johnson, a business owner who has recently assumed the role of consumer advocate and internet activist. Atlanta, Georgia is my home.
My Story
Upon returning from my wonderful honeymoon in Jamaica in October 2008, I received what I thought was an ordinary American Express bill, but to my surprise it was a disappointing letter informing me that my credit line was reduced by about 65% for a highly suspicious and discriminatory reason. Considering my excellent credit score and pristine payment history, it just didn’t make sense. However, what does make sense are the unfair and insidious policies that I have uncovered when asking why. It is time to change them.
Good Morning America tells my story.
The Goal
I created this web site to document and share my challenging journey to change what is wrong, unfair, and unjust in the credit card industry. The ultimate goal of this web site is to inform consumers of ways to stand up for themselves against treacherous business practices and to educate consumers about how to improve their credit. Finally, I hope to encourage a more open dialogue with credit card companies about their policies–good and bad.
Success
I am proud to say that this blog's unyielding demand for change led to an important amendment in the final Credit CARD Act signed by President Obama on May 22, 2009. Despite this major accomplishment, there is still more work to be done.
Testifying at a bill hearing in Annapolis, Maryland
Speaking Engagements
In an effort to educate as many people as possible about financial management, especially about how to manage the current credit crisis, I have begun to speak around the country at colleges, universities, corporations, chamber of commerce meetings, congressional hearings, trade organization meetings, etc. Having acquired a wealth of information that will help to empower people and to improve their financial future, I feel that sharing this information is the least I can do to make a positive impact. For information on my availability for speaking opportunities, please send an e-mail to Jennifer Silverman at jennifer@silvermanworldwide.com.
Speaking at a university
Disclaimer
All information provided on NewCreditRules.com is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for professional financial advice. Information on NewCreditRules.com is subject to change without prior notice. Although every reasonable effort is made to present current and accurate information, NewCreditRules.com makes no guarantees of any kind. This web site may contain information that is created and maintained by a variety of sources both internal and external. These sites are unmoderated forums containing the personal opinions and other expressions of the persons who post the entries. NewCreditRules.com does not control, monitor or guarantee the information contained in these sites or information contained in links to other external web sites, and does not endorse any views expressed or products or services offered therein. In no event shall NewCreditRules.com be responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on any such content, goods, or services available on or through any such site or resource.
This is great, Kevin. Keep up the great work!
Posted by: Sarah K. | August 23, 2010 at 05:07 PM